As I entered the inner castle, many people were already waiting for me and Carl in front of the lord's residence.
While the knight was slowing down to guide Carl, a soldier ran over and relayed the message.
"Your Excellency the Grand Duke."
"Lord Hilfin, it's been a while."
As Pardin, who had come out in such a hurry that he couldn't even put on his outer clothes properly, bowed his head to Carl and greeted him politely, Carl also got off his horse and extended his hand to him.
Pardin looked into Carl's eyes and took his hand, seeing how much he had grown in just two years.
At that time, he was a small boy who barely reached my chest, but now he had returned as a man big enough to meet my eyes straight on.
Now, Carl was the great Archduke—the protagonist of the victory in the invasion of Tumari, revered by all of the Empire.
"It's cold. Come inside."
"Thank you for your hospitality."
Pardin politely guided Carl, and Carl followed him into the mansion.
