After leaving Duopas County in Casson Province, Velin did not head to the Provincial Capital. Instead, he flew directly toward West River Province.
As they passed through Brown Province, a squad of griffins appeared high in the sky, intending to conduct a routine inquiry. But once they saw the Noble Banner flying from the Floating Airship, they dispersed to either side and escorted it onward.
Early the next morning, the leisurely flying Star Moon Floating Airship arrived above Eagle Territory.
Standing on the deck, Velin leaned against the railing and looked down. Everything seemed so small.
On the ground stood a uniquely styled castle.
"Windsor Castle. I wonder if Big Brother is there right now."
Xuemiyya stood beside Velin, feeling the gentle breeze as she softly said, "I'd guess Big Brother is dealing with all sorts of complicated affairs right now, just like the First Eagle Marquis—our dear father—used to."
"That's true." Remembering their father's busy figure from childhood, Velin nodded. "With the honor, disgrace, rise, and fall of the entire family resting on his shoulders, Big Brother must be under a lot of pressure too."
At that moment, inside Windsor Castle, a Mid-Gold Knight saw the Floating Airship that had suddenly appeared in the sky. He was about to order the Griffin Knights to inquire about the visitor's purpose, but after seeing the banner flying from the airship, his expression changed drastically. He immediately ran toward the study where the family head was.
Inside the study, Ilisis rested his head on his left hand while holding a document in his right, repeatedly examining the proposal and considering the feasibility of the plan.
"Creak—"
The study door opened, and a silver-haired woman entered carrying a plate of pastries.
"Alyssia, you could have left this to the maids. Why did you