After Queen Selene's departure, Orion's encounters grew sparse, limited to occasional run-ins with Conrad and the various Clan Heirs who had seemingly made a swift recovery in time for the closing banquet. He hadn't spotted Maya or Merida, or he would have certainly engaged with them.
Deciding to enjoy the remaining moments of the banquet, Orion immersed himself in the festivities until its conclusion. The King and Queen delivered their speeches, and as the event came to an end, Orion joined the royal family in exiting the grand hall, as a special guest of the royal family.
As they proceeded toward the exit, where their carriage awaited, Orion was suddenly hailed from behind by a familiar voice.
"Wait a minute!"
Orion spun around, his curiosity piqued as he observed Merida sprinting in his direction.
