As evening descended upon the city, the golden light of the setting sun spilled through the high windows of the great hall
The guests, who had gathered for the coronation, now found themselves drawn into the grand feast that followed.
At the head of the hall, the table of honor was elevated above the others, draped in crimson and gold. Alpheo sat there, placed in a seat of prominence beside Jasmine, his eyes sweeping over the lavish display. To his left was Lord Shahab, who barely looked at him occasionally.
To the right of the old lord sat Jasmine's mother, the dowager princess, her face serene but her eyes sharp, her eyes many times looking at the young man, who now was his son in law. She exchanged quiet remarks with Shahab from time to time , who rewarded her with a small smile, that only a father could give
