Chapter 198: Titles Buried Beneath Titles
Marcus regarded Aldric for a moment after the question was asked.
Then he gave a quiet huff of amusement and lifted his glass once more.
"It is rather obvious," he said.
The firelight shifted softly across the room as he spoke, shadows moving against the carved walls and polished shelves.
"To anyone actually observing, at least."
Aldric frowned faintly.
Marcus took another sip before continuing.
"Princess Lyria's expression gave her away several times during the announcement," he said. "She tried to conceal her displeasure, but one who observed closely would notice."
"Julian's poem was beautiful," Marcus continued calmly. "Extremely so. I would never deny that."
Aldric nodded once.
"But it did not fully accomplish the task presented."
The guard looked thoughtful at that.
Marcus leaned back slightly further into his chair.
