Katya's messenger and Vero's arrival seemed almost coordinated, to Komer's surprise.
Vero's arrival was somewhat unexpected for Komer; in his view, it seemed unlikely that Zellin would use his own daughter in any sort of exchange, and he was also clear that Vero's arrival wouldn't change much.
Nevertheless, Komer was very happy to see Vero. Vero was still so purely flawless, and conversing with her remained just as easygoing and leisurely. This relaxation wasn't merely superficial; it allowed Komer to attain a psychological relief that was hard to come by.
Komer knew that perhaps Vero might not be aware of her own true purpose for coming, but the Gutenberg noble who accompanied her was certainly not just an escort; he was the real protagonist.
Yet the protagonist was left aside by Komer, the privilege of the victor.
