"Of course, Wife," Samuel replied smoothly, his deep, resonant voice easily carrying through the thin red silk. "I am a traditional, virtuous man marrying into a highly prestigious military household. I must protect my modesty from the wandering eyes of these corrupt officials."
A few of the younger Vanguard lieutenants in the back actually doubled over, howling with laughter.
"System," Heena thought, her shoulders shaking slightly. "Take a picture of this. Frame it."
"Already on it, Host," the System replied, the sound of digital camera shutters rapidly clicking in her mind. "This is absolute gold."
An attendant approached, carrying a silver tray that held a long red silk ribbon with a massive, intricately tied rosette in the center.
Traditionally, the groom would hold the ribbon and gently lead his veiled, submissive bride into the hall.
Heena picked up the ribbon. She held one end firmly in her hand, and without a shred of hesitation, handed the other end to Samuel.
