Three days later, as dawn broke, Clever and Anila had already risen and begun preparing.
Hearing the rumble of carriage wheels, Clever gestured for several guards to take the gifts from the hall. Holding Anila's hand, he led her toward the manor entrance.
Outside the manor, Head Maid Hilda stepped down from the carriage and quietly waited six meters from the gates for the guests she had come to receive.
Twelve Silver Knights in armor stood on either side of the carriage, holding the military banners of Qixing Territory and maintaining solemn expressions.
Less than a minute later, the gates opened, and Clever and Anila emerged with six guards.
Hilda placed a hand over her abdomen and bowed. "Good morning, Viscount Clever, Lady Anila. I am the Head Maid of Star Moon Fort. By my master's orders, I have come to welcome you both, our honored guests."
"Greetings, Head Maid."
Clever looked at the Head Maid before him and responded politely.
A head maid and great beauty—put those two factors together, and it was easy for one to think of a mistress.
Therefore, a measure of courtesy was necessary.
Hilda's expression did not change in the slightest at Clever's politeness. Turning slightly, she made a welcoming gesture. "Viscount Clever, Lady Anila, these twelve knights will escort you for the rest of the journey."
"My master is already waiting for you and your wife at the castle. Please board the carriage."
Hearing this, Clever said nothing more and boarded the carriage with Anila.
The six guards went to the rear of the carriage, placed the gifts on the platform behind it, then returned to the manor gates and watched the convoy depart.
Star Prayer City was as quiet as ever in the early morning. In less than ten minutes, the carriage