Chapter 144 True Noble Etiquette
A team of knights escorted a carriage, catching Elisa's attention. She hadn't seen these people in Hyratos before.
They weren't dressed in typical knight attire, but their presence exuded a certain aura, one that made Elisa's heart race. It was the kind of aura born from taking lives.
Elisa tried to blend into the shadows, feeling a strong sense of danger emanating from the group. Would she be killed if she was discovered? She concluded that even if she could take out a few of them, her fate would be sealed.
The carriage must be carrying someone important, given the protection it received. Elisa's green eyes scanned the scene.
The day was turning dark, and for many families, it seemed like the end.
Suddenly, Henry felt a gaze on him. He turned to see a figure with captivating green eyes in the shadows of an alley. As the carriage moved forward, the eyes disappeared from his sight.
Who was it? Those eyes were beautiful, like green gems, pure and enchanting.
"Interesting, this noble is quite special." Elisa said.
She adjusted her hat, revealing her black eyes. She was a sight to behold, more attractive than most male elves.
Soon, Elisa pushed aside her thoughts and walked into the shadows, contemplating her next move.
"I can't go inland now. The bounty hunters are more alert than the dog tribes or orcs." she mused.
"There's nowhere to go in the west, and winter is approaching. I can save some coins and endure the cold."
"Then let's find a remote city and make plans after winter."
The carriage hit a bump, jolting everyone inside. Henry snapped back to reality, momentarily forgetting about the green eyes. He began to question the wisdom of traveling by carriage.
The journey was uncomfortable, with no cushioning or shock absorption, especially on the dirt roads of Hyratos.
Henry longed for his luxurious carriage back home, where he could at least lie down and not feel the intense vibrations.
Finally, they arrived at the Lord's Manor in Hyratos.
Henry stretched his limbs and, with Mila and Leo, made his way towards the entrance.
Before reaching the gate, Henry saw the Lord of Hyratos waiting for him. It was a significant gesture, considering they were both nobles of the same rank.
The Lord of Hyratos couldn't help but feel a bit inferior. Henry's attire, with its intricate patterns and a sparkling green accessory, seemed to outshine his own. The Lord estimated that Henry's outfit would cost at least ten gold coins.
In comparison, his own attire, a fine linen garment worth ten silver coins, made him feel like a commoner.
"Welcome, Mr. Henry!" the Lord of Hyratos forced a smile.
Henry extended his hand, his posture exuding elegance. He casually greeted the Lord with a slight bow, a traditional gesture of respect. "Have I arrived belatedly?" Henry asked.
The Lord, taken aback by Henry's actions, quickly followed suit, returning the bow. "The banquet has just been meticulously prepared."
Observers couldn't help but feel that Henry was the true noble, surpassing the Lord of Hyratos in etiquette, demeanor, and attire.
"This is a small gift of my appreciation." Henry said, his sleeve swaying.
Leo handed the canned fish to a nearby maid and whispered, "This is a delicacy prepared by our master!"
"Really?" The Lord's eyes lit up in surprise. "I must taste it tonight."
"It's just a passing hobby." Henry replied, his actions full of grace.
"Please, after you!"
The Lord of Hyratos managed a smile, but he felt a sense of embarrassment. He realized he had a lot to learn from Henry, especially in terms of etiquette.
"Very well!" Henry, exhibiting no pretense of modesty, took the lead, striding forth with Mila in tow.
The Lord of Hyratos, whilst standing behind, emulated a slight bow with his hands, an action he perceived as a pivotal decorum. The next time he would be in the company of other nobles, he intended to integrate this form of salutation.
"Lord Henry has already entered." A knight reminded the distracted Lord.
"Good!" The Lord's face showed a hint of embarrassment. It was a bit shameful to have secretly learned noble etiquette.
Walking ahead, Henry heard Mila whisper, "Henry, the Lord of Hyratos is imitating your manners."
"Let him learn!" Henry chuckled. If nobles needed etiquette, they would bring ancient rituals, incorporating some ceremonial elements.
Who would dare say he wasn't a noble? Perhaps no one would. Today, the Lord of Hyratos was a witness. In the future, all nobles would greet each other with a slight bow.
He had just established a new etiquette for this era. He would be the one everyone thought of when it came to such gestures. He was the most courteous noble.
Of course, Henry's influence wasn't great yet. When he could influence all the nobles, the gesture would become popular.
