The Duke emerged from the cottage and said to the waiting butler, Ossen, "Butler Ossen, the situation in the castle is more complicated than anticipated. I need the Earl's permission to conduct a more comprehensive investigation within the castle, including all areas, even those rarely visited."
Seeing the serious expression on the Duke's face, Ossen did not dare delay and immediately led him back to the main castle's study.
The Earl of Laurent heard of the Duke's return, his face a mixture of anticipation and anxiety: "Wizard Duke, did Hans provide any clues?"
The Duke didn't directly mention the Nightmare Plane, as such matters are not easily spoken of. He carefully considered his words: "Lord Earl, Hans's condition confirms one of my suspicions. There might be some... imperceptible energy anomaly or historical issue within the castle. To identify the source, I need your permission to conduct a thorough investigation of all areas, including some that are not regularly used."
