Meanwhile, a grand dinner was happening at Newcove's Lyre Hotel.
Newcove's mayor, Mueller, was busy greeting Nathan and Penny with some big shots and politicians from the city.
Nathan briefly returned their greetings before finding a quiet spot to have a drink and a chat with Mueller.
Before Mueller became the mayor of Newcove, he had served in the military.
He had almost lost his life during a terrorist attack at an international military convention, where he had led a troop from Ariarica.
Back then, Nathan had represented Eurasia at the same military convention.
Nathan had saved Mueller's life, and that was how their friendship began.
It was also the reason Nathan was treated like royalty during his visit to Newcove.
Mueller smiled at Nathan and said, “Mr. Cross, so many things have changed in recent years. I didn't know you would become Commander-In-
Chief of the North Army and now the president of Eurasia.”
Returning his smile, Nathan replied, “You're not doing too shabby yourself. You were just a colonel back then, but now you're the mayor of Newcove.”
That drew a bout of laughter from Mueller. “Well, I was voted mayor by the residents of Newcove.”
“The Eurasian people voted for me too,” came Nathan's response.
They both laughed for a good while before Mueller turned serious and said, “I've never forgotten how you saved my life, Mr. Cross. Now that you're finally in Newcove, please don’t hesitate to let me know if you need anything during your stay in our city. As long as it's not illegal or harmful to our country, I'll do my best to fulfill your request.”
After hearing his kind words, Nathan raised his glass and sipped some wine before replying, “In that case, I'll go straight to the point, Mueller. Frankly, I do need your favor on a matter.”
Mueller was taken aback by Nathan's reply.
His earlier words had been more of a formality than anything else.
After all, Nathan was the president of a country, and he undoubtedly had everything he desired at his fingertips. He hardly needed the help of someone as inconsequential as the mayor of Newcove.
To his utter shock, Nathan did have a favor to ask, and Mueller's guard immediately went up.
Cautiously, Mueller stated, “Mr. Cross, what do you need my help with?
“I was bracing myself for a Herculean task. I didn't know you just wanted me to look for someone.”
Then, Mueller summoned a subordinate and instructed him to collect Lothar's personal information from Kraven in preparation for an extensive investigation.
Mueller’s subordinate arrived and quickly led Kraven away.
After that, Mueller smiled at Nathan and promised, “Don't worry, Mr. Cross. My subordinate will record all relevant personal information about your master, including his physical appearance. I'll tap my connections to find your master. I've still got a wide network in Ariarica, so I'm sure we'll get some news on his whereabouts soon, and I'll keep you posted on the developments.”
Relieved, Nathan shot him a smile and said, “Then let me thank you in advance, Mueller. Please accept this toast as an expression of my gratitude.”
Mueller hurriedly raised his glass. “Sure. Let's toast!”
They emptied their glasses just as Colin rushed over, a grave expression on his face.
He held a phone in his hand and whispered to Nathan, “There has been bad news, President Cross. Ava's in trouble.”
Nathan's expression instantly darkened.
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