While I was thinking, the back suddenly became noisy, and a group of four men and women appeared.
Among them, three looked familiar.
They were members of the [Defense of the Holy Sepulcher (Anastasia Keep)].
Their armor looked like it had some painful dents in it.
Therese was with them.
When she saw me, she lowered her eyes apologetically.
Another person was with them, a man in what looked to be his late fifties with a white beard.
Although he had deep wrinkles on his face, he had sharp eyes, his age had not weakened him.
I don't recognize him.
He's wearing the same blue armor as everyone else, so he should be a Temple Knight.
But, his armor's design is a little more elaborate.
It felt like it was an upgrade from Therese's armor.
Presently, I'm surrounded by normal Temple Knights.
Only a short distance away are the rest of the [Defense of the Holy Sepulcher (Anastasia Keep)].
And Therese, the commander of the elite Temple Knights, is with them.
This guy seems to be something like the king of the Temple Knights then.
"Temple Knights, Sword Group [Battalion Commander] Carlyle Latreia."[7]
... Ah.
This person... is Carlyle.
My grandfather...
"Despite our current situation... Nice to meet you, Rudeus Greyrat, son of Zenith Greyrat."
I got my answer in an instant, as Carlyle focused in on me.
His gaze is sharper than Claire's.
Can a married couple really be that similar?
This might be troublesome...
"Is that right?"
".... No."
I thought upon his meaning for a moment, then shook my head after remembering my interaction with Claire.
I am here as Orsted's subordinate.
I am Zenith's son as well... but I'm not here in that position.
If you don't insist on equal footing, then it's impossible to negotiate on equal footing.
"I am the Dragon God Orsted's representative, Rudeus Greyrat. I demand an audience with his Holiness."
"Hm."
I stuck out my chest, lifted my chin, and struck Eris's pose to answer.
For a fraction of a second, it looked like Carlyle showed a gentle smile.
However his expression immediately stiffened.
"Very well, I will guide you there."
While keeping a tough face, Carlyle turned heel.
Therese was making a difficult face, and followed Carlyle.
"... What about them, Miko-sama?"
".... Therese only followed the Cardinal's orders. Carlyle did not make eye contact, so I do not know."
I consulted the Miko again in a whisper.
Convenient.
Carlyle is undetermined.
He doesn't feel like an enemy, but he gives off an odd feeling, I'll keep my eye on him.
Disregarding the other Temple Knights, I followed after them.