Count Oden led Li Ang into the throne hall.
As the official responsible for signing Li Ang's settlement charter, Oden had resigned from his post at the Noble Council, but he still had to attend this investiture as the newly appointed baron's sponsor and witness.
Another witness was Duke Alma, the acting administrator of the kingdom's eastern region, who was currently "helping manage the regional affairs for the posthumous son of an old friend."
This was because Li Ang's territory lay in the eastern region.
There should originally have been another witness: Baron Godric, the lord responsible for verifying the county where the territory was located.
But he had been unable to come due to an urgent matter. Apparently, his wife was ill—Godric's wife now lived in Crow's Perch Village, which was also Godric's hometown and now belonged to his son.
White Deer Fortress was constantly at war, so it was indeed unsuitable for someone recovering from illness.
There were another two or three people in the hall, but Li Ang did not recognize them.
"Li Ang Griffin, I heard from Count Oden that you contributed greatly to the logistical support during this war. You have worked hard..."
Perhaps because the war had achieved its purpose, King Ulrich appeared to be in a good mood. Still, Li Ang seemed to hear a trace of mockery in his voice.
"Your Majesty, it was merely my duty as a lord of the kingdom..."
Li Ang smiled and spoke humbly.
Ulrich rose from his throne, walked down the steps, and stopped before Li Ang.
"I hear your territory is called Wheat Fragrance Territory? Godric praised your lands highly back then. What did he say... what was it again?"
Ulrich turned to ask the middle-aged man beside him.
"He said Lord Li Ang governed