Vera, standing nearby, suddenly giggled. "Helena, the winters here are too long, and it can get boring just hanging around. Why don't you visit Oskia instead? I'm sure you travel to Southern Europe or tropical countries during winters here too, right?"

Helena smiled, not expecting the sudden invitation."We do travel to Southern Europe or tropical countries where we have property and are friendly with the local governments. That way, we'd have more privacy, and passing through customs is easier, but not Oskia. I can go on an official visit, but without any property, having a vacation there might not be easy."

Vera said, "It's not a big deal, actually—just a sister city relationship between Oslo and Aurous Hill. You can use that as an excuse to go to Aurous Hill, and there will be a suite waiting for you at Shangri-La for further convenience. Charlie owns it, and you could tell the local government that you don't want publicity. There's no problem with that at all."

Helena's eyes lit