Before boarding the Siren, Ian first went to Nauman City to report his intentions and choices to the true noble elder brother of the South Ridge, Marquis Barton.
This is a common courtesy, a way to show manners — Ian had already managed all the necessary documents for going abroad through the Royal Alchemy Association's channels, and Anfa had also granted him the necessary clearance for entry, making everything complete from top to bottom.
However, as a Naling Nobility, Ian had to personally inform Marquis Barton of his departure from South Ridge, meet him, have a meal together, and say goodbye before leaving.
It's not about the rules; it's just about saving face.
And Ian, such a young genius, surprisingly didn't just leave on his own accord, thinking his connections could handle everything; instead, he came over for a lunch and humbly mentioned that his territory would still need the care of the elder brother, leaving Marquis Barton very satisfied.
