The Governor's secretary caught up just then, and Hesta and Victoria tacitly paused their conversation.
"...I almost forgot to say goodbye to you," Hesta smiled and turned around. "I am very satisfied with how today's events turned out. Thank you for giving my regards to the Governor."
"It's nothing, the Governor has always appreciated you," the secretary kept pace with Hesta. "He often tells me he sees the shadow of his own youth in you. There aren't many young people like you left... Are you free tomorrow night?"
"Does the Governor have something to talk to me about?"
"Tomorrow night at His Majesty's palace—you know, just south of this plantation, not far from your residence—the Governor will be hosting some District 3 officials who were recently transferred to District 12. He hopes you can attend as well," the secretary said. "You should have already met some of them; they will all step into relatively important positions in the future..."
"Only newcomers?"
"Of course not," the secretary said. "There will also be many of the Governor's friends. After all, the Governor always hopes to bring everyone together, which benefits everyone."
"Indeed." Hesta nodded in agreement. "Tell the Governor I will be there—thank you for me, I am very glad to receive such an invitation."
The secretary looked at Hesta, his gaze lingering for a full five or six seconds.
"What?" Hesta asked.
The secretary shook his head, his expression extremely sincere. He sighed and said softly, "I rarely encounter the Governor holding such high regard for any young successor. I believe his judgment cannot be wrong—you will be the new star here."
Hesta chuckled a few times. "Then I'll take your good word for it. See you tomorrow night."
The secretary bid farewell to the two Quicksilver Needles before him, his