However, despite this, the fiery gazes exchanged between the two attracted even greater attention among the nobles present. Of course, there were those who hoped Rafael would win, as not every noble favored the connections of the royal Shabak; they simply wanted to witness the scene of the second prince being humiliated, adopting an indifferent attitude since it didn't concern them.
The second prince had never been one to accept the short end of the stick, yet today he behaved like a gentleman and did not demand a coin toss. Instead, he smiled genteelly and made a welcoming gesture, inviting Rafael to break first.
Rafael also smiled back at Shabak with a nod. He rarely showed such a sincere smile; it was not merely a feeling of resonance. Compared to mutual understanding, his smile was more akin to gratitude for a predecessor.
