Chapter 21 - 20 : The Duke’s Proposal - Part 1
I slowly made my way through the crowd, following the sound of applause. Wherever I looked, laughter, raised glasses and contemptuous glances brushed against my skin.
In the centre of that golden circle of nobles full of falsehood, my eyes stopped on him: the Marquis Velkan Riesenhart, my father... and the host of this "show".
He sat cross-legged with an impassive face, as if nothing in this world could affect him. His indifference was so palpable that some nobles moved away from him. But soon my attention shifted to his side, where the sound was louder.
There, a man clapped with a sharp, satisfied smile.
It was Duke Vaelgrand.
August Vaelgrand.
A noble of imposing stature, straight red hair slicked back, and an unshakable presence that seemed to stir the very atmosphere. His gaze alone radiated authority and command.
And at that moment, his eyes were fixed on me.
Then, with a simple—almost lazy—gesture of his hand, it was as if the order to proceed had finally been given...
The crowd burst into applause.
Not out of respect.
Not out of excitement.