The answer is: The king and Haman

Esther 7:1

Queen Esther's invitation to the king and Haman at her banquets marks a pivotal moment in the Book of Esther, where the drama intensifies. The story unfolds within the context of the Persian Empire, showcasing Esther's courage and quick thinking, putting her own life on the line to save her people from extinction.

What's fascinating is how Esther planned these banquets with purpose and timing. She didn't invite her guests impulsively; instead, she created a suspenseful build-up, much like a skilled storyteller lays out a plot. One might wonder, why just the two of them? The selection alone communicated a sense of intimacy and urgency, persuading the king to lean in closer to what she had to share.

One notable public trivia is the character of Haman himself, who can serve as a timeless archetype of hubris and villainy. He showed how dangerous unchecked power could be, as his plot to annihilate the Jewish people stemmed from indignation over Mordecai's refusal to bow to him. In contrast, Esther's ascent from an orphan to a queen exemplifies the “rags to riches” trope, peppered with an element of divine intervention.

With Esther's cleverness in staging events to reduce the tension, she ultimately owns her narrative progression, her voice pressing through the oppressions of her society. Today, her story resonates across diverse cultures, celebrating bravery, ingenuity, and the mighty voice of the individual seated at the banquet table.