Papa held me securely in his arms, his grip firm yet gentle, as my eyes sparkled with uncontainable excitement. GIFTS! Oh, glorious, shiny, extravagant gifts! And we all know—no matter who we are, where we come from, or how young we might be—everyone loves gifts.
And since I was an Imperial Princess, I could only imagine the treasures that awaited me.
I wiggled eagerly in Papa's arms, my eyes sparkling with anticipation. Come on, hurry up! I was ready to be showered in riches!
Theon, ever the dramatic announcer, raised his hand with a flourish. "The gifting ceremony shall commence!"
The nobles and officials, lined up like an army of peacocks, straightened their backs. Servants rushed forward, presenting lavishly adorned boxes and velvet-draped trays.
Oh, it will take forever.
But I grinned. Yes, yes, bring me my riches!
