The family, dressed in their luxurious new attire, was ready for the Royal Palace. Lyra, in her elegant gown, was simply stunning, drawing every eye in the room. Adam's heart thumped as she approached him, a breathtaking vision. Focusing on his teleportation, he whisked them to the castle entrance. The guards, surprised by their sudden appearance, nonetheless welcomed them.
Inside, the castle was magnificent, with towering ceilings and cascading chandeliers. Nobles mingled, and many immediately swarmed Adam's family, eager to discuss his unprecedented inventions. Lyra became the center of attention for the male nobles, captivated by her beauty. Little did they know, she was as sharp as she was beautiful.
"I belong to Adam," Lyra declared to a bewildered group of suitors, "and will be his future bride." Her blunt rejection left them speechless. The noblewomen, envious of Lyra's striking looks, nonetheless tried to approach Adam. Lyra, feeling a surge of jealousy, quickly pulled Adam's arm, asserting, "He's taken!" She smirked at the crestfallen noble daughters.
A Royal Welcome and Lyra's Boldness
Just then, the room's attention shifted as the King announced himself. "The reason for this banquet today is to toast to the future of our kingdom!" he declared, raising his glass. "A new genius inventor has arrived among our nobles, signaling a glorious technological revolution for our kingdom!" The nobles cheered.
The King then pointed to Adam, inviting him to stand beside him. He expressed his hope that all nobles would assist Adam and guide him in the kingdom. The crowd erupted in cheers of "Long live the King!" Adam smiled, feeling the immense weight of expectation settle on his shoulders. The King shook his hand, then introduced his son and daughter. His son, a few years older, offered Adam a respectful nod. His daughter, about Adam's age, extended her hand, seemingly for a polite kiss.
Lyra, however, felt a new, profound wave of jealousy. She moved swiftly, stepping in front of Adam and declaring, "I introduce myself as Adam's future bride!" Her daring display in front of the King stunned everyone. The King, however, merely laughed. "You have a fierce one to stand beside you, Adam!" he remarked, his earlier thought of pairing Adam with his daughter now seemingly distant.
Lyra's beauty had captivated not just him but the prince as well. The King then felt a sudden chill, a surge of eeriness from behind him. The Queen stared menacingly, her gaze fixed on her husband's wandering eyes.
"Enjoy the banquet, Adam, and do bring Lyra away," the King said, a hint of genuine amusement and perhaps a touch of fear in his voice. "I feel my life is at risk!" Adam caught a glimpse of the Queen's barely concealed rage behind her smile. "I shall excuse myself with my future bride," Adam replied, pulling Lyra away from the immediate royal drama.
Banquet Success and a Private Summons
As the banquet continued, exquisite cuisine was served, and the owner and chef stood proudly aside, observing. Adam gave them a subtle glance and a grateful smile, which they returned with evident excitement at his acknowledgment. Every bite Adam took was a silent approval to the chef, who beamed with pride, acknowledging the telepathic compliment.
Things proceeded smoothly until the ceremony neared its end. The King invited Adam to his private room, pointedly hinting that Lyra should not accompany him.