On this day, the scorching sun hung high in the sky. Shawoon stood in the expansive forecourt outside Changlong Nation's Hall of Guests, beads of sweat on her face glinting faintly.
"It's been really busy lately..."
According to Shawoon, this nation known as Changlong was preparing for its once-in-a-decade "Grand Banquet of All Nations." As representatives of Tian Cai Empire, we had also been invited to attend.
"The reason the two of us are able to join this banquet is because of our exceptional contributions in the previous battles. It's a form of recognition from the empire's high council. Oh, and by the way, our emperor, Gabriel Silva, will also attend in person."
Hearing the emperor's name, I felt a pang of doubt. Gabriel Silva? The same emperor I remembered being assassinated during the previous war? The memories of that fateful battle in the imperial chamber resurfaced in my mind.
Shawoon seemed to notice my confusion and smiled as she replied:
"Don't worry. The emperor's fake death was just a ploy to mislead our enemies. It's not the first time something like this has happened."
I nodded slightly. Though the unease lingered in my heart, I chose to trust her words.
While lost in thought, the name of another companion, Avik, crossed my mind. I asked:
"And what about Avik? Where is he now?"
Shawoon's brows furrowed slightly, a hint of hesitation on her face.
"Avik won't be returning for now. Yuanting has taken him in and doesn't seem inclined to let him go."
Her words sent a wave of unease through me. What had that kid done to end up in such a situation?
Shawoon, noticing my worry, gently patted my shoulder.
"Don't overthink it. Yuanting doesn't intend to harm him. It seems Avik was originally one of their people, and they simply took this opportunity to bring him back."
So that's how it is? If Avik wasn't in danger, then there wasn't much to be concerned about.
On the eve of the banquet, Changlong's capital had been transformed into a resplendent palace-like city. The streets were adorned with vibrant banners, each representing the emblems of various factions. We were accommodated in a grand guesthouse, where nobles and emissaries could be seen at every corner, adding to the city's lively atmosphere.
That evening, I stood on the guesthouse balcony, overlooking the dazzling nightscape of Changlong Nation. Bright lights illuminated every corner of the city, resembling a sea of stars.
Shawoon approached and stood beside me, her gaze also fixed on the distant night view.
As the night deepened, a sense of calm washed over me. I silently hoped that everything would proceed smoothly in the days to come.