Tonight marks my 13th banquet, and I need to present myself well. I'm expecting to meet one or two supporting characters.
*Sniff, sniff.*
Before the banquet begins, I should take a bath.
After finishing my bath, there was a gentle knock at the door.
"Young master, may I come in?" Lilith's voice called from outside.
"You may come in," I replied, hastily wrapping a towel around my body.
Lilith entered, holding a set of men's attire. "Lady Corrine wants you to wear this. She said it's your birthday, after all."
Approaching me, Lilith offered to help me dress, emphasizing the importance of making connections with the guests attending the party. Despite her insistence, I declined, determined to dress myself.
After what felt like an eternity, I finally managed to don the attire. It dawned on me why nobles often sought assistance; the intricate garments proved challenging to navigate, especially with my slender arms. Perhaps I should accept Lilith's help next time.
Lost in thought, I pondered the guest list for my birthday celebration. My recent rise to fame due to my dessert recipes ensured a sizable turnout, but uncertainty lingered. Would I encounter new challenges or perhaps even danger?
My mind drifted to the elusive piece hidden within the city of Argenti, governed by Lady Corrine Silverfall. Obtaining her permission to enter the city remained paramount, especially on my birthday. Examining my reflection, I couldn't help but marvel at my transformed appearance. The tailored suit accentuated my emerald eyes and blonde locks, rendering me almost unrecognizable from my past self.
Lost in my reverie, I was interrupted by another knock at the door.
"Young master, Lady Corrine wishes to know if you've finished dressing," Lilith announced.
"I just finished," I replied, opening the door to reveal my attire.
Without a word, Lilith led the way to the venue, her silent presence a comforting reassurance amidst the bustling anticipation.
As we arrived, Lilith reminded me to wait for Lady Corrine's signal before entering. With a nod, I prepared to make my grand entrance, eager to embrace the festivities and the challenges that awaited beyond the threshold.
After Lilith's reminder, I took a deep breath, steeling myself for the upcoming festivities. As the door swung open, revealing the lavish venue adorned with shimmering decorations, a wave of excitement washed over me. The murmurs of the guests and the soft melody of the background music created an atmosphere tinged with anticipation.
Lady Corrine, radiant in her elegance, caught my eye from across the room. With a graceful gesture, she beckoned me forward, her smile a reassuring beacon amidst the sea of unfamiliar faces. As I approached, I couldn't help but notice the curious glances and whispered conversations following my every step.
With each stride, I felt a surge of confidence, fueled by the realization that this night held the promise of both celebration and opportunity. As Lady Corrine extended her hand in welcome, I took it with a sense of determination, ready to embrace the festivities and the challenges that awaited.
"Thank you, Lady Corrine. I appreciate the banquet, but you don't have to do this. Everything here looks expensive," I said.
"You don't have to worry about that. After all, you're a Silverfall. It's only natural to have this, so don't worry," she replied with a smile.
"Thank you, but where is Katherine? I didn't see her when finishing our sword training."
"Oh, she's over there. If you want to go to her, you can go now. Enjoy your birthday," Corrine gestured with a smile.
I bowed and walked towards where Katherine is. As I made my way through the crowd, I couldn't help but marvel at the diverse array of guests in attendance. Nobles adorned in their finest attire mingled with artisans, merchants, and scholars, each conversation a tapestry of intrigue and ambition. The air was alive with laughter and the clinking of glasses, punctuated by the occasional burst of music from the band. Everywhere I looked, faces lit up with smiles and animated gestures, a testament to the joy of the occasion.
After my eyes widened, I recognized the girl walking to Katherine. She's one of the main heroines in a guy version of the game. I still didn't know if the main character is a girl or boy, but meeting the character that I only met in the game made me nervous. While I'm lost in my thoughts, Katherine noticed me and started to walk towards me.
"Cale, let me introduce you to Sofia of Viscount Carnelia," she gestured.
Sofia Carnelia. She's one of the male character's heroines. She has a kind but aggressive personality. She's one of my favorite characters. Her red silk hair and red eyes make her beautiful, but she's going to be even more beautiful in 7 years, at the start of the game. But right now, she's completely different from her in-game self. She's more timid. While I'm in deep thoughts, Katherine looks at me, gesturing for me to greet Sofia. I nodded and walked forward to Sofia.
"It's a pleasure meeting you, Sofia Carnelia," I bow and take her hand, kissing the back of it.
"No, Cale Silverfall, the pleasure is mine. I can say the rumor is not over-exaggerated. You are really a good-looking man."
"I'm flattered. You're beautiful as well, Lady Sofia."
"Cale, what about me? You didn't even compliment my dress," Katherine said with a pout.
"Sis, you're beautiful no matter what you wear." Of course, it's not a lie. She really is beautiful.
"Don't 'sis' me. Did I already tell you to call me Katherine?"
"But—"
"No 'but'."
"Okay, sorry. So, how long have you two known each other?" I asked.
"Since we were 6, when father was still alive. We always visited Scafati city under Carnelia because father and her father are friends. We became friends too, but after father's death, I never visited Scafati again," Katherine said with a hint of regret and sadness.
"Sorry if I make you remember a sad past."
"Not at all. It's a happy memory now. It makes me want to visit Scafati again," Katherine said excitedly.
"The two of you are always welcome. I'll accompany the two of you myself if that happens," Sofia said.
"We'd love to," I reply. After that, the three of us start chatting and eating.
"I would have to excuse myself. I have something to do." After the two of them approved, I start walking away because I ate too much. I need—before I finish my thoughts, I bump into someone.
"Oh, I'm sorry. Are you hurt?" The woman with black hair and black eyes, beautiful and mature, said.