Ask whether Darius is aware of any social events you could join.

"Darius, my friend," you say, "as you know, I'm a man of ambition. I'd not seem grasping, but...who, if given the chance, would not attempt to improve his family's lot in life?" Darius nods agreement. "Your family is more highly connected than mine. Your father's in the Senate. Your mother's a famed socialite. I was wondering whether you know of any social events that I would be welcome at where I might meet some of the better sort of people. You know - people who would be able to help me make connections, both social and political."

Darius nods, looking thoughtful. "Of course, of course. I agree - while your father was a great man, your family can certainly climb higher than he left it. And that's all on you now! Of course you want to make connections." He taps his lip. "Let's see...six days from now, the Ferexi clan is throwing a massive party to honor their founder Ferex. It should be quite the do, and they're a powerful, connected family. Care to accompany me?"

Your heart leaps - the Ferexi are indeed a powerful family, the sort that you could use to associate yourself with. And, if memory serves, they've got a child or two around your age, so it won't just be a gathering of people well above your station. You nod eagerly. "I would be indebted to you, Darius. Thank you."

He waves you off. "Think nothing of it, think nothing of it! Honestly, I'll be glad to have you along - that way I don't have to spend too much energy on putting up with Lucretia..."