The room fell silent after Eiravyn's words, everyone waiting to hear what he had to announce. Serena looked around the hushed ballroom with a trembling heart. She wished for it to be done without any more drama. The air felt thick, as if the entire kingdom held its breath.
"Just like how seasons change in nature, and two people come together for the good and better of the kingdom, we now welcome someone who will rule alongside me." His voice was calm, measured, and it made everyone in the ballroom turn to glance at each other. A ripple of unease passed through the crowd, silk rustling at every side, whispers dying before they could form.
People shuffled on their feet. The tension around the room turned tangible and heavy, pressing against Serena's chest until it was hard to breathe. Her palms went cold. She kept her gaze lowered, counting her heartbeats, praying this would end quickly.
"Your Majesty, did you finally find your mate?"
"And who is she?"
