The King reached the bottom of the grand staircase, turning to face the quiet ballroom while the rest of his family spread out behind him.
"Welcome, everyone," the King said, his voice carrying effortlessly over the large crowd despite him not shouting.
"I am glad to see so many of you could make it on such short notice. I was beginning to worry that the capital's wine cellars had finally run dry, but it seems we still have enough to keep you all happy for one more night."
A polite ripple of laughter moved through the nobles, the tension in the room easing slightly at the King's joke.
"Tonight is a celebration of our kingdom's continued strength," he continued, offering a brief smile. "Eat, drink, and enjoy yourselves. We have much to discuss in the coming days, but for tonight, let us simply enjoy the peace we have earned."
He didn't listen to the rest of the speech, his eyes remaining entirely fixed on the man standing a few steps behind the King.
