The Price is Everything of Yours (76 Chapters Left to Complete) - Chapter 223

The banquet hall, to which the couple descended fully dressed, was already packed with people.

Representatives of the most important families in Maindlant had gathered, adorned in their finest garments and splendid jewels. Among them were figures Neris hadn’t seen earlier at the castle gates, as well as individuals from distant regions who must have traveled long and hard just to arrive here.

Neris was momentarily taken aback—the first dinner at the castle had seemed like a simple affair among close acquaintances, yet this was far more grand. Cledwin, who was escorting her, chuckled softly.

“Why?”

Had she known so many people would attend in formal attire, she would have paid closer attention to her own appearance. Neris shot her husband a sidelong glance.

“Why are there so many people?”

“Does it bother you? Shall I send everyone away except a few? It wouldn’t be bad to invite them in groups, one each day.”

Though he spoke as if joking, Cledwin’s eyes gleamed dangerously, as if ready to carry it out at a moment’s notice. Neris gave him another look and scanned the room.

Along both sides of the long table used for formal banquets, senior officials and vassal lords were seated in strict order of rank. At the far end, two adjacent empty seats awaited—Neris took the first, followed by Cledwin.

Though initially flustered, this wasn’t Neris’s first time presiding over such gatherings. She sat upright with perfect composure.

Everyone present had seen Neris in her role as advisor, but this was her debut as Grand Duchess. Anyone who might have suspected she’d appear awkward was instantly proven wrong.

Her calmness was so regal it could have convinced one she’d ruled them for ages—cool yet serene, and with eyes that missed no one.

She effortlessly commanded the atmosphere of the room, in a way distinct from when she was merely the respected advisor.

Hilbrin gave a proud little cough. Clearly eager to speak, Neris granted him the floor first.

“You’ve worked hard, returning just in time to join us for dinner.”

Read full content of this chapter on r e d c a t t y . c o m