The early morning sun shone through the reception hall window, casting spots of light on the wooden floor.
Dust motes floated in the air, along with the smell of wood wax.
Caroline sat upright in the main seat. She had changed into a practical riding skirt, the dark blue fabric clinging to the curves of her body, and on her feet were a pair of well-made, black tall boots.
She wasn't looking at anyone else, merely tapping her fingertips lightly on the tabletop, creating a monotonous beat.
She was waiting, waiting for that Pioneer Knight to present his so-called new discovery.
Then, she would prove it utterly worthless.
The door was pushed open.
Velin walked in.
Behind him was Xiaolan, cradling an object covered with a linen cloth.
"Vice President Channing, good morning. My apologies for the wait."
Velin's voice was perfectly calm.
He gestured for Xiaolan to place the object on the table, then pulled away the linen cloth.
A strange instrument made of brass and crystal.