Duke's army stood in disciplined formation before Anno's main camp. The two influential Dukes were finally reunited under their war banners.
Anno stepped forward first, his posture elegant, yet with a hint of familiarity reserved for an old acquaintance.
"Duke, it's been a long time. I never thought that after so many years, we would meet again under circumstances like these."
Duke laughed heartily, dismounted cleanly, and strode forward.
"Anno, you haven't changed a bit. Always so particular with your words."
He reached out and clapped Anno heavily on the shoulder pauldron. The overly casual gesture broke the customary etiquette and distance between nobles.
"The last time we saw each other in the Royal Capital... it must have been five or six years ago, right?"
Anno accepted the overly enthusiastic greeting without flinching, a perfectly measured smile on his lips.
