Kenji led Lina into the main hall. At that moment, most guests were still raising their glasses and hadn't noticed her arrival. Soon, though, a small group realized there was an extra face at their banquet—and one they clearly disliked. Their stares were anything but friendly. Lina didn't pay them much mind, but being watched so intently while eating felt uncomfortable.
"Ignore them. Come eat," Kenji said. He sat at his place, then pulled a chair over and set it beside him for Lina. He also told the maids to move her bowl and chopsticks to his side.
