The laughter from Ryan's playful challenge still lingered in the banquet hall, but the mood had shifted. What started as fun had now become something more serious. The young nobles spoke carefully, as if every word mattered, and Ryan could sense the change in the air.
Leo Lionhart, the Crown Prince, leaned back in his chair, his voice carrying both confidence and authority. "The Lionhart family has always served the crown," he said. "My father says it's not just a title we inherit, but a responsibility we must prove worthy of every day."
Ryan noticed the deference in the others' gazes as Leo spoke. Even Vivienne and Julian seemed to respect his words. Leo clearly carried the weight of his status with ease.
Julian, eager to recover from his earlier embarrassment, quickly added, "It's the same for all of us, isn't it? Even in the countryside, your family must feel the pressure, right, Ryan?"
Ryan smiled, meeting Julian's gaze. "Everyone faces expectations," he replied smoothly. "But my family believes in showing strength through action, not just words. Quiet strength."
Vivienne Rosenthorne's eyes gleamed with curiosity. She leaned forward slightly. "Quiet strength, indeed," she murmured. "And yet, your family's influence has grown quickly. It's impressive."
Ryan felt the probing nature of Vivienne's words. She wasn't just complimenting him—she was digging for information. He wasn't about to give anything away. "It's kind of you to say," Ryan answered calmly. "We've been fortunate. A few good harvests, favorable trade… nothing more."
Vivienne studied him for a moment but didn't press further. Ryan knew she was the type to gather information quietly, watching for any slip. He kept his guard up.
Leo, who had been silent, turned his sharp gaze on Ryan. "Fortune or not," Leo said, "people are noticing the Duskveil family's rise. In times like these, alliances matter more than anything else."
Ryan felt the subtle challenge in Leo's words. "You're absolutely right, Your Highness," Ryan replied respectfully. "Strong alliances are the foundation of success. That's what my family strives for."
Leo studied him for a moment before nodding. "A wise approach."
The tension seemed to ease slightly, though Ryan knew the conversation was far from over. Vivienne was still watching him, her curiosity far from satisfied. Before she could continue, Seraphina Pendragon finally spoke.
"Fortune favors the prepared," she said softly, her eyes meeting Ryan's. "And it seems the Duskveil family has been well prepared."
Ryan met her gaze, sensing there was something more behind her words. Her expression was calm, but there was a glimmer in her eyes—something she wasn't saying.
Before Ryan could respond, the large doors at the far end of the banquet hall opened. A Pendragon household messenger entered, his face serious as he approached.
"The Duke has requested a private meeting with Lord and Lady Duskveil," the messenger announced, "and Lady Seraphina."
Ryan saw a flicker of something in Seraphina's eyes—maybe surprise—but it vanished quickly. She rose gracefully, a small smile on her lips. "It seems I'm needed elsewhere," she said lightly.
As Ryan's parents and Seraphina followed the messenger out of the hall, Ryan remained seated, his thoughts racing. The playful atmosphere of the banquet was gone, replaced by unease. What could the Duke want with his parents—and why was Seraphina involved?
Ryan's gaze lingered on the door after they had disappeared. He knew whatever was happening, it was important. He took a breath, glancing around the banquet hall. The other nobles had returned to their conversations, but Ryan could still feel some of their eyes on him—curious, watchful.
to be continued....