With an angry glance of derision toward the statue high above him on the dais, he whirled and marched out of the temple.
*****
The following evening, Daniel finished his makeup and was tying his sash when the computer announced that Meilin was calling.
“Screen on.” Daniel looked up at his wall screen.
“Mr. Eng Sen has arrived.” Meilin looked uncomfortable. “He told me to take him to the ritual this evening and later we’ll meet you for dinner.”
“A business dinner.” Daniel nodded formally. “Thank you.”
“You’re welcome.” She disconnected.
At dinner, he would have to answer for his comments yesterday.
*****
Daniel waited on stage right as priests spoke to the crowd. The ritual Daniel had designed was a hodgepodge of American tent-revival, Buddhist-style chanting, Chinese lighting of i
