Duke Aiden nodded, his gaze shifting to the side.
"Raylo!"
Raylo's heart skipped a beat. He stepped out from the ranks and saluted.
"Viscount Raylo of Black Stone Territory," the Duke declared, "has performed many extraordinary feats in this war. His wisdom and courage have proven him worthy of greater responsibility."
"I have decided, by exceptional decree, to promote you to the rank of Count!"
A promotion that skipped a rank!
To jump directly from Viscount to Count was extremely rare in the Duchy's history.
Raylo could feel the gazes from all around him growing more complicated than before.
He composed himself and replied in a deep voice.
"Thank you, Your Grace!"
Duke Aiden continued.
"Lillian, you have served with merit in battle. For your outstanding contributions, you are hereby promoted to Viscount of Amber Territory."
Lillian covered her mouth in surprise, then, encouraged by a look from Raylo, she stepped out from the ranks and saluted.
