NOVEL NEXT Chapter 22: Chapter 22: Banquet
Thirty minutes had passed since the celebration began.
The hall, overflowing with light and life, resonated with conversations and laughter.
At the center, a sumptuous buffet had been laid out, teeming with exquisite dishes and refined drinks—a testament to the kingdom's prosperity.
In one corner of the room, five young palace maids, elegantly yet modestly dressed, played the piano in unison.
Their fingers danced across the keys with masterful grace, and their harmonious performance captivated the guests.
As the final note rang out, a wave of hearty applause filled the hall.
A nobleman with salt-and-pepper hair rose with dignified composure and addressed the crowd.
"My friends, this banquet is a tribute to the glory of our kingdom!
Let this celebration serve as a clear message to all nations: Ednia stands tall, victorious, and stronger than ever."
Approving murmurs rippled through the crowd, and glasses clinked in enthusiastic toasts. Nobles drew closer to one another, exchanging words about the kingdom's greatness and their hopes for the future.
Meanwhile, Gilbert, ever the center of attention, was surrounded by a group of young noblewomen.
Dressed in opulent gowns, they gazed at him with admiration and flashed him charming smiles.One of them, a blonde-haired woman adorned with pearls, asked softly:
"Lord Gilbert, tell us of your exploits! How did you vanquish the enemies?"
Another, a brunette with a mischievous glint in her eyes, added excitedly:
"Yes, I can hardly imagine the fear you must have inspired in those vile fiends. Please, recount your bravery!"
Gilbert, visibly embarrassed but amused, simply smiled and answered modestly:
"I am but a humble knight who fulfilled his duty the true heroes are our worthy soldiers and the people of Ednia who supported us during the conflict."
His tone and assured demeanor, however, only deepened the admiration of his listeners. Nearby, Lords Maximilian and Robert, observing the scene, exchanged a knowing glance before bursting into laughter in unison.
"Ah, Gilbert," Maximilian chuckled, "always the ladies' favorite! He's like a young prince straight out of an epic tale."
Robert chimed in:
"He has that natural charm we have to work so hard to cultivate."
From my vantage point, I watched this scene unfold with an amused smirk.
Gilbert, with his charisma and flair, reminded me of the popular boys back in the high schools of my former world—the ones who were the stars of the class and vied for by the girls.
He seemed to embody that image perfectly, even in this foreign world.
But soon i felt eyes on my back.
Turning slightly i have noticed a small group of noblewomen, whispering and casting furtive glances my way.
They seemed hesitant, likely curious about me or intrigued by my presence.
I decided to slip away discreetly too many people, too many stares, too much attention.
Being hailed as a hero, forced to smile and converse with nobles who regarded me as a novelty was draining.
I stepped out onto the balcony terrace, seeking a moment of solitude.
The cool night air hit me pleasantly, dissipating some of the warmth from the crowded hall. The terrace bathed in the soft glow of suspended lamps, offered a stunning view of the palace gardens and in the distance the city aglow with festivities.
I raised to my lips the glass of wine I held in my left hand, savoring its richness as my gaze wandered to the beauty of the bright moon.
There, alone under the silver light, I took a deep breath, trying to escape it all.
The sounds of the party behind me grew distant, almost surreal.
For a few moments, it felt as though time had stopped, leaving me alone with my thoughts and the moon as my sole witness.