Could it be because this visit was as formal as an engagement ceremony?

The Visconti Duke’s mansion was lavishly decorated, almost like a festival, if one could exaggerate a bit. Trees pruned in the shape of the Rothschild barony’s and the Visconti ducal family’s crests lined the entrance, and knights in ceremonial attire were stationed throughout the estate. The atmosphere was almost like a military parade preparing for the arrival of a commanding officer.

The Duke beside me, in contrast to my astonishment, seemed incredibly pleased.

“I thought it would take another three or four years before you could officially …