"Oh, Sir Michael! Come in. I've had a meal prepared for you as well. Servant, bring in the food!"
Michael sat down, his guard not entirely hidden. Shortly after, a servant dressed immaculately entered with a well-prepared tray. The meal was overly luxurious for a battlefield: rich tea accompanied by cream and sugar, freshly baked bread, bacon, prosciutto, scrambled eggs, butter, and milk.
Indeed, high-ranking nobles were on a different level.
"This is a splendid feast. I won't refuse," Michael said, digging in.
After finishing his meal and sipping tea, the conversation turned to business. Count Charles clasped his hands together and fixed his gaze on Michael as he began.
"Sir Michael, I've heard of your exploits. They say your quick judgment was key to entering the fortress first. How old are you?"
"I turned 17 this year," Michael replied.