The rest of the banquet passed peacefully. The guests came over to congratulate Solis and Noir politely, and no one tried to shake hands with them or touch them in any way. After all, the consequences of that had been adequately demonstrated.
Auntie Ela and Jovis approached them again after some time. This time, they had a couple servants trailing behind them with several large baskets.
"Congratulations on your engagement, Solis and Noir," Auntie Ela said softly. "I wish you a happy relationship and many years of togetherness."
"Thank you, Auntie Ela," Noir said politely.
"I got you some small gifts," she said, indicating the baskets behind her.
Solis frowned. "I specifically said 'no gifts' on the invitation," he said. "Please take them back."
Auntie Ela froze. "But…these are things from the farms," she said. "You've liked these for years, Solis…"
