William Mina sat in the top-floor Pearl Restaurant of the Imperial Tower, taking in the magnificent night view of the imperial capital. After nightfall, the city transformed into a black velvet cloth studded with gems, with hovering cars rolling like pearls.
The Grand Duke of Luxembourg sat across from her, enthusiastically introducing the dishes. William Mina seemed somewhat absent-minded, which he had noticed.
“I hope meeting you at this time doesn’t cause you any inconvenience,” the Duke said. “I know about recent events. Believe me, I have always supported you.”
“Thank you, Your Grace,” William Mina forced a smile. “Until this matter is over, I can’t assert what impact it will have on me. But discussing serial killers at the dinner table is inappropriate.”
“Of course,” the Duke smiled. “I hope you won’t be affected.”
“I will try to remain unaffected. But under the great tide, it’s difficult for one person to stay unscathed.” William Mina smiled bitterly, lowering her head to cut her fish. “I’ve always been an insignificant person, so these events won’t impact me much. Anyway, I will graduate and then return to Rockston to live. This has always been my expected life.”
“Oh, poor girl,” the Duke of Luxembourg expressed compassion. “Is there anything I can do to help? I will definitely do my best.”
“You are so kind, Your Grace,” William Mina smiled gratefully. “Having a friend like you makes me feel strong. Perhaps you can visit me in Rockston someday. While it may not be as large as the Luxembourg Star Domain, the scenery is quite beautiful.”
“I believe so, Your Highness. Only you are worthy of that beautiful scenery.”
William Mina blushed and turned her head, surprised to see Schneider not far away. He appeared slightly heavier than before, having likely been watching her. When he noticed, he raised his glass and nodded to her. An elegant middle-aged lady sat across from him, seemingly his wife.
William Mina raised her glass in return.
“Do you know him?” the Grand Duke of Luxembourg asked.
“He’s Gavin Schneider, the Democratic Party leader,” William Mina replied. “What a coincidence today.”
“So he reserved the best position,” the Duke of Luxembourg remarked. “If I had arrived a bit earlier, we could have sat over there instead of behind this pillar.”
