The ceremony continued...
A portly lord in yellow silk practically waddled forward, bowing so low his face turned red.
"Lady Verelia," he wheezed, "House Cromwell presents this necklace of Astarian pearls, each one worth a small estate!"
He produced an ostentatious display case, clearly hoping the duchess would be impressed by the wealth.
Verelia's expression remained perfectly neutral.
"How... generous, Lord Cromwell." Her tone was polite but utterly devoid of warmth.
Next came Marcus, still pale from witnessing Alaric's earlier display but determined to make an impression. He swept forward with practiced elegance, producing a leather-bound tome.
"A first edition of 'The Celestial Chronicles,' Lady Verelia. I recalled you mentioned an interest in ancient history at the spring gathering."
For the briefest moment, genuine interest flickered in Verelia's eyes before the mask slipped back into place. "Your memory serves you well, Lord Vale."
