As expected, the room assigned to the duke inside the palace was quite luxurious. The hotel room where I stayed last night was also luxurious, but as a palace with a deep history, antique beauty was revealed from each piece of furniture.

"Did you bring the nine battlefield chess?" asked Duke Asteria.

I took out a chessboard and the pieces from my bag. "I thought you would want it, so I brought it. What kind of tea should I bring you?"

The duke burst into laughter as I pulled out 45 boxes of tea onto the table.

"You also have talent as a butler. I’ll have an Earl Grey."

"Yes, sir."

While I was boiling water in a magically heated kettle, a knock came from outside the room.

"It looks like we have a guest," I said.

The duke frowned. "I’m sure I said I was tired. I wonder what kind of guy is bold enough to come see me?"

"I will go have a look."

I left the kettle on the table and opened the door.

"Who is it?"

Outside the door was an old servant in imperial palace livery.

"I apologize for the sudden visit. Excuse me, but I have a message for His Highness. Would it be ok if I came in?"

Since he was an elderly servant and not...