CHAPTER TWENTY THREE

As twilight casts its gentle embrace upon the kingdom of Aegalia, the sacred grove awakens with a symphony of anticipation. Lanterns fashioned from delicate glass orbs flicker to life, their warm glow illuminating the winding paths that lead to the heart of the woodland sanctuary.

Nobles, dignitaries, and guests from the four corners of the realm converge upon the Moonlit Clearing, where a grand pavilion stands as a beacon of hospitality and unity. Beneath its billowing silken banners adorned with symbols of peace and prosperity, tables groan under the weight of sumptuous delicacies from across the kingdom and beyond.

The air is alive with the hum of conversation and laughter as guests take their seats, their eyes alight with excitement and wonder at the spectacle unfolding before them. Exotic aromas waft through the grove, mingling with the sweet fragrance of wildflowers and the earthy scent of the forest floor.

Musicians and performers take to the stage, their melodies weaving a tapestry of enchantment that fills the grove with magic and merriment. Dancers twirl amidst the flickering torchlight, their movements a celebration of life and joy that knows no bounds.

I looked around me in awe, i just can't believe that i've never attended the feast of enchntment before. It seems as if the entire kingdom is here, the grove is wide and large to accomodate everyone including the visitors and yet it looks so small.

I can see both my father and mothers respective family enjoying themselves laughing and talking and smiling. Growing up i was the outcast and the oddball and my parents made sure i kept to myself. During feasts or celebration my mother made sure i will be in my room while the rest of the kingdom celebrates.

I can only thank the spirits that i took the bold step of working in the palace and serving Cleon. Speaking of Cleon, where could he possibly be. Everyone is gathered here already.

Why are you standing here, came a voice beside me.

By the spirits, i jumped startled.

Cleon, you have to stop doing that.

Doing what?

Appearing and disappearing, you are not a ghost.

Look who is talking, what where you thinking that made you so lost in thought that amidst the noise and chatter all around, you can be startled.

I wasn't lost in thought.

Hmmmmmm, whatever you say, come let's go take our seat.

I followed Cleon to where the royal family was seated and we both sat behind them.

Everyone look really good, even the clothes i am wearing, i see though simple is on par with what the other princesses are putting on. It is only Cleon that is as usual in his all black attire not that he looks bad or anything, if you ask me no young man here comes close to him in terms of look or elegance he is simply in a league of his own.

I could feel the stares of the other companions standing beside their chosen masters.

I didn''t even bother to look at them, i know they are jealous that Cleon treats me like royalty.

As the moon casts its ethereal glow upon the gathered assembly in the sacred grove, King Aelfdene rises from his seat, his regal presence commanding the attention of all who have gathered beneath the ancient trees.

Noble guests, esteemed allies, and beloved citizens of Aegalia, his voice resonates with authority and warmth, carrying across the clearing with a sense of majesty. On this enchanted evening, we stand together to celebrate the bonds of friendship and unity that unite our kingdoms.

A hush falls over the assembly as King Aelfdene continues, his words imbued with sincerity and gratitude. To our esteemed guests from the four kingdoms beyond our borders, I extend the most heartfelt welcome. Your presence here honors us, and it is with utmost joy that we open our hearts and our homes to you.

The king's gaze sweeps over the gathered nobles and dignitaries, his eyes alight with pride and anticipation. As we revel in the festivities of this enchanted feast, let us not forget the promise of tomorrow—the commencement of the magical tournaments. A spectacle of skill and wonder, these tournaments shall showcase the prowess of our realm's most gifted enchanters and sorcerers.

A murmur of excitement ripples through the crowd at King Aelfdene's words, anticipation for the spectacle that awaits in the days ahead. But for now, let us feast and make merry beneath the starlit sky, let us forge new friendships and strengthen old bonds, for it is in unity that we find our greatest strength.

With a gracious nod, King Aelfdene takes his seat once more, his words lingering in the air like a melody, a promise of joy, wonder, and enchantment in the days that lie ahead.

As the feast begins in earnest, a chorus of clinking goblets and hearty laughter fills the air, echoing through the trees and mingling with the soft murmur of the night breeze. Plates are piled high with delicacies fit for kings and queens, each bite a symphony of flavors that delights the senses and nourishes the soul.

Take it easy will you, i heard Cleon say beside me.

The food is not running away Evelinde.

I know but they are so delicious, i just can't get enough.

Well you better be careful, if you get so full and can't walk, don't think i will carry you.

That's fine, we can always teleport i leaned closer and said in a whisper to him.

Hahahaha very funny Evelinde, came Cleon's sarcastic reply.

Why are you not eating?

I don't feel like it.

Cleon, take a good look around. Everyone is eating and making merry, i don't see any reason why you should deny yourself something that is as basic as this.

Look at us Cleon no one cares, we are currently sitting at the back of your family it is a miracle that a table was set for us and food was served. And i know it's not poisoned, for you wouldn't have allowed me eat it if it were so.

Now please we can not be hated by the kingdom and still starve ourself.

Here, eat with me.

Cleon looked at me for sometime, then picked up his spoon and started eating.

I told you it's delicious i said as i watch him savour the food.

We both ate in silence as we watched the gathered assembly.