Setting aside the experiences and feelings of those directly involved, last night's Rivalry Banquet had undoubtedly been a great success: it was grand in scale, thoughtful in its hospitality, graced by distinguished guests, and filled with a lively atmosphere. The final celebratory fireworks had been dreamlike and fantastical, and most of the guests who visited the Empty Palace had left satisfied and thoroughly entertained.
Moreover, as the Heir to the Kingdom, Duke Tales's long journey to attend the celebration proved that Emerald City—and even the entire southern bank—possessed deep roots and foundations within the Kingdom, bringing honor to Duke Jann and the Cavendish Family.
As for Miss Hilaire's grand appearance in full dress and her climactic entrance, that had been an especially dazzling highlight. She had stunned everyone, provoked an intense response, and earned endless praise and discussion from attendees from the Seven Seas and every corner of the world, giving rise to a fashion trend that was both mysterious and natural.
From the moment Duke Jann announced the beginning of the celebration at midnight, the entire Emerald City had fallen into the rhythm of revelry:
Every tavern and inn had been packed to bursting. The owners had been forced to add seats outside and bring out food and drink stockpiled three months in advance, launching supposedly discounted deals and supposedly premium set meals. Minstrels had taken to the streets; all they needed to do was wave from a crowded place and strike up a tune to summon a grand chorus in countless accents, forcing even more people to join in and drown out the off-key wailing. Even the worst street performers, with the shoddiest skills and least professionalism, could earn a round of applause and a few sympathetic coppers as long as they had loud voices, sang and danced,