Once the Duke left the hall, the celebrations fully resumed.
A gentle melody filled the General Ashenlocke Hall as the orchestra continued playing.
The music spread through the gathering, blending with the conversations of the nobles and the occasional clink of glasses.
The tension that had accompanied Duke Valentine's announcements gradually eased, allowing the guests to return to the purpose of the gathering.
Servants of Ash moved between the guests, carrying trays filled with different varieties of wine and fruit wine.
Most of the drinks intended for those below eighteen were non-alcoholic fruit wines, prepared for the younger members of the Family.
At one end of the hall, a long buffet had been arranged with an assortment of first-class dishes. The desserts occupied a separate section, where cakes, pastries, and other sweets had been neatly displayed.
