The duel had just ended when I was summoned to Duke Silphid's office.
After a quick rinse to wash off the sweat, I made my way to his office and lightly knocked on the door.
"Enter," came the curt response.
I opened the door and stepped inside. The Duke stood by the window, gazing out at the expansive landscape beyond. His back was straight, his posture commanding as always.
"You've come, Xeros," he said without turning around.
"Yes, Father," I responded, taking a step closer.
"There is something I must tell you regarding today's events," the Duke began, exhaling deeply as if to gather his thoughts.
"I owe you both an apology and a word of thanks."
"An apology and thanks...?" I repeated, unable to hide my surprise at these unexpected words. My father was not a man prone to expressing such sentiments.
He nodded slightly and then began to explain.
