The banquet soon went into full swing.
Music floated through the hall as nobles moved from group to group, but the main crowd stayed gathered around Evangeline. One after another, they approached her with smiles, congratulations, and finely wrapped gifts. Maids moved efficiently at her side, collecting the presents and stacking them neatly to one corner of the hall.
Evangeline handled everyone perfectly—laughing at the right moments, offering polite thanks, and dropping just enough sharp comments to keep the mood lively.
On the other side of the hall, however, something else was happening.
Everyone who passed by Arthur gave him a look full of pity, as if they were seeing a homeless beggar that had somehow wandered into the palace.
A middle-aged noble gently pushed his plate toward Arthur.
"Eat all you like, son," he said kindly. "I'm sure it's your first time seeing this much food."
Another woman nodded in encouragement.
