"Afraid? I fear nobody!" Enya responded bold. The Mistress grasped her hand, her eyes gleaming mischievously. "Is that so? Then, come." She took Enya toward the Imperial Banquet's entertainment stage. Enya's eyes widened, her brows furrowing anxiously. "M-miss?" she stammered in panic and confusion.
Releasing her to the center of the gathering, the Mistress turned to Enya with a challenge, "Now, come, show me what you're made of. I am the manager of these singing performances. Let's compete and see what you, a young knightess, can do." Enya's eyes darted around, aware of the curious gazes from nobles and guests, as well as the surprised expressions of vocalist ladies and melodists and the dancers.
Upon noticing her, General Void, seated at the special reserved table, furrowed his brows. King Edgar and the commanders observed closely. Abel and Draven were left dumbfounded, while Raven gasped in surprise.
The courtiers, uncertain, approached The Emperor and Empress, who remained ever-vigilant, exhibiting no peculiar reactions and merely observing. They granted permission to the courtiers to allow the performance.
Enya watched as the Mistress began to dance and sing with exuberance, showing off her skills. Enya, however, showed no interest. She tucked her hair back, crossing her arms and held a miffed look, "I can't believe I'll have to do this." The crowded hall made her uncomfortable, with her heart beating fast and she couldn't help but purse her lips in silence glancing at the curious onlookers.
Zayne, amused by the situation, hummed to Arawn beside him, "Hm... Not bad." Arawn, stood apart, composed and undistracted.
The music in the banquet hall paused as the Mistress halted her dance, and tapped Enya's back, pushing her forward to display her talents.
The lady urged, handing a magical flute to Enya, "Now your turn. No lady leaves this stage without sharing their talents, whether it's dancing or singing. Go on now." she sneered.
Enya blinked, her displeasure evident as she reluctantly accepted the flute. Stepping forward, Enya thought, "Is she looking down on me?" Shoving her hairs back once more, she regained her confidence.
As the melodists and performers suddenly took a halt, by the Emperor's command, the hall was filled with anticipation for the performances. "Everything just stopped? Jeez," Enya exclaimed inside. With countless eyes fixed at her, Enya had no choice but to take a deep breath and begin.
She closed her eyes for a breif while, raising the exquisite flute to her lips. At that moment, silence enveloped the hall. Enya's fingers danced upon the flute's silver keys, weaving an enchanting melody that captivated the entire hall.
It was as if the essence of a distant village had sprung to life within the banquet hall, leaving the guests spellbound. The Mistress of Ceremonies who had taunted her was stunned, joined by other performers in the audience.
And then, halting with the flute, Enya began to sing. Her voice carried a captivating and bold tune as she sang,
♪ "In the heart of a town, where the meadows bloom,
I reign as the ruler of this rustic dwell.
With the sun as my crest, and the nature as my guide,
In this vibrant symphony of life, I'll forever abide." ♪
The combination of her flute and voice created an atmosphere of enchantment and wonder.
Guests leaned in closer, their emotions stirred by the performance. All gave applause, lost in the music's embrace, while others exchanged impressed glances.
The Empress smiled warmly, "...I don't mind her participating, even though she wasn't invited..." The Emperor observed in dignified silence, "If you think so...I can't object." he whispered.
General Void couldn't help but sigh in appreciation, a smile forming on his face. The nobles thoroughly enjoyed, and Draven, Raven, and Abel watched wide-eyed in awe. Zayne smiled while Arawn tilted his head slightly, casting a look at Enya as she continued,
♪ "Beneath the vast, azure sky, I take my stride...
With every challenge, I'll rise and try.
For in the nature's embrace, I find my call,
To stand unmatched, never to fall." ♪
As her final notes lingered in the air, the room erupted into applause, a thunderous appreciation that testified to the magic she had produced.
Female guests and perfomers surrounding her broke into cheers and applause. Enya, after soberly concluding her flute tune, raised her arms in the air, cheering along with them.
She joined in the clapping with the other performing ladies, basking in the afterglow of her performance. For her, this was a momentary escape from the complexities of life and a precious moment of utmost joy.
In the midst of the jubilant crowd, Enya's laughter blended with the cheerful teasing, directed at the Mistress of Ceremonies, "So, honourable miss conductor, have you accepted defeat?" Her playful challenge resonated through the hall and was met with cheers from the ladies who had witnessed her triumph.
"I told you, I fear no one," she declared proudly, her grin radiant, tossing her hairs back with a flair movement in pride.
The Mistress of Ceremonies, however, wore a displeased frown, her brows twitching in annoyance as she couldn't accept her loss.
Enya twirled in delight. While her attire and appearance may not have been the most extravagant for a banquet, her beauty shone through her radiant smile, which perfectly matched the lively atmosphere.
Yet, in the midst of this delightful chaos, Enya's gaze fell upon a figure who had, apparently, undergone some change that couldn't escape her notice. Her eyes widened, and her lips parted slightly in surprise as she halted in her steps. Arawn, with his appearance quietly attractive, remained off to the side, yet captured her attention.
Enya couldn't help but grin, her gaze fixed on him surrounded by the enchanting melodies and resounding cheers of the banquet hall.
King Edgar smiled, his approval evident in his warm expression. Even Draven and Raven, who were awed had no words to express. Abel, ever the skeptic, rolled his eyes, though beneath it, a hint of begrudging respect lingered. The Empress chuckled softly, her eyes reflecting amusement, while the Emperor's gaze remained keenly interested.
The nobles and major guests joined in the applause, appreciating the unexpected and lively spectacle that had infused new life into the banquet.
In a quite corner of the bustling banquet, Zayne, turned to face Arawn. His gaze of profound understanding. This time, taking the chance to speak up, Arawn, with his gaze directed downward and facing to the right, spoke, "I hear you returned quite soon..."
A smile played upon Zayne's lips as he replied, "Greetings. What a pleasure to encounter you." he gracefully lowered himself in a bow,
"...It was the Emperor's order. I've met it and now, I shall serve you," he continued.
Arawn turned his back to Zayne, his tone reserved, "...A presence...It's near. We shall attend to it."
Zayne deftly acknowledged, his voice unexpectedly sly and daring, "Noted, Prince. I'll ensure that the shadows lurking outside remain just that—shadows."
A subtle shift rippled through the hall. At the Empress's request, both ladies and gentlemen took the dance floor, breaking tradition. The hall transformed into a ball room with a lively air of elegance and joy, ceating a unique moment for everyone to enjoy. The flikering lights and rhythemic continuation of melodies added more charm.
Enya's eyes lit up in interest as she clapped her hands delighted, "Only if Noah and Ameren were here to witness this," She gasped, her gaze locked at the mersmerizing sight of nobles dancing with their respective partners.
--However, just as Enya noticed Abel accepting a noble lady's hand for a dance, a rather huge boulder fell on her head. Enya's expression twisted into one of utter disgust, and she couldn't help but blurt out, "Blegh."
The Emperor and Empress gazed ahead, their attention fixed on the captivating dances unfolding before them. King Edgar amused chuckled impressed as they conversed.
Suddenly, King Edgar's eyes caught sight of Draven, who stood somewhat stiffly in a distant corner. King Edgar called out to him, "Draven."
Hearing him, Draven stepped towards King Edgar who continued, "What are you doing over there, out in the middle of nowhere? Take a look at Raven over there. She's alone and seems to be troubled. Make sure she's okay. Check on her. Be a gentleman." Draven eyeing Raven at a side alone, in a gape, nodded concerned, "...Sure." he replied. The Empress smiled heartily at the exchange.
Beneath the facade of zest, subtle traces of unease and tension lurked. The Emperor wore a grim expression, shifting his gaze to exchange looks with the court attendants around who dispersed acknowledging. His gaze soon met Zayne, scrutinizing him with a knowing look.
Meanwhile, Arawn and Zayne moved through the crowd, blending seamlessly with the revelry. Their movements were deft and silent.
A subtle tension lingering in the banquet hall, cast a veil of unease over the attendees. Murmured conversations hinted at concerns:
"Do you sense it? Something's amiss."
"Yeah... There's an air of uncertainty about tonight."
Considering the ominous feeling, the two of them exited the hall discreetly.
Outside, guards coordinated with the Emperor and court attendants to ensure security. They employed diversion tactics, had backup ready, and maintained surveillance. They guided guests into the the Palace from the western entrance intead of the front courtyard, all while ensuring a force sheild, protection barrier's integrity.
Arawn and Zayne ventured outside, into the palace courtyard, a tranquil secluded area away from the festivities. The courtyard, dimly lit yet adorned with fragrant blooms, created a serene backdrop. As they moved deeper into the shadows, they sensed a subtle uncertainity in the stillness.
Their silent pursuit of the presence of uncertainty, had not gone unnoticed. Three lurking shady figures, agents from another realm, weren't mere intruders. They served to be highly skilled in the art of detection and a sinister purpose.
Arawn's calm demeanor remained unchanged, having recognized the dark elves' presence from the subtle shifts in the shadows and the faint traces of malevolence in the air, he allowed himself a brief, inward sigh. These were the same elusive spies they had suspected had been infiltrating the banquet hall, likely drawn by rumors of the powerful artifact hidden within its walls.
Realizing that their mission was compromised, the figures chose to lurk behind them like shadows in the relative safety of the courtyard, positioned strategically in a relative safety zone beyond the invisible barrier of protection enveloping the Imperial Palace.
Zayne's keen observation led him to remark, "...It seems that the protection barrier created by the Emperor's men does not allow them to enter. But their following us suggests a deeper purpose – perhaps a abduct for the artifact, covert information about our realm, or even sinister intentions aimed at our harm."
With a swift, practiced motion, Zayne's fingers, nimble and sharp, reached out like a coiled serpent, swiftly closing the gap between them and the figures, always ready to any unexpected motion.
Before any of them could react, the ghoul-like figures emerged from the shadows, making their presence known. The air grew dense and formidable as they fixed their menacing gaze upon Arawn and Zayne, their eyes filled with evil intent.
In a calm yet ominous tone, one of them hissed a threat, leaving no doubt about their deadly presence, "Cooperate, or your realm shall bear the consequences."
Arawn's instincts sharpened. Eyeing the approaching threat from the corner, his right eye narrowed ever so slightly, "...Not on your life." he responded.
Zayne, responding to Arawn's spoken
The shadowy assailants, provoked the wrong way, moved swiftly, acknowledging Arawn and Zayne's silent challenge. Their eyes, infused with resent and malevolence, locked onto their targets, and with a sudden clash, the courtyard transformed into a battleground.
Arawn, foregoing his abilities, dove into rapid, close-quarter combat. Each silent strike of his open palm, a move of deadly precision, delivered forceful thrusts.
Zayne's sneer, marked a menacing makeover. He advanced swiftly. His nails serving as lethal blades, delivered three rapid uppercuts with pinpoint accuracy.
The figures, agile and alert, evaded the strikes with trained reflexes, blending seamlessly with the darkness and employing dark magic. A fierce exchange, exaclated. The moonlight seemed to illuminate each move, keeping the spar at an edge of uncertainity.
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Meanwhile, within the banquet hall, courtiers moved deftly around, positioning themselves at various spots to ensure the safety of guests.
The Emperor's eyes reflected solemnity, though maintaining a reserved facade.
Zayne's gaze remained sharp as he pressed on with his relentless assault. His movements flowed with measured precision, each step taken with a firm resolve.
With breathtaking speed, he crouched low to the ground, unleashing a glamorous dagger blade that shot up like a viper. It deflected the figures' swift spinning strikes and honed in on the trio. The ferocity of his attacks was met with their ruthless strikes, reminiscent of phantoms in the night.
In a burst of flames, Zayne conjured a ring of lethal green flame that encircled the dark elves, leaving them trapped within its scorching embrace, "Lurking in the shadows, biding your time...It's futile to take us on like this. We are enough to even beat the hidden league of yours, Cathartic intruders," he taunted, his tone dripping with confidence. The three ghouls, confined within the searing barrier, gritted, attempting to vanish in an escape bid. However__
"It seems like a lost cause." Arawn's voice slithered through the air, his voice carrying an ominous assurance. With a graceful movement, he flipped backward and reemerged above the figures, his sharp-edged glove seizing them in a silent, iron grip.
Yet, the spies were not as defeated as they seemed. With a cunning maneuver, they unleashed an ethereal blade concealed beneath their cloaks, creating a temporary rift in reality, "Hand over the harp blade," one of them hissed, facing Arawn.
Arawn's eye narrowed, his gaze piercing the divergence. With an unspoken thought, he seemed to wrest control over the rift, itself, as if the very fabric of existence yielded to his unspoken will.
Arawn, took a step forward, his inscrutable gaze sweeping across the courtyard. Seamlessly, he turned on his heel, and behind him, shadows erupted, shrouding the area in eerie darkness.
Beside him, Zayne's demeanor remained unwavering. The courtyard was now concealed in an impenetrable veil, their silhouettes the only visible presence.
In the dimly lit shadows, three dark elves who had faced them moments ago gradually materialized, their forms dissipating with a haunting silence. Like elusive specters, they vanished into the darkness.
Beneath Arawn, a swirling portal emerged, discharging a barrage of additional spies. Slowly, all of them began to fade into silent mist, like phantoms of the night.
Arawn pressed on, his footsteps echoing softly, while Zayne followed suit. Then, as if responding to the shadows, a chilling, damp presence enveloped them from behind.
A monstrous demon materialized from dark energy, its massive form signifying the sinister obstacle of an interrupted mission.
Zayne, observing from a distance maintained his composure. Arawn, undeterred by the looming spectre, continued his unhurried stride. His gaze briefly flickered over it. In a split second, Arawn twirled gracefully, disappearing into a swirling portal that had materialized beneath him.
The demon, now a silhoutte fading against the courtyard's
Just in time, underneath the collosal demon, a gaping portal beckoned with its depths seemingly voracious for the creature__
The courtyard descended into an unsettling stillness.
The palace attendants, stationed near the western entrance, maintained a watchful eye on the unfolding events inside the Palace. They were prepared for any disturbance yet sensing distant commotion, they swiftly made their way toward the courtyard, passing the sheilded barrier. However, upon arrival, what they perceived, was a sight soon left with a residue of fumes and shadows dissipating in the air with no traces of remains left.
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