Accompanied by a maid, the madam walked to the front of the three stone platforms, then sat in a cushioned chair the servants had carried over.
Her bright, phoenix-shaped eyes slowly swept over everyone in the hall, as though searching for something.
Then she turned toward the middle-aged man approaching her.
The middle-aged man bowed slightly to her. "Greetings, Duchess."
The madam gave a slight nod in return. "Mr. Luo." Then she asked politely, "Have you found your stay at the residence comfortable?"
The middle-aged man smiled. "The splendor of this Duke's Residence must already rival the Star Luo Imperial Palace. What could I possibly find uncomfortable?"
The madam smiled faintly as well. "I'm glad you're comfortable. Otherwise, my husband might blame me for neglecting our guest. Also, I heard you've been giving the servants' children some introductory lessons these past few years. Thank you for your efforts. On behalf of all the servants, I offer you my gratitude."
The middle-aged man she had called Mr. Luo waved his hand and shook his head, then said with a smile, "It's a small matter. After all, I can't simply eat, drink, and stay here for free."
The madam covered her lips and chuckled. "Rest assured, sir, our Duke's Residence still has resources to spare. Of course, I know you've been traveling these past few years, but should you grow weary, the doors of our Duke's Residence will always be open to you."
Mr. Luo laughed heartily, then said with a touch of wistfulness, "Yes, come to think of it, I've already spent four years at your residence. Perhaps it's time I continued my travels."
The madam grew serious. "Oh? Are you planning to leave, sir?"
Mr. Luo did not answer her, instead saying with a smile, "This martial soul awakening ceremony