Richard followed the old servant out of the inn, finding that a luxurious carriage had already been prepared for him — guarded by ten mounted knights.
That alone showed how much respect the Empress had for him.
The old servant even personally acted as the coachman.
Inside the carriage, Richard was still lost in thought.
He tried to think positively, convincing himself that the Empress was merely fulfilling her duty — showing appreciation toward one of her most outstanding citizens.
That should be something normal.
With so many guards accompanying him, it didn't take long before they arrived once again at the grand palace.
However, the carriage didn't stop in front of it.
Instead, the old servant steered it to the side, ascending a sloped path that led to a rooftop.
That part of the palace truly had a massive rooftop garden, filled with all kinds of flowers growing directly from the floor.
