A while later, the crowd around Lucien had thickened, especially with girls from various noble houses now bravely stepping forward. The earlier reluctance had melted into eagerness, and one by one, girls offered their gifts to the young heir of House Velebrandt. From enchanted books and rare mana-ink pens to finely crafted amulets imbued with elemental resistance, the array of presents was dazzling.
Some girls, more bold than others, asked personal questions.
"Young Lord Lucien... do you perhaps already have a girl you fancy in your heart?" asked a girl with amber curls and a voice like windchimes. Her eyes sparkled nervously.
Lucien blinked, slightly overwhelmed, but maintained his regal calm. "Ah... I'm afraid the only woman in my heart right now is my mother. She'd scold me otherwise," he said with a gentle smile. Laughter rippled through the group of girls, a mix of amusement and relief.
