Chapter 180: The Uninvited Guests
The dance between the king and the princess concluded with an eruption of applause from the captivated crowd. As the music continued and the celebration pressed on, other nobles approached Lady Raychard with confidence.
"Congratulations, Lady Raychard, on your proclamation. May you have a joyous and fulfilling life under the affectionate care of His Royal Highness, the Grand Duke of Gerhard!" one of the nobles greeted warmly, acknowledging Anna’s newfound status.
Sensing Kyren’s absence, the nobles gathered around the princess, eager to offer their well wishes and engage in conversation.
Congratulations poured forth from every direction, and each noble who approached insisted on raising a toast in Anna’s honour. However, the princess politely declined.
"I’m sorry, but I can’t partake in drinking."
A hint of sarcasm laced the response of one noble who couldn’t fathom her reluctance. "Oh...how come you can’t? Since you’ve become such an important figure to His Highness, so now you’re embarrassing us all with this rejection?"
Before Anna could respond, the noble pushed a drink toward her, and the rest of the nobles insisted on her acceptance. She became nervous and hesitated at the urges. However, before she could react, a large hand swiftly intercepted the glass, preventing it from reaching her delicate fingers.
"I shall toast with you," King Kyden interjected. "As the lady cannot drink for health reasons, I will gladly take her place. In fact, as a token of my appreciation, I propose to toast to everyone individually. How does that sound?" the king offered, his words carrying an air of regal charm and generosity.
The nobles exchanged glances. Their cunning expressions immediately changed at the king’s words. The nobles dared not reject his suggestion. Their compliance was evident as they raised their glasses and clinked them together in unison.
Following the king’s orders, a servant expertly poured wine into each noble’s glass, ensuring the ceremonial gesture was duly observed. King Kyden had anticipated that some nobles might seize this opportunity to mock or belittle Anna, but he swiftly intervened, not allowing such behaviour to tarnish the moment.
As the toasts continued, the effects of the drinks began to take their toll on King Kyden. His face flushed crimson, betraying his lack of tolerance for alcohol. Observing her husband’s condition, Queen Emelda quickly approached him, linking her arm with his in a supportive manner.