Quintin smiled warmly and said, "Rise. Your contribution to the acquisition of Leafall has been substantial. No formalities are necessary."

Rufus's eyes gleamed with joy. Quintin's demeanor suggested that he had left a favorable impression, which was immensely gratifying for Rufus. He had meticulously prepared for this moment, even considering surrender prior to the war's onset, all in anticipation of such recognition.

However, Rufus was oblivious to the disdain lurking in Quintin's gaze. To Quintin, the denizens of Obscura, including its supposed nobility, were mere primitives. He found it ludicrous that some of these nobles had opted to surrender at the war's outset. If Quintin were the ruler of Obscura, he would sooner perish than have such subjects.

Unaware of Quintin's profound disdain toward him, Rufus continued to harbor aspirations of advancement and prosperity.

"I heard you have an aide named Illya by your side?” Quintin inquired, catching Rufus off guard.

"My lord, he's