Meanwhile.
In the Armand estate courtyard.
"Giddie… Catch."
"Cuquawked!" Giddie casually caught the fruit Garius threw at him.
Garius watched him, noting how Giddie had grown larger and more powerful with each passing year, his feathers gleaming like molten gold in the morning light.
"Hmm… looks like you've grown taller and stronger, huh, Giddie?" Garius glanced up at the massive bird.
"Cuquawked."
"Good thing these fruits suit you so well."
"Your Majesty?" Alf placed his palm over his left chest and bowed.
"Yes, Alf?"
"Please remember you have an audience with Lady Kayra soon."
"Mm… I know. If Gilmon is escorting her by Pekko carriage, she should arrive within two or three hours. That leaves me time for my usual routine, feed my Pekko, ride him around the grounds, then return to work."
"Yes, Your Majesty." Erinnette smiled softly.
"So, Alf?"
"Yes, Your Majesty?"
"How is my son?"
