Half an hour later, Velin heard footsteps approaching from afar and knew the person he was waiting to see had arrived.
The two red-armored knights walking at the front pushed open the doors, then stepped aside and bowed their heads in salute, respectfully welcoming their lord inside.
Third Prince Felis stood at the doorway, straightened his collar, crossed the threshold, and walked in.
At the same time, Velin rose to his feet and sized up the Third Prince approaching him. He carried an imposing presence and was handsome and dashing, but the slap mark on his face was especially conspicuous.
Seeing the astonishment on their faces, Felis showed no embarrassment. Smiling, he made a welcoming gesture and said to the three of them, "Count Velin, hello."
Velin responded politely, "Good afternoon, Your Highness."
Xuemiyya and Kyle bowed in respect.
Felis returned the gesture with a slight bow, then came to the low table and felt the temperature of the teapot with his hand. Finding it ice-cold, he instructed the Low-Gold Warrior beside him, "Bastin, replace the tea for our honored guests."
"Yes, my lord."
The Low-Gold Warrior answered loudly, a trace of delight in his tone, then turned and hurried out of the hall.
Afterward, they took their seats.
Looking at Velin across from him, Felis apologized, "Count Velin, some matters delayed me and made you wait for so long. Please forgive me."
"Waiting a little while was no trouble. We came to visit without warning, so we were already interrupting your proper business," Velin replied with a smile.
After exchanging a few pleasantries, Felis got straight to the point. "Count Velin, may I ask what brings you here this time?"
"Your Highness, I came this time for Viscount Clever."
The moment he stated his purpose, Velin secretly observed Felis's