Arren wasn't ready to hope again. His countless experiences were what made him afraid to do so again. Fortunately, his appearance didn't turn out to be a big deal; at least, they all resumed what they were talking about after the short episode he created.
He suddenly fell into an awkward position as he stood next to his father. After all, he wasn't expecting this to happen. Now that he was there, it would be harder to escape or even return to his table earlier.
Having no choice, if he did leave, not only was it rude but it even looked so obvious that he was uncomfortable, he sat next to his father. Arren had decided to keep silent for the duration of the banquet and then think of a way to sneak off later.
The banquet then started with a few greetings for the mother empress. He was also so occupied by the people he knew that he had no time to bother others. Arren barely finished the food, which was a small portion of servings to begin with, as he had no appetite.
