A Convincing Argument

Rosalie flinched when she felt someone's heavy hand rest on her delicate shoulder. Instinctively, she turned her head around, only to find Theodore Xarden towering over her. His impeccable yet slightly fatigued features bore a subtle hint of contentment as his deep, narrow eyes swept over Rosalie's bewildered expression.

The men in the vicinity widened their eyes, struggling to grasp the unexpected turn of events. They exchanged frantic and lost glances among themselves, succumbing to the awkward silence brought about by Theo's sudden appearance.

A few moments later, the nearby crowd started buzzing with hushed whispers. Their curious and somewhat judgemental gazes subtly shifted toward the man standing behind Grand Duchess Dio.

"Goodness, is that really Lord Theodore Xarden? This is the first time in years I have seen him at a banquet!"