Yoshida laughed. He turned back to Max's mother.
"But truly, Mrs. Thorne, you should be proud. Your son has earned a place in one of the most competitive guilds in the world on pure skill. No family connections, no purchased advantages—just talent. That's admirable."
"Thank you," Yuki said softly. "I am proud of him."
"As you should be." Yoshida clapped Max's shoulder. "Take care of your mother, young man. And keep up the good work in Phoenix. Kaito tells me you're something special."
"I'll do my best, sir."
Other introductions followed. CEO Ishida came over to discuss the economics of virtual item trading. Minister Nakamura asked Max about class mechanics with genuine curiosity. Several other prominent figures made polite conversation, treating Max and his mother not as outsiders but as legitimate members of this elite circle.
Through it all, Max kept catching glimpses of the younger generation—people his age or slightly older, all carrying themselves with the confidence that came from privilege and power. They were friendly but assessing him, clearly wondering if he truly belonged here or was just a temporary oddity.
Velara stayed close, smoothly navigating the social dynamics, making introductions, ensuring they never felt isolated or overwhelmed.
After about thirty minutes, Kaito pulled Max aside while Ayame engaged his mother in conversation.
"How are you holding up?" Kaito asked quietly.
"Honestly? I feel like I'm in a fever dream," Max admitted.
Kaito laughed. "That's normal. This is a lot to take in—I get it. But here's the thing, Max: everyone in this room started somewhere. Yes, many of us were born into privilege, but that doesn't automatically make us good at the game. You earned your spot through skill. Don't let the setting intimidate you."
"Your father is the Prime Minister," Max said. "How am I supposed to not be intimidated?"
"Fair point," Kaito conceded. "But in the game? He's just another player. Level 31 Paladin, decent gear, mediocre DPS. I love him, but he's not carrying any raids." He grinned. "Out here, he's the most powerful person in Japan. In Aetheria? You could probably beat him in a duel."
That perspective helped. "Thanks."
"Besides," Kaito added, "did you see him hitting on your mom? The man has no shame. We're all suffering from secondhand embarrassment."
Max laughed. "It was pretty blatant."
"He does this at every event. Harmless flirting with attractive women to horrify his children. It's a tradition at this point." Kaito shook his head fondly. "But seriously, Max—you and your mother fit here. Don't doubt that."
Across the room, Prime Minister Yoshida had somehow maneuvered back to Max's mother, continuing his playful conversation. Yuki was laughing at something he said, clearly more relaxed now.
Finance Minister Takahashi joined Max and Kaito, shaking his head. "He's unbelievable."
"Runs in the family," Ayame said, walking over with Velara. "We're all unbelievable in our own ways."
"Speaking of which," Velara said to Max, "want to see the guild's private trading room? It's where we handle all the big-ticket transactions. Might be useful for when you start selling higher-tier loot."
"Sure," Max said.
Velara turned to his mother. "Mrs. Thorne, would you like to join us, or would you prefer to stay here? I promise my father and the Prime Minister will behave themselves."
"I make no such promise," Yoshida called out, clearly having overheard.
Yuki laughed. "I'll stay here. You kids go ahead."
As Max and Velara headed toward a side door, Max glanced back to see his mother—a hospital nurse who worked night shifts—sitting at a table with the Prime Minister of Japan and several of the country's most powerful figures, engaged in lovely conversation.
His life had become completely surreal.
"Your mom's handling this well," Velara commented as they walked down a private corridor.
"Better than me, honestly."
"She's got a good energy. My father likes her—said she's 'refreshingly genuine' compared to most people he meets at political functions."
"And your father is friends with the Prime Minister."
"They've known each other for decades. Went to university together. That's how Phoenix Guild happened—our families are close."
Velara paused at a secure door, scanning her credentials. "This is the reality of elite gaming guilds now, Max. It's not just about being good at the game. It's about networks, connections, and navigating social hierarchies."
"I'm way out of my depth," Max admitted.
"Everyone is, at first." The door opened, revealing a trading room with multiple computer stations, secure terminals, and what looked like a bank vault in the back.
"But you'll adapt. You're smart, skilled, and you have something unique going on with your class. That gives you value that transcends social status."
Max looked at her, the daughter of Finance Minister, beautiful and radiant. "Why are you helping me?" he asked. "Seriously. You could recruit anyone."
Velara met his eyes. "Because you earned your spot. And in a world full of people who bought their way in, that matters." She smiled. "Plus. I am interested in you."
Before Max could respond, his phone buzzed. A message from his mother:
Mom:The Prime Minister just offered me a job as the guild's "official mom" to make sure all you kids eat properly and get enough sleep. I think he's joking but I'm not entirely sure.
Max showed Velara the message.
She burst out laughing. "Oh my god, he's absolutely serious. He does this—finds people he likes and tries to recruit them into his circle. Your mom just got adopted by the Prime Minister of Japan."
"This is insane."
"Get used to the insanity."
Velara led Max to one of the trading stations—a setup that looked more like a high-end bank terminal than anything related to gaming.
Behind the station sat a professional-looking woman in her late twenties, wearing a business suit with the Phoenix logo embroidered on the chest. Her hair was pulled back in a neat bun, and she had the air of someone who handled serious financial transactions daily.
When she saw Velara approach with Max, she immediately stood and bowed deeply.
"Miss Takahashi, welcome," she said. Then she turned to Max, and to his surprise, bowed to him as well. "Mr. Thorne, it's an honor to meet you. I'm Mizuki Sato, one of Phoenix Guild's financial coordinators."
"Just Max is fine," Max said, slightly uncomfortable with the formality.
"Of course, Sir Max," Mizuki said, gesturing to the chair in front of her station. "Please, have a seat. Miss Takahashi mentioned you would be completing your guild registration today."