Published at 10th of July 2023 6:46 am

Chapter 408: "The Empire's Grand Gala [VI]"; The Banquet's Finale

This chapter is updated by NovelFree.ml

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While immersed in the enchanting melodies sung by the group of singers, the noble attendees reveled in the delectable feast laid out before them, accompanied by their partners.

In the midst of this vibrant atmosphere, Aditya couldn’t resist the urge to inquire, “Watson, why do you remain standing? Please, join us at the table.” Julia, echoing his sentiment, added, “Indeed, Watson, we insist that you partake in this meal with us.” The other ladies also nodded in agreement, their eyes filled with a sincere invitation.

“Milady, I express my gratitude for your kind offer to dine together, but I must humbly decline,” Watson responded with a polite bow. “I have already consumed a meal prior to the commencement of this event. Therefore, I implore you to relish your repast without any concern for my well-being.” Julia acknowledged his response with a nod and redirected her attention back to her plate, focusing on the enjoyment of her own meal.

Aditya had hoped to introduce Leo and Clara as his adoptive siblings during this grand banquet. However, this illustrious affair was exclusively designed for couples, requiring even the unattached noblemen and noblewomen to bring a partner. Thus, the introduction of his cherished siblings would have to wait for another occasion, a more suitable setting.

As Aditya delved into the succulent fare, dipping a crispy piece of fried chicken into a savory sauce, Alicia playfully posed a question that momentarily caught him off guard. “Your Majesty, amongst us, who do you deem the most resplendent?” Her words lingered in the air, imbued with both curiosity and a hint of mischief.

Aditya, pausing mid-bite, turned his gaze towards Alicia, a subtle flutter of nerves concealed within him. How was he to navigate such a delicate inquiry? The four women surrounding him possessed an unparalleled beauty, three of them embodying goddess-like grace, while the remaining one radiated elegance on par with her celestial counterparts.

Moreover, even if he were to select one, he would inevitably dishearten the remaining three, for even an Emperor of the Istarin Empire must tread carefully, mindful of the potential consequences that his words might carry.

“I… um…” Aditya’s mind raced to find an answer that would please everyone without causing any offense.

“I genuinely believe that each one of you looks absolutely stunning,” Aditya finally replied, opting for a diplomatic response. It wasn’t a lie, as he truly admired the beauty of Julia, Alicia, Riya, and Lara. Their exquisite dresses only accentuated their allure.

“But you have to choose just one,” Alicia teased, adding to the pressure. Aditya felt a bead of sweat form on his forehead, his nerves intensifying under the gaze of the girls.

“This is quite a predicament,” Aditya thought, feeling the weight of the situation. He carefully considered his words, wanting to avoid any potential disappointment or jealousy.

“It’s genuinely impossible for me to single out just one of you. Each of you possesses a unique beauty that captivates me,” Aditya replied, hoping his response would diffuse the tension. With that, he redirected his attention to his meal, attempting to regain composure. The girls giggled, pleased by his response, and resumed their own enjoyment of the banquet.

“Your Majesty, you should try these,” Riya suggested, gracefully skewering a grilled mushroom with her fork. It wasn’t an ordinary mushroom but rather an Emberburst Mushroom she had personally collected from the forest the day before. Emberburst Mushrooms, with their fiery hues, emanated a gentle warmth. They were commonly consumed in cold regions to raise body temperature.

“What type of mushroom is this?” Aditya inquired, eyeing the grilled delicacy on his plate, curious about its origin.

“This is an Emberburst Mushroom. Taste it, and you’ll understand,” Riya replied, encouraging him. Aditya nodded and took a bite, savoring the mushroom’s flavors as they unfolded in his mouth. The taste delighted him.

“Typically, this mushroom is eaten to warm the body. However, with your Crimson Dragon Bloodline, food with stored heat tastes exceptionally delightful to you,” Riya explained, acknowledging Aditya’s unique heritage.

“These are for you. I hand-picked them specifically,” Riya offered with a smile, presenting Aditya with the remaining five grilled Emberburst Mushrooms. These mushrooms were typically found in warm areas or near volcanoes.

“Thank you,” Aditya expressed his gratitude, his face lighting up as he examined the additional serving of grilled Emberburst Mushrooms on his plate. He was genuinely thrilled by the thoughtful gesture.

In the grand banquet hall, the nobles from the Southern, Eastern, and Western regions mingled, showcasing the rich cultural diversity that existed within the kingdom. As the night unfolded, it became evident that each region had its distinct culinary traditions and dietary preferences.

The nobles hailing from the Southern region were known for their vibrant and spicy cuisine. Their preferred dishes often featured a harmonious blend of flavors, with a strong emphasis on herbs and spices. In their region, it was common to find dishes infused with aromatic ingredients such as chili peppers, lemongrass, and coconut milk. The Southern nobles enjoyed delicacies like spicy curries, tangy sambals, and fragrant rice dishes. They relished the unique combination of spicy, sweet, and sour flavors that defined their culinary heritage.

On the other side of the banquet hall, the Eastern region nobles showcased their love for rice as a staple food. Rice, in various forms, dominated their culinary landscape. Their sophisticated techniques in cultivating and preparing rice led to an array of dishes that showcased its versatility. The nobles from the Eastern region preferred to eat rice with the help of delicate chopsticks, displaying their mastery of this artful dining practice. They indulged in flavorful stir-fried rice dishes, aromatic sushi rolls, and comforting rice porridge. The Eastern nobles celebrated the subtlety and harmony of flavors in their cuisine, valuing the art of balance and presentation.

In contrast, the Western region nobles had a more rustic and communal approach to dining. They embraced the concept of eating with their hands, believing it enhanced the connection between food and people. This region was known for its hearty, robust cuisine that focused on local produce and meats. The nobles of the Western region delighted in feasting on roasted meats, freshly baked bread, and savory pies. Their tables were adorned with platters of succulent grilled meats, accompanied by an assortment of seasonal vegetables and artisanal cheeses. The act of tearing bread and savoring the flavors directly with their hands symbolized a sense of togetherness and appreciation for the simple pleasures of life.

As the nobles engaged in conversation and shared their culinary experiences, it became evident that the diets of each region were distinct, reflecting their unique cultural backgrounds. The banquet hall transformed into a melting pot of flavors, as the Southern, Eastern, and Western region nobles savored the diverse gastronomic offerings. It was a celebration of the kingdom’s cultural tapestry, reminding everyone present of the richness and beauty found in their shared diversity.

As the Royal Banquet stretched on for over an hour, the conversations and laughter filled the grand Banquet Hall. The air was alive with the exchange of ideas, pleasantries, and the clinking of glasses. The nobles from all corners of the kingdom reveled in the opportunity to connect with one another and foster new alliances.

As the night drew to a close, Aditya, accompanied by Julia, Alicia, Riya, and Lara, stood at the center of the hall. The murmurs gradually subsided, signaling the attention of the gathered nobles. Aditya’s voice resonated through the room as he delivered a brief closing speech, expressing his gratitude for their presence and the joyous occasion they had shared.

With his fiances by his side, Aditya led the way towards the exit, their steps accompanied by the soft rustle of regal attire. However, the banquet hall remained abuzz with activity, as the nobles, their appetite for connection whetted, began approaching one another to engage in further conversations.

Viscount Aaron approached Viscountess Catherine with a warm smile. “Catherine, it’s been too long since we last spoke. How has your family been faring?”

Catherine returned the smile, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. “Aaron, it’s a pleasure to see you again. My family has been well, thank you. We’ve recently expanded our vineyards and the grape harvest promises to be bountiful this year. And what about your estates? Any exciting developments?”

Aaron’s face lit up as he shared his latest endeavors. “Ah, Catherine, you won’t believe it! I’ve been investing in a new initiative to revitalize our region’s silk production. The silkworm farms have been thriving, and we’re expecting a remarkable silk harvest. Our artisans are already envisioning exquisite designs for the upcoming season.”

Amelia leaned forward, her eyes gleaming with curiosity. “Marcus, I’ve heard rumors of your innovative irrigation techniques. Tell me more about it. I believe it could greatly benefit my estates as well.”

Marcus nodded, his face reflecting pride in his accomplishments. “Amelia, we’ve implemented a sophisticated network of canals and water distribution systems to maximize crop yield and minimize water wastage. It’s been a transformative endeavor, and the harvests have been nothing short of remarkable. I’d be more than happy to share the details with you.”

As the afternoon wore on, the noble circle became a symphony of conversations, ideas, and aspirations. The hall buzzed with the energy of connections being formed, friendships being forged, and alliances taking shape. It was a testament to the enduring spirit of camaraderie and collaboration that defined the noble society.

Meanwhile, unnoticed by most, Duke Marvin and Duke Zayne quietly slipped away, their departure swift and inconspicuous. Their reasons for leaving early remained unknown, leaving the rest of the nobles to continue their mingling and establish new bonds, united by the shared vision of a prosperous kingdom.

The grand Banquet Hall, once resounding with the melodies of celebration, now echoed with the fervor of new friendships and alliances being forged. The nobles relished this opportunity to transcend social boundaries and strengthen the fabric of their society, knowing that together they could shape a future as grand as the banquet they had just concluded.

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Letting out a sigh of relief, Aditya found solace in the familiarity of his Dragon Palace after the grand banquet. Eager to shed the confines of his royal attire, he began unfastening the buttons, grateful to be free from the discomfort. Formal clothing had never been his preference, as he favored loose and lightweight garments that allowed for unrestricted movement.

Amidst the privacy of their sanctuary, the girls embraced their true selves, shedding the formalities they had maintained in the presence of the nobles. Alicia, in particular, appeared at ease, having honed her ability to navigate diverse social encounters as a seasoned businesswoman. Unlike Aditya, who felt mentally drained from the evening’s affairs, Alicia seemed unaffected, her composure intact.

Peeling away the delicate veil that concealed her angelic countenance, the goddess cast her gaze upon Aditya’s bare upper body, her eyes momentarily captivated by his form.

Turning to face her, Aditya responded with a playful smirk, reveling in the attention. “Feel free to admire this physique to your heart’s content.”

With a haughty snort, the goddess averted her gaze. “Who would want to gaze upon your unsightly figure?” Yet, her words belied her actions, for it was she who had been surreptitiously studying his physique, stealing glances that lingered longer than necessary.

The air between them crackled with a mixture of teasing banter and unspoken tension, a testament to the complex dynamics that existed within their group. They navigated the realm of playfulness and attraction with an unspoken understanding, each harboring feelings that danced beneath the surface.

In the Dragon Palace’s intimate surroundings, the burden of formality dissolved, allowing for genuine interactions and unabashed moments of vulnerability. It was within these walls that their true selves were revealed, free from the constraints imposed by society’s expectations.

With the royal banquet behind them, Aditya and his fiances could finally find respite in the comfort of their own skin, embracing their quirks, desires, and the unspoken connections that intertwined their destinies.

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