Chapter 184: Royal Assembly (1)
The nobles began arriving one at a time, each one arriving in grand style. With every arrival, the master of ceremonies would announce them to the people already around, gathering stares of various kinds.
However, as much as everything seemed elegant and proper on the outside, there was a silent pressure on the shoulders of the people gathered in the ceremonial and grand halls of the king. Everyone knew something was going to happen, just not how.
The grand hall shimmered under the soft glow of the enchanted chandeliers, their crystal facets scattering light across the vaulted ceiling. Tall, arched windows framed the night sky, and moonlight poured in to mingle with the warm golden hue of the chandeliers.
Banners bearing royal insignias swayed gently above, and a crimson carpet stretched from the towering double doors to the thrones at the far end. The atmosphere was rich with the scent of polished wood, blooming night roses, and the subtle spice of a royal feast waiting beyond.
Music emanated from the royal bards, their tunes and rhythm reaching everyone present. They recounted tales of the past glories of the Luntheria Kingdom, recognising the names and places of historical significance.
Inside, the ceremonial knights took their positions in the guard gallery, silently bearing witness to the history in the making. Those on the ground mingled quietly and had brief conversations with the nearby guests. Beside every noble family was their commander, who accompanied them wherever they went.
Most of the guests had already arrived, with the exception of a few. Among those yet to have arrived was Silvia Erindor, Duchess of the Therindor Duchy. This was a woman well-known among her circle, a woman who kept to herself and wasn’t afraid to put anyone in their place.
Arriving in style, the duchess grabbed everyone’s attention, as both the men and women could not help but turn her way. Dressed in an elegant silver-white evening gown that highlighted her assets.
Everywhere she passed, she drew gazes in her direction. Whispers and murmurs went around as people wondered what had changed about the duchess. More than looking worried or alert, the duchess looked relaxed.
A few among the noble class had already identified her source of confidence. But in Duchess Erindor’s defence, she had made no attempts to hide her new relationship. It was simply a matter of the people she interacted with.
"Ah, Duchess Erindor. It’s been a while." Silvia directed her gaze to the noble who called out to her.
’Duke Darelle...’ The duchess’s eyes narrowed for a split second and then disappeared, replaced by a charming smile. ’Even in a place like this, he refuses to tone down his arrogance.’