Following the announcement and the reveal of the fiancé, the party carried on, but the atmosphere had shifted. Conversations continued, laughter echoed, and music played, yet a subtle tension lingered, threading through the guests as if the room itself had taken note of the change.
The tension wasn't very high, but there was a clear divide as a noticeable shift occurred among the guests.
If the Prince's faction held a slight advantage moments prior, that was no longer the case, as a clear shift had occurred in the succession battle.
With Julien officially becoming the son-in-law of the Rosenberg Household, and in turn gaining the allegiance of the current Head of Central and the strongest Duchy around, the momentum had shifted entirely to Aoife's side.
"I wish you the best, Princess."
"…Thank you. That's very kind of you."
The nobles who had been undecided just moments before now clustered around her, striking up conversations as she responded with a carefully measured smile.
