"Brother Lester, we haven't seen each other in years. Why are you being so distant?" Velin said with slight reproach, draping an arm around Lester's shoulders.
"Lord Velin, times have changed. You are now a Count of the kingdom, while I am merely an ordinary Low-Gold Knight," Lester replied with a smile.
"There's no need for such formality with me." Seeing this, Velin spoke gently. "Addressing me like that makes us seem much more like strangers."
After several attempts at persuasion, Velin ultimately could not dissuade Lester and could only listen as he addressed him as "my lord" again and again.
To Lester, regardless of whether the young man was putting on an act or speaking sincerely, he would undoubtedly become a highly influential figure in the Ilia Kingdom in the future.
After some conversation, Velin instructed Belder to fully cooperate with Lester's inspection work. Other than his own castle, Lester could go anywhere.
Sitting to the right, Lester smiled and offered a few agreeable remarks, but he had already gained some clarity in his heart.
As for the inspection of Qixing Territory, he would record whatever the other party was willing to show him, and pretend to be blind to whatever they were unwilling to reveal.
As a seasoned hand, he would not offend a great noble who indirectly controlled an entire province.
After having a clerk lead Lester and his party away to rest, Velin's smile vanished. He instructed Belder, "Lester is a smart man. You can take him through the ordinary areas. As for those Magic Potion Plantations and important sites, just deal with them casually. He knows what to do."
"Yes, my lord," Belder replied with a nod.
Velin took a sip of tea and continued, "When he leaves, remember to give him a gift as