Coriolanus took a goblet and swished a little of the posca around his mouth, hopefully rinsing away any trace of cabbage breath, but he only allowed himself one swallow. The world still thought him rich, but his only real currency was charm, which he spread liberally as he made his way through the crowd.

Faces lit up as he gave friendly hellos to students and teachers alike, asking about family members, dropping compliments here and there.