Lyman's residence in the Royal Capital blazed with light.
In the banquet hall, lilting music mingled with the nobles' laughter and conversation. Beneath lavish crystal chandeliers, figures moved to and fro, raising their glasses in toast.
Almost all the excitement centered on Count Lyman.
But a small handful of shrewd guests had set their sights on the rising star, Weilin Klein.
He stood alone in a corner with a glass of red wine, his gaze unfocused, his thoughts a mystery.
"Baron Veylin, your understanding of the doctrine truly puts me to shame. You are God's most devout believer!"
A newly elevated baron raised his glass, his face flushed, trying to work his way into Veylin's circle.
Veylin gave a slight nod and lightly touched glasses with him, producing a clear clink.
"You flatter me, sir. I merely stated facts already present in the Holy Scripture."
No sooner had he finished speaking than a waft of perfume reached him.
A countess renowned for her enduring charms approached with graceful steps and stopped before Veylin.
Her eyes danced, and her voice was seductive.
"My lord baron, the priest at my estate recently retired to his hometown. I wonder whether you might be interested in... guiding me through the Holy Scripture in your spare time?"
The blatant insinuation drew looks mingling jealousy and envy from several male nobles nearby.
He offered the countess a polite smile.
"You jest, madam. With my meager knowledge, I wouldn't dare lead anyone astray."
The refusal was crisp and decisive, without the slightest hesitation.
The smile on the countess's face stiffened for an instant, but she quickly recovered. She turned away gracefully and began searching for her next worthwhile investment.
On the other side of the banquet hall, Lilia stood beside Marchioness Audrey.
Her heart raced, her little