When Hao Ren arrived at the gate on the west side of Golden Rose Palace, a carriage from the Kand Family had already been waiting there for quite some time.
An unfamiliar coachman and two unfamiliar attendants appeared before him, prepared to take him to an even more unfamiliar place—but fortunately, there was at least one person present whom he knew: Count Willie, standing in front of the carriage. This famous young nobleman rarely put on airs and was remarkably well-mannered. He had probably been waiting for half an hour, but when Hao Ren appeared, he showed no sign of annoyance. He was even smiling as he chatted with a nearby palace guard. Such an approachable attitude was rare among nobles.
"Sorry for the wait," Hao Ren explained the reason for his lateness as soon as he appeared. "I ran into Grand Duke Rune. That stern-looking big shot seemed rather curious about me, so I answered quite a few of his questions."
"No matter. Waiting for a great warrior from ancient times is worth however long it takes. Such an opportunity doesn't come often," Willie said with an elegant smile, turning slightly to gesture for Hao Ren to board the carriage. "Please, get in. The Kand Family's manor is not far outside the city. We'll arrive by noon."
The luxurious noble carriage slowly passed through the Golden Rose Palace's pointed main gate. As it gradually picked up speed, it soon vanished at the end of King's Avenue. After its shadow had completely disappeared, the two guards standing at the palace entrance exchanged glances.
The guard who had spoken with Willie earlier nodded to his companion. "Go inform the grand duke. The 'Guardian' has left with Count Willie. They're heading to the Kand Family's manor outside the city to meet up