Madam

Despite knowing Hesta was flattering her, Simoya still laughed. She immediately reined it in, not wanting anyone to notice how pleased the praise had made her. Looking away, she spoke softly. "Yes, Kendall is certainly a very charming person. She always sees far ahead, though that kind of all-encompassing vision can sometimes hurt people..."

She looked at Hesta. "But afterward, everyone always understands why she did it."

"Oh, is that so?"

"Yes," Simoya answered earnestly. "It is always so... I believe you would agree."

Hesta called Eucali and the two children back. The three of them went over their own documents together and asked a few questions. About fifteen minutes later, Simoya got up to leave. "I still have some important work tonight, but if you need anything, call me anytime."

"Alright." Hesta saw her to the door. "Sorry to trouble you."

As soon as the door closed, Hesta looked at Ligo. "Ligo, could you make a trip to Trion's residence?"

"What are you planning?"

"Ask him whether he has time tonight," Hesta said quietly. "If we're having dinner, it has to be tonight."

Ligo paused and checked the time. "...It's already four thirty in the afternoon."

"Mm." Hesta nodded. "Tell him it's tonight. After that, I can't guarantee I'll be able to make it."

Ligo smiled, understanding.

At seven thirty, a hastily prepared invitation arrived at Hesta's apartment. Everyone—including Eleven and Kiki—got into the luxury car provided by Baron Trion and headed for his grand estate in the outskirts. As they got in, Hesta received a call from Simoya. Trion had called her just moments before, right on time, and extended a verbal invitation, but Simoya was already on a plane to another city and could not return to Emangria.

"Are you already in the car?" Simoya's voice