Chapter 328.1
On the opening night of the grand banquet, the restless tension that had lingered since the king’s sudden departure dissolved into a serene calm within the banquet hall. Princess Anika, now Queen, often sought solace in solitary moments within the Holy City. Hence, it raised no eyebrows that Eugene also lingered in the city during this eventful period.
Yet, just as no one had foreseen Eugene parting ways with the king – an action that had befallen the previous Anika who married into the royal lineage – similarly, nobody could fathom Eugene’s impending decision. The king’s abrupt return to the kingdom and Eugene’s obligation to partake in the Celestial Festival left no room for alternatives but acceptance. All the while, unbeknownst to the assembly, subtle shifts were taking shape within their perspectives.
“A pleasure to see you, Miss Selina.”
“It’s an honor to meet you, Lady Anika. This exquisite banquet is my first.” The young lady greeted with a blush-painted countenance, her excitement vividly displayed.
Ordinarily, starting at sixteen, youths attended social affairs under parental escort. Yet, attending evening galas was off-limits until they came of age. Today, the young lady would have to leave the banquet hall before twilight blanketed the skies.
Eugene found the girl’s sparkling gaze endearing, kindling a more extended exchange between them.
Turning aside, Eugene brought her hand to her mouth, gently manipulating her lips with her fingertips, relieving the strain that constant smiling had inflicted on her muscles. After days of upholding a facade of constant cheer, she feared her face might lock into an involuntary grimace.
Her surveying gaze, which had been skimming across the attendees, came to a halt. In the distance, Riner stood solitary, a glass of wine in hand. Every time her glance returned to him, he remained unaccompanied. The crowd seemed to steer clear of him, and he exhibited no inclination to blend in.
Myung King’s presence had been limited to the inaugural day. After Kaiser’s departure, Myung King had promptly taken his leave as well. He bid Eugene adieu, explaining his brief stay due to his mother’s ailing health.