Chapter 243
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After returning to the Empire from Prozen, I toured studios and ateliers across the country.
These were the artists I had personally recruited for the stage that was the World Expo. In the history before my return, most had fled abroad to escape the Empire's oppression, or only found recognition after returning following its downfall. This time, I would secure their genius before anyone else.
"I'm Max Riefenstahl."
The middle-aged sculptor, chisel in hand, introduced himself and held out his hand.
"I heard your name was Max as well. We're namesakes, then."
He was an eccentric artist. The moment he called me Max, the staff members' expressions stiffened, but I answered calmly.
"Yes. It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Riefenstahl."
I took his rough hand. Riefenstahl's eyebrows rose, as though my reaction had caught him off guard.