The crowds of guests continued to stream through the palace gates. Decorated carriages, each more splendid than the last, arrived in an unending procession, bearing Victor's guests from across the land.
Whispers fluttered behind the women's handheld fans, like secretive butterflies. The dazzling array of outfits and elaborate hairstyles made it clear that the primary objective was to draw as many admiring glances as possible. It was a silent battlefield where elegance served as the weapon and vanity as the fuel.
In the other hand, The men exchanged more meaningful conversations, trying to use the event to strengthen their relationships or establish new ones. It was an opportunity for everyone to take advantage of. Unlike the others, the merchants were the most active attendees, their experience didn't let them leave any new face without trying to learn everything about them, as opportunities like these did not come often.
For the representatives of the three rival families, the evening was an opportunity to assess the unity of the Kylian family. Any fissures in their solidarity would be evident here, especially in their support for their leader, Victor.
Though their presence was permitted, they were clearly under watchful eyes, akin to spies granted permission to observe. Conversely, the Kylian family's intention in allowing these outsiders was to showcase their strength and confirm their internal cohesion. It was as though they were inviting the enemy to inspect the might of a weapon that could be turned against them if necessary.
At last, Chancellor Philip emerged to welcome the guests. In his long formal attire, with a sharp gaze and focused features, he walked from the palace gates towards the assembly, accompanied by an aide who carried a list of guests and a prepared speech. Philip had ensured his aide was well-versed in the identities of all attendees to avoid any embarrassing oversights.
The two approached the throne prepared for Victor. The aide called out to the attendees, his voice rising above the whispers and hushed murmurs, "Dear guests... We are honored by your presence and your acceptance of Governor Victor's invitation... Chancellor Philip requests your attention for a moment... Please listen."
A hush fell over the crowd as all eyes turned towards the platform, responding to the call. Silence finally prevailed, allowing Philip to speak in his coarse voice.
Philip coughed slightly to prepare his throat, lowered his hand, and said, "Welcome, everyone... We are pleased to have you here this year on a special occasion for all of us... the anniversary of the founding of our family by the great father Kylian... We have done our utmost under ruler Victor's supervision to make this grand event successful... We hope you all enjoy your time here... We have prepared a banquet in your honor... Please help yourselves, and after the banquet, the ruler and his family will come out to great you... Enjoy."
As soon as Philip finished his words, his aide signaled the musicians to start playing and entertain the guests with melodies.
The violins indeed began, signaling the start of the banquet, accompanied by the movement of feet towards the prearranged tables. Within minutes, the sound of clinking glasses and laughter filled the place.
Philip stepped aside, his duty completed for the time being, now just waiting for the main figure of the event to appear.
The sounds of celebration reverberated through the palace walls, bringing a smile to Victor's face. He was ready, poised for his grand entrance. Seated in a large, exquisitely adorned chair, he exuded an air of authority with his left leg crossed over the right and his hands resting on the chair's high sides. His features were focused and stern. Clad in a white formal suit, a magnificent silver necklace around his neck served as the ruler's crown, a symbol of his power. Victor sat in anticipation, prepared for his moment to meet his people.
As the evening progressed, the clatter of dishes and glasses outside gradually faded, replaced by the harmonious melodies that enveloped the atmosphere.
The gathered guests, their anticipation palpable, awaited the grand appearance of their ruler, wondering when he would finally grace them with his presence.
Philip, ever the meticulous steward, signaled to a cadre of servants orchestrating the event. With a swift, practiced efficiency, they moved among the guests, extending invitations to be seated.
The seating had been meticulously arranged according to the guests' status and importance. Walkways separated the seats, creating an arrangement that reflected the social hierarchy: the most powerful in the family, the wealthy, and the nobles closest to the platform, followed by the politicians overseeing the family's affairs and military leaders, then the merchants and representatives of other families.
The servants deftly guided the guests to their pre-assigned seats, a process that took some time.
In a private chamber, a guard approached ruler Victor. After offering a respectful bow, he announced, "It is time, sir... everyone is waiting for you."
Victor, with a calm resolve, replied, "Alright... I will be there in a moment."
Victor took a moment to collect his thoughts, pushing aside any lingering doubts. He stood tall, straightened his regal attire, took a deep breath, and exhaled slowly. "Let's do this," he murmured, steeling himself with quiet determination.
With a measured and deliberate stride, Victor exited his room, heading towards the palace's main entrance. The first sight that greeted him was August, beaming in his new armor.
Beside him stood Margaret, elegant in her black dress, and a bit further away, their daughter Sophy, radiant in a sky-blue gown that highlighted her golden hair.
The sight of his family bolstered Victor's confidence and lifted his spirits higher than ever before. The daunting task of facing the crowds seemed less formidable.
He advanced steadily towards them, and upon reaching them, raised his left hand in a graceful motion, signaling Margaret to take his arm and walk with him.
After a brief exchange of supportive glances, the couple aligned themselves, turned towards the door, and took a collective breath, readying themselves to step outside.
Margaret whispered to Victor, "Shall we go now... I am ready."
August stood behind his father, and Sophy behind her mother. The family moved towards the grand exit door to the platform. A contingent of guards formed up behind them, while two others ceremoniously opened the door.
As the doors swung open, Philip and his assistant took their places on the platform. Philip remained to the side, while his assistant stepped forward to announce, "Dear guests... please join me in welcoming our leader, Victor, and his family."
In unison, the entire assembly rose to their feet, eyes eagerly fixed on the palace entrance.
Victor and Margaret took their first step onto the red carpet laid out in their honor, prompting a cascade of fireworks to illuminate the night sky in dazzling colors. The musicians struck up a grand tune, befitting the ruler's majestic entrance.
With dignified and synchronized steps, the family slowly advanced towards the throne platform, their every move watched intently by the guests.
It was a rare opportunity to observe the ruling family up close. The new attendees and key leaders focused on the mighty ruler Victor, while the representatives of other families scrutinized the heir, August.
Among the crowd, several women and
young men, eager to forge stronger ties and win favor with Victor, found themselves captivated by the idea of marrying Sophy, drawn not only by her status but also by her enchanting beauty.
Time seemed to slow to a crawl, each step taken with deliberate precision. Every firework that burst into the sky was met with a crescendo of applause from all corners of the square, harmonizing with the sweet melodies that filled the air. Victor waved graciously to the audience, his smile one of serene authority, a smile befitting a true ruler.
The family reached the edge of the platform and stood tall, their presence commanding. This was the moment everyone had been eagerly anticipating.
Meanwhile, Maxim and Amelia made their way to stand beside the trusted advisor Philip. The seasoned warrior Mindara, a figure of formidable repute, just arrived at the ceremony. They were the elite guardians of the event, a formidable presence bolstered by a considerable number of lower-ranked guards, hunters, and warriors.
As the warm applause echoed through the night, Victor raised his hand to signal its end. An impeccable silence descended upon the square, and all eyes and ears were fixed, poised to catch the ruler's first words.