The lord's castle was plainer than expected—the enormous fortress seemed to have been built so tall and sturdy solely to serve as a military stronghold. Only after entering did one realize that, aside from the emblems of the Dragon Empire and a few decorative swords imbued with a martial spirit hanging on the walls, there was almost no unnecessary ornamentation.
Under Kaim's guidance, Hao Ren, Charlemagne, and the others followed the castle corridors toward the room where Grand Duke Owen was staying. Footsteps echoed through the slightly gloomy passage. Windows had been opened on only one side of the corridor, and daylight streamed through the tall, narrow openings, falling upon the decorative shields on the opposite wall and casting a hazy halo across their surfaces. Dust danced in the glow like wisps of smoke.
The guards and maids along the way respectfully saluted this special "party of visitors" and retreated to either side of the corridor. From the unconcealed panic on their faces, it was clear that although Grand Duke Owen had regained consciousness, his condition was far from good.
At the door to the grand duke's room, an old man in a white robe trimmed with blue happened to push the door open and step out.
Kaim walked up and nodded to the old man. "Scholar Holman, I've brought the distinguished guests the grand duke specifically requested to see."
The old man called Scholar Holman raised his eyes and glanced at the group before him. His eyebrows twitched slightly, and a hint of displeasure entered his voice. "I didn't hear that there would be this many people—the grand duke's condition is very poor. Having so many visitors at once..."
"The grand duke specifically requested to see them," Kaim emphasized again. "Scholar, as far as I know, your responsibility is