It was a nice feast really, the inner court was pleasant fto the eye and honestly it was just as I imagined.
The grand hall was a marvel to behold, its white walls emanating an air of purity and goodness. Elaborate chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting a warm glow over the room. Everywhere one looked, servants scurried about carrying platters of delicious food and glasses of fine wine. Despite the opulent surroundings, I couldn't shake being constantly watched. It was unnerving, but the delectable dishes on my plate helped to alleviate my discomfort for a brief moment.
As much as I wanted to enjoy the company of those around me, I couldn't deny that they were all incredibly dull. The conversations were forced and lacked any real substance. However, the girls who approached me were a pleasant sight to behold. Their eyes glistened with admiration as they spoke to me, but I knew better than to entertain their advances. Any romantic encounter would surely result in their father demanding my hand in marriage, and I had no desire to be known as a man who defiled women's purity, so it was better for the night to look for women among the lower class.
So knowing that , I would offer them kind words and tell a charming story before gracefully excusing myself to mingle with others, all while pretending to be genuinely interested in their company.
As I held onto my cup of wine, the cold glass chilled my fingers while the rich aroma of the drink filled my senses. Suddenly, a warm hand landed on my shoulder and I turned to see Alistair's familiar white hair and welcoming smile.
"Hey Favian, happy to see you here. How are you?" He asked, his eyes darting towards my stomach where he surely remembered seeing me covered in bandages last time.
"Hey, everything is alright, thanks for asking. I've been recovering steadily and feeling like new," I replied with a genuine smile. Among the snobby nobles at this feast, Alistair was one of the few tolerable ones. After all, he had helped me when I was knocked out in the dungeon, so I knew he wasn't just another pompous ass.
"Are you enjoying the feast?" he asked, extending his hand to grab a cup from a nearby servant's tray.
"It's decent enough. The food is good and the drink are enjoyable . Unfortunately, I feel like an animal on display. All eyes seem to be on me," I remarked.
"Well, I would have liked to say it's because of your looks, but I think it's more for what you've accomplished," Alistair chuckled and I joined in.
"Many girls have certainly approached me," I added between sips of my drink.
"It's not just girls who want to talk to you.I was sent to ask if you could come meet two esteemed guests who are eager to meet the man behind the legend," Alistair revealed.
"May I know who they are?" I raised an eyebrow curiously.
"I don't see no reason not to tell you..." Alistair replied with a smile. "They are Sir Elarion Vaelin and Sir Renard Duskguard, two of our four War Saints from our kingdom. They've heard of your recent exploits and are eager to meet you. Unfortunately, the other two could not make it for the feast."
I couldn't deny my lack of surprise. After all, if I were in their shoes, I too would want to meet myself. I mean I was just marvelous..
"I would be honored to meet them," I replied sincerely.
Alistair nodded in satisfaction. "Excellent. They're currently at the far end of the hall, near the royal dais. Shall we?"
With a nod, I followed Alistair through the crowded hall, my heart pounding with anticipation. As we approached the royal dais, I caught sight of the two War Saints standing tall and proud, their presence commanding attention even amidst the bustling feast.
Sir Elarion Vaelin stood tall, with broad shoulders and a commanding presence. His fiery red hair was slicked back, the light from the flickering candles dancing off his gleaming armor. Every inch of him spoke of years spent on the battlefield, a rough air surrounding him like a protective aura. His steely gaze seemed to hold the weight of countless battles, yet it also held a hint of curiosity as he looked upon us.
Beside him stood Sir Renard Duskguard, an equally imposing figure with a rugged charm that belied his strength. His dark hair was cropped close to his head, emphasizing his sharp features and piercing blue eyes. As he turned his gaze towards us, it was clear that nothing escaped his notice.
We approached the two War Saints, their attention now fully focused on us. Alistair introduced me with a flourish, and I offered a respectful bow in greeting. After all, they were of an higher rank , so it was expected of me to show respect.
"So this is the young man everyone is talking about," Elarion spoke with a smile, bringing his hand to his chin in thought. "You've certainly made quite the impression, young man."
"I suppose I have," I replied with a monotone voice. "After all, killing one of the Twelve High Demons was no small feat."
"That it wasn't," Elarion said, his smile fading. Perhaps he had some unfinished business with the demon I had slain.
"Pray tell to us your glorious feat" he explained as he realised his cup .
"I have no grand tale to tell," I continued. "The fact , was that my opponent kept underestimating me for the whole fight, and I was shrewd enough not to give him reason not to, and when he made a small mistake , I jumped at it like a dog and ripped his head off clean from his shoulder'' I said , a small tingling feeling on my back and stomach as I remembered the fight and the scars it left.
Suddenly, a raspy voice pierced through the air from my right. It was Renard, in the novel he was described as the quiet and stoic of the warsaints. I was taken aback by his sudden speech "I have to thank you," he grunted, barely able to form the words. "That bastard you slew was responsible for the deaths of two of my comrades." He didn't reveal their names, but I knew he was referring to the war saints killed by Alzaroth.'' I owe you one, if you need a favor you can come to me''
He said before turning around and walking away without another word, not one for pleasantries or small talk, apparently. Elarion, with his fiery red hair falling across his face, apologized for Renard's lack of social skills. "But don't underestimate him," he added with a smile. "He may be shy, but he is a reliable one, I can attest for that... "
''Anyway, I too will go," he said with a wave of his hand. "I will leave you to converse with the rest of the guests. I can see some of the girls gazing at you intently - you may want to speak with them. Just a small piece of advice, remember that demons don't easily forget, and they will be out for you, welcome to out world , I am sure you will fit right in !" He paused before turning around and walking off in the same direction as Renard. Honestly, he could have kept the last part to himself.
After all, I was here to relax and the reminder that my very head was now a target was quite the buzzkill. The atmosphere around me seemed to darken slightly as his words sank in, like a shadow creeping over my thoughts. But I pushed it away, determined not to let fear ruin this rare moment of peace and happiness. I took a deep breath and focused on the lively chatter and laughter coming from the other guests, hoping it would drown out any lingering concerns about demons coming after me.