"It's nothing much. This matter has simply been causing quite a stir lately, and a lot of people are concerned about it."
Hesta looked at him. "Who else?"
"As you said, many nobles in District 12," Arevalo replied. "The assassin clearly harbors an intense hatred for the nobility. This kind of irrational malice is always the most destructive—speaking of which, did Quicksilver Needles investigate that failed encirclement operation two years ago? Why did they let the assassin escape?"
"I don't know. That wasn't my responsibility," Hesta answered. "But if you need it, I can ask around for you."
"That would be wonderful," Arevalo said. "However, if you find out anything—"
"I'll come visit you directly."
Arevalo nodded in satisfaction.
Simoya immediately pinched Hesta's arm hard and shot her a warning glare—could they really reveal such matters to an outsider like Arevalo?
Hesta pretended not to notice. She took a few steps forward and returned to Arevalo's side.
The old man slowed before a balcony, and the butler promptly stepped forward to open its doors. Sunlight spilled into the corridor. The group followed Arevalo onto the balcony and looked down. Eleven and Ligo's laughter drifted from somewhere beyond their field of view; they seemed to be running and laughing.
Hesta folded her arms and gazed into the distance in the direction of the voices.
"What has the Governor been busy with lately?" Simoya asked.
"I'm practically retired already. What could I possibly be busy with? Nothing but the same old affairs." Arevalo smiled. "A few members of the Crimson Palm Sangha caused trouble in Saint Lom some time ago. Did you hear about it?"
"I was there," Hesta said, turning around. "If you mean that Eternal Tree march."
"Yes, that's the one." Arevalo nodded. "It's been nearly a month now, and