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On Thursday morning, Hobert accompanied Barton in the law firm's carriage to the residence of Earl Hall.
In the carriage, Barton introduced, "Earl Hall is a nobleman with profound vision and a wise mind. While most lords are still living off their land and estates, Earl Hall has actively invested in banking and emerging industries."
Hobert nodded, thinking, "Isn't he Miss Justice's father?" He had some impression of him.
Barton sighed, "The reforms in the Loen Kingdom over the years have been like a sieve. Some nobles have seized the opportunity to gain more wealth and political status, while most have fallen into decline.
"However, nobles value their dignity. Even if there are disputes among them, they first think of resolving them privately. If it goes to court, it means both sides have completely torn apart, willing to forsake their noble dignity for some wealth and assets."
Barton was deeply trusted by Earl Hall. Whenever the Earl had important transactions or collaborations, he would ask Barton to review the contracts. In case of economic disputes, he would also seek Barton's advice.
Hobert had seen Earl Hall's mansion from a distance before. It didn't seem impressive from the outside, but once inside, Hobert realized it was much larger than he had imagined.
Upon entering, there was a huge garden with sculptures, fountains, vast lawns, and well-trimmed landscape trees.
Lawns were a symbol of nobility in this era. Ordinary families wouldn't plant grass because it had no economic benefit and required effort to maintain. Only nobles, who didn't rely on the land for their livelihood, would choose to plant grass. Gradually, lawns became a symbol of nobility and wealth.
Hobert and Barton arrived in the carriage in front of a grand three-story European-style building. Earl Hall's butler was already waiting outside.
The butler politely exchanged pleasantries with Barton and didn't forget to compliment Hobert on his handsome appearance.
Then, under the butler's guidance, Barton and Hobert entered the mansion. The entrance led to a magnificent hall with many artworks on the walls and valuable antiques on display.
Earl Hall was waiting in front of a reception room. Although time had left its mark on the Earl, he was still handsome. One could imagine that in his youth, he must have been a noble who captivated many young ladies.
"Mr. Barton, you always look so well," Earl Hall smiled. "Is this your new assistant?"
"Your complexion is as warm as the morning sun," Barton replied. "Yes, Earl, he is a top student from Backlund University, a very promising young man."
Earl Hall scrutinized Hobert, noting his black hair, dark eyes, and handsome features, especially his sunny and cheerful smile, like a neighbor's boy visiting.
"Seeing these outstanding young people makes me feel truly old," Earl Hall sighed. "Please, come in."
"Father!" A clear voice called out, stopping the three men in their tracks. They turned towards the sound.
Hobert saw a stunning beauty walking gracefully towards them. She had golden hair and blue eyes, her long hair shimmering like gold, with a pure and elegant demeanor. Her green eyes were like the purest gems.
Hobert was mesmerized. She was undoubtedly the most beautiful lady he had seen in both his lives.
Barton cleared his throat, snapping Hobert back to reality. He apologized, "Sorry, Earl, and this beautiful lady, your beauty has left me in awe."
Earl Hall smiled, "There's no need to apologize. The pursuit of beauty is a gentleman's virtue."
This extraordinarily beautiful lady was, of course, "Miss Justice" Audrey.
Hobert thought, no wonder Klein lost his composure when he first met Audrey, even suspecting she might be a "Witch." She was indeed excessively beautiful.
The Earl asked Audrey, who had approached, "My beautiful daughter, what do you need?"
"Hello, Mr. Barton," Audrey greeted warmly, her good manners evident. She also gave Hobert a gentle smile.
Then she turned to Earl Hall, "Dear Father, after you finish your business, may I ask Mr. Barton a few questions privately?"
[T/N: how does she address him? Father? Dear Earl? I vaguely remember her saying "Dear Earl" in the novel…]
"Of course," Earl Hall replied indulgently.
Barton added, "It would be my honor, beautiful lady."
He continued, "Allow me to introduce my assistant, Hobert. He is a law student at Backlund University. If you have legal questions, I believe Hobert can assist you."
Earl Hall smiled, "It seems you have high expectations for this young man."
Barton nodded, "Yes, I do."
Hearing their conversation, Hobert was slightly stunned. He understood that Barton was recommending him to the Earl's next generation.
In the Loen legal community, it was customary for prominent lawyers to recommend promising students or assistants to their main clients or their clients' descendants. It was akin to taking on a "closed-door disciple."
However, Hobert thought that once he digested the potion, he might leave the firm. Why was Barton nurturing him this way?
But now wasn't the time to ponder this. Hobert bowed slightly to Audrey, "At your service."
Audrey seemed a bit skeptical of Hobert, but out of respect for Mr. Barton, she said, "Alright then, Mr. Hobert, please follow me."
Watching the two young people leave, Earl Hall smiled, "I should consider finding a young assistant too."
He sighed, "Youth is wonderful, always full of vitality. I feel invigorated just being around them."
Barton smiled, "Shall we get to work?"
The two men continued their conversation as they entered the reception room.
Meanwhile, Audrey led Hobert to the garden. Even the most beautiful flowers there paled in comparison to Audrey.
Walking ahead, Audrey asked, "Mr. Hobert, have you handled criminal cases before?"
Hobert was taken aback. He couldn't very well say he had only handled one case in total: "I've reviewed many related cases and can help you analyze and provide suggestions. If it needs to be resolved in court, Mr. Barton can represent you."
Audrey frowned slightly before continuing, "I have a friend who accidentally crippled someone in a conflict..."
Hobert thought, "Miss Justice, could that friend be Xio?"