The Prince's Arranged Marriage
Chapter 30: Celebratory Dinner

Chapter 30: Celebratory Dinner

As the morning meeting concluded, the weight of the discussions still lingered in Lucien’s mind. The tour had provided him with invaluable insight into Veridia’s struggles, and now it was time to act. However, for the rest of the day, his focus had to shift to the grand celebratory dinner marking the completion of the first leg of the tour.

Lucien returned to his chambers, greeted by the sight of his attendants already bustling about, preparing his attire for the evening. The dinner was not just a formality—it was a statement. Every detail, from the food to the attire, would be scrutinized by the royal court and beyond.

His personal valet, Cedric, approached with a knowing look. "Your Highness, I have prepared a selection of attire for the evening." He gestured toward the garments laid out.

Lucien’s outfit was a deep sapphire blue, embroidered with silver filigree along the cuffs and collar, evoking the constellations that adorned Veridia’s night sky. A silver brooch in the shape of the royal crest sat at the center of his chest, a reminder of his duty. The fabric was lightweight yet regal, flowing elegantly with his movements. His boots, polished to perfection, completed the ensemble.

He turned to Alexander, who was being attended to by his own valet. Alexander’s attire complemented his own, a midnight black ensemble with gold embroidery tracing the lines of Avaloria’s royal insignia. The contrast between their outfits was intentional—unity through distinction.

As the evening approached, Lucien found himself growing restless. The dinner was a stage, a performance in which he had to play his role flawlessly. He glanced at Alexander, who met his gaze with an unreadable expression. They had come far since the beginning of the tour, yet the unspoken tensions remained.

---

The grand dining hall was a masterpiece of opulence, illuminated by towering chandeliers that cast golden light across the polished marble floors. The long banquet table, adorned with silk runners and fresh floral arrangements, stretched across the room. Nobles and dignitaries from across Veridia and Avaloria were already in attendance, their conversations a soft hum of anticipation.

King Christopher and Queen Alicia stood at the head of the room, their regal presence commanding attention. As Lucien and Alexander entered side by side, a hush fell over the crowd before polite applause followed.

Lucien took his seat beside Alexander, their positions at the royal table symbolic of their alliance. Across from them sat Lady Genevieve, ever observant, and Sir Aldric Fairmont, the chief royal press officer, who offered Lucien a knowing nod.

The dinner commenced with a toast from King Christopher. He rose from his seat, goblet in hand, his voice resonant with authority. "Tonight, we celebrate not just the conclusion of the first leg of the royal tour, but the unity and strength of our kingdoms. Prince Lucien, Prince Alexander, your efforts have not gone unnoticed. Your dedication has fostered goodwill among our people, and for that, we are grateful."

A murmur of approval swept through the hall as goblets were raised. Lucien inclined his head in acknowledgment, but the weight of his father’s words pressed upon him.

Throughout the evening, he engaged in conversations with various members of the royal court. Lord Everard, an influential noble, leaned in with a pointed question. "Prince Lucien, you have seen much of Veridia in these past months. What is your greatest takeaway from the tour?"

Lucien took a measured sip of his wine before responding. "That the strength of a kingdom lies not just in its grandeur, but in the well-being of its people. I have seen resilience, but I have also seen struggle. It is a reminder that prosperity must be shared, not hoarded."

His words earned a thoughtful nod from some, and a wary glance from others.

Alexander, who had been quiet for most of the evening, interjected smoothly. "It is precisely why Avaloria stands ready to assist. A partnership is only as strong as its foundation, and our goal is to ensure that both our kingdoms thrive."

Lucien cast him a sidelong glance. There was no trace of arrogance in Alexander’s tone—only sincerity.

As the evening progressed, it was Lucien’s turn to speak. He stood, the weight of the room’s attention settling upon him. "This journey has been one of understanding. I have walked the streets of our cities, spoken to our people, and witnessed both their joys and their hardships. It is my hope that this tour is not merely seen as a diplomatic formality, but as the beginning of real change."

The applause that followed was polite but not overwhelming. Lucien knew that words were only the first step—action had to follow.

The final speech came from Alexander. "I echo Prince Lucien’s sentiments. This alliance is not merely political—it is a commitment to our people. And as we move forward into the next phase of this journey, I look forward to what we will accomplish together."

The evening carried on with measured revelry, but Lucien could not shake the thoughts that lingered in his mind. The first leg of the tour had concluded, but the real work was only just beginning.