"During my absence, I'm leaving all matters concerning the Eighteenth District, big and small, in your hands…"
The Chief Judge continued, extending a bandaged hand to offer an antique bronze key.
"If I don't make it back in the end, wait until Lloyd is promoted to Tier Five, then give this key to him. After that, he should inherit my position under the Grand Judge's arrangement. You can trust him as you trust me."
"This…"
The chief of staff was stunned, not expecting the conversation to suddenly turn to such matters.
"You're going to…"
"Forgetfulness is the enemy of all Wisdom, and the greatest threat to the Wisdom Saint. Therefore, I must go and walk my Path of Wisdom."
"But this is all so sudden, isn't it?"
"This isn't sudden at all, my friend. This was fated long ago. It is something I must do, the path I am bound to walk."
The Chief Judge spoke, turning his head toward the Veto Sanctuary. A hint of amusement crept into his voice:
