As the imperial diplomat's caravan continued its journey, its wooden wheels creaked over the uneven stone road. The escort accompanying them was not large, but it was sufficient to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted trip. The soldiers remained vigilant, their eyes constantly scanning the surroundings, even though the journey had been uneventful so far.
Inside one of the main carriages, a rotund man sat with a bored expression, his fingers tapping impatiently against the armrest of his seat.
"Haah… I really don't understand," he sighed, his deep voice echoing within the enclosed carriage. "What was the Crown Prince thinking when he sent me to such a tiny place?" He leaned back into his seat, his tone laced with sarcasm. "I know he hates me, but isn't this a bit much? No… could it be that this trip was planned to get rid of me?"