THE ONE WHO WE COULDN'T SAVE

An hour later, the group stood before the shop's grand mirror, each of them now dressed in their perfectly tailored attire. The old woman, beaming with pride, handed them their final adjustments.

"You all look absolutely stunning," she said, her eyes sparkling. "Truly worthy of the banquet's spotlight."

Dylan adjusted the cuffs of his black suit with silver accents. The sleek design complemented his laid-back charm while giving him a more commanding presence. He gave himself a nod of approval in the mirror. "Not bad at all."

Cauis turned from side to side, admiring his goldr-trimmed navy suit. The fit was immaculate, highlighting his confident, regal air. "Looks like I'm winning the best-dressed contest after all," he teased.

June wore a deep sapphire gown that shimmered under the light, its flowing fabric giving her an ethereal elegance. She twirled slightly, her ginger hair falling around her shoulders. "I feel like a princess," she said, smiling softly.

Alisan stood beside her in the white gown with silver embroidery, the delicate details catching the light. "We clean up nicely," she said with a playful glance at June.

Axel, ever the practical one, wore a simple yet stylish black suit that allowed him to move comfortably. He shifted in place, tugging at the collar. "I still don't get why we have to be this dressed up," he muttered.

Izzy, in a sleek crimson dress with black lace accents, smirked at him. "Because we're about to attend a royal banquet, and I refuse to be seen next to you if you're not looking this good."

The shopkeeper clapped her hands together. "You're all a vision of elegance. The king will be most impressed."

As they headed for the door, Dylan glanced back at the old woman and gave a wink. "Thanks for making us look like we belong in a fairy tale."

The old woman chuckled, waving them off. "Go on, heroes. Make the banquet one to remember."

As they stepped into the evening light, the streets seemed to pause for a moment, heads turning as onlookers caught sight of them. Whispers of admiration followed in their wake.

"Guess we're already making a statement," Cauis said, grinning.

The group set off toward the palace, the air around them crackling with anticipation.

As they arrived at the palace gates, the grand structure loomed before them, its golden spires glinting in the evening light. The guards gave them a respectful nod and opened the massive doors without question. Inside, they were greeted by a line of elegantly dressed maids, who immediately bowed.

"Welcome, honored guests," one of the maids said, her voice soft but composed. "We've been expecting you. This way, please."

The group exchanged curious glances as they were led through the lavish halls. The air was thick with the scent of fresh flowers, and the soft hum of distant music floated toward them.

As they walked, the head maid turned and added with a smile, "You are the main guests of tonight's banquet. The king himself insisted on your presence."

Cauis raised an eyebrow, smirking. "Main guests, huh? Guess they really know how to treat heroes."

Dylan leaned closer to him, grinning. "Try not to let it get to your head, man."

Axel, glancing around at the marble floors and towering chandeliers, crossed his arms. "Feels a bit too fancy for my taste. Wonder if there's food I'll recognize."

Izzy nudged him with a laugh. "Don't worry. If not, I'll sneak you some real food later."

The group was brought to a pair of grand double doors. Two attendants stood ready, and with a flourish, they pulled the doors open to reveal the banquet hall.

The room was breathtaking lit with thousands of candles and filled with nobles and dignitaries dressed in their finest. Crystal chandeliers hung from the high ceiling, casting a golden glow over the sea of tables adorned with delicacies and extravagant decorations.

The entire hall fell silent as their presence was announced. "Presenting the heroes of Drakmire!"

A ripple of awe swept through the crowd as all eyes turned to them. Whispers filled the air, admiration mixed with curiosity.

June leaned closer to Dylan, whispering, "Feels like we're on stage."

Dylan smirked. "Then let's give them a show."

The king himself stood at the far end of the hall, raising a goblet in greeting. "Welcome, heroes! Tonight, we celebrate not only the tournament but your triumphs and the hope you bring to our land!"

Applause erupted, and the group found themselves ushered toward a long, elegant table near the front of the room. Every seat had been prepared for them, adorned with golden plates and silver goblets filled with the finest wines.

Cauis couldn't help but grin as he sat down. "I could get used to this."Dylan, leaning back in his chair, looked around the room.

"Just don't forget why we're really here."

The banquet was just beginning, but the night promised far more than just food and celebration there were still secrets to be revealed.

The grand hall of the palace gleamed with opulence. Chandeliers of enchanted crystal hung from the vaulted ceiling, casting a soft golden glow across the banquet.

Tables were lined with fine silverware, exotic dishes from all over the kingdom, and pitchers brimming with sparkling drinks.

The group followed the maids toward the raised dais at the far end of the hall.

Whispers and curious stares followed their every step."Why do I feel like a zoo exhibit?" Axel muttered under his breath, adjusting his suit jacket."

Because we basically are," Cauis replied with a grin, giving a small wave to the onlookers.

Dylan leaned over to June. "Main guests, huh? No pressure."

June rolled her eyes but couldn't hide the small smirk forming at the corner of her lips.

The king of Drakmire, King Alaric, stood from his ornate chair, his voice booming across the hall.

"Honored guests, tonight we celebrate not only victory in the tournament but the strength and unity these heroes represent.

They were summoned to aid our land, and they have not disappointed."A round of applause filled the hall, the sound almost deafening. The group exchanged glances, unsure how to react.

The king continued, "Feast, enjoy yourselves, and let us show our gratitude for our heroes." He raised his goblet, and the crowd followed suit.

As they finally sat down, plates of food appeared before them almost instantly. Servants hurried to ensure their glasses never emptied.

"Alright," Cauis said, picking up his fork. "I could get used to—"

Axel raised a finger at him. "Don't say it. We're all thinking it. Let's just eat."

The group laughed, finally relaxing a little. But even as they enjoyed the meal, there was an underlying tension this banquet wasn't just a celebration.

Something more was coming.

Dylan leaned back, scanning the crowd with sharp eyes. "I've got a feeling this party's only just getting started."

As the group settled into their meal, the tension in the air only grew thicker. It started with a curious glance from a nearby noble, followed by hushed whispers. Then, one by one, elegantly dressed lords and ladies began to gather around their table, their eyes gleaming with interest.

A tall nobleman with silver hair and a polished demeanor stepped forward first. "You must be the summoned heroes we've heard so much about," he said, bowing slightly.

"Tell me, how does it feel to bear the weight of the realm's hopes on your shoulders?"

June gave a polite nod. "It's… definitely a responsibility. But we're doing what we can to help."

Another noblewoman leaned in, her jeweled necklace glinting under the chandelier light. "Your performance at the tournament was simply breathtaking! Especially that final match it was the talk of the city.

Where did you learn to fight like that?"

Axel chuckled, wiping his mouth with a napkin. "Oh, you know. Lots of training, a few broken bones along the way, and a little bit of luck."

"Luck, he says," Cauis added with a playful scoff. "It's mostly instinct and raw talent. You either have it, or you don't."

Dylan, sensing the growing crowd, leaned casually against his chair. "We all come from different backgrounds, but we've been through enough together that fighting side by side just feels natural at this point."

A young noble with eager eyes stepped closer. "Is it true that you've fought monsters and bandits across the lands?

Are the stories real? Did you really travel through the Verdant Isles and face the beasts there?"

Izzy crossed her arms, a smirk playing on her lips. "Oh, it's real. Trust me, they wouldn't have survived some of those fights without me."

"Dylan raised an eyebrow and leaned back in his chair. "Without me? You weren't even there for half of it!"

The surrounding nobles chuckled, intrigued by their banter.

Izzy shot him a playful glare. "Details. You know you needed me when it counted."

Cauis grinned. "And here I thought we were supposed to be heroes, not entertainers."

June shook her head with a laugh. "We can be both, apparently."

The conversation continued, lighthearted but lively, drawing even more attention from the onlookers.

The crowd quickly gathered around Dylan as he shook a concoction of brightly colored liquids in a glass container, his movements smooth and practiced.

The nobles watched in awe as he poured the mixture into elegant glasses, a vibrant swirl of colors forming within.

"What… what is this?" one of the nobles asked, eyes wide as he took the glass.

Dylan grinned, handing out more drinks. "This, my friends, is called a cocktail. Trust me, it's the future of celebrations.

"The first noble took a cautious sip, his eyes lighting up immediately.

"By the spirits! This is incredible!" Soon, the room buzzed with excitement

Nobles eagerly pushed forward, each wanting to be the next to try one of Dylan's magical creations.

June chuckled from the sidelines. "You've created a monster."

Dylan smirked, mixing another drink with a dramatic flourish. "Without me, you wouldn't even know what you were missing."

Axel raised a glass, impressed. "Gotta admit, you've got a knack for turning heads, man."

Even the king's advisor leaned in curiously, inspecting the glass before giving an approving nod. The once-formal banquet had turned into a lively, almost festival-like atmosphere."Alright," Dylan called out, raising a freshly poured glass. "Let's make tonight unforgettable!"

The crowd erupted into cheers, toasting to their new favorite drink.

The king stood from his throne, raising his hand to calm the boisterous crowd. His voice echoed through the grand hall. "My dear guests, it is time for the traditional dance! But tonight, our very own heroes will lead us!"

The crowd parted as all eyes turned toward the group.

Dylan and Cauis exchanged uneasy glances, their bravado from earlier fading quickly.

"Dance?" Cauis raised a brow. "Uh… small problem. We don't know how to dance."

Dylan crossed his arms, flashing a half-smile. "Yeah, king, great suggestion and all, but I don't think tripping over my own feet in front of royalty is the best look."

June and Alisan stepped forward, each offering a hand. June smirked. "Lucky for you two, we know how to dance."

Alisan gave a playful wink. "And we'll make sure you survive it without embarrassing yourselves."

Dylan raised an eyebrow at June. "You're serious?"

June grinned. "Completely. Trust me, it's easier than fighting in a tournament."

Alisan tugged at Cauis's arm. "Come on, hero-boy. Time to learn something new."

The orchestra began to play a soft, elegant tune as June and Alisan guided Dylan and Cauis to the center of the dance floor.

The nobles watched with curiosity and growing anticipation.June positioned Dylan's hand on her waist while taking his other hand in hers. "Follow my lead," she whispered.

Alisan stood toe-to-toe with Cauis, leaning closer. "Relax. It's just like sparring just a lot slower and with less punching."

The two pairs began to move, first clumsily, then gradually falling into sync. Dylan stumbled once, laughing as June caught his balance.

Cauis muttered under his breath when he stepped on Alisan's foot, but she only smiled and kept him moving.

The music swelled, and before long, Dylan and Cauis found themselves enjoying it. The awkwardness faded into something almost natural, their steps confident now.The crowd cheered, and some nobles joined the dance, their admiration growing.

Cauis glanced at Alisan. "Not bad, huh?"Alisan grinned. "Told you it'd be easy."

Dylan twirled June gracefully, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Maybe I'm a natural."

June laughed softly. "Let's not get ahead of ourselves."

The dance floor glowed under the chandeliers as the heroes led the night into an unexpected but enchanting spectacle.

As the music faded, the final steps of the dance echoed across the grand hall. The nobles erupted into applause, a sea of smiling faces and nods of approval. Yet, scattered laughter followed soon after, as several nobles leaned toward each other, murmuring amusedly.

"Can you believe it?" one noble chuckled. "Two of the most powerful heroes in Elodrath… and they needed their partners to teach them how to dance!"

"Legends on the battlefield, perhaps," another added with a sly grin. "But on the dance floor? Quite the novices!"

Cauis scratched the back of his head, looking mildly embarrassed. "Well, at least no one lost a limb, right?"

he muttered to Alisan, who stifled a giggle.

Dylan crossed his arms, shooting a playful glance at the nobles. "Hey, we can't be perfect at everything. Give us a break!"

June leaned toward him with a teasing smile. "You handled it better than I expected. No broken toes, so that's a win."

Alisan gave Cauis an encouraging nudge. "Besides, next time, you'll have it down. You'll be twirling nobles like a pro in no time."

The nobles laughed again, but this time it was more affectionate, their initial teasing turning into admiration.

A tall noble stepped forward, raising a glass. "To the heroes of Drakmire! May they continue to surprise us in all the best ways!"

The hall rang with cheers as glasses were raised high. Dylan and Cauis exchanged a glance, then shrugged, grinning despite the lighthearted mockery.

"Looks like we're entertainers now," Cauis quipped.

Dylan laughed. "Hey, if saving the world doesn't work out, we've got a backup career as dancers."

The group moved back toward their table, the energy of the room buzzing with new excitement. The banquet wasn't just about power and prestige anymore it had become a celebration filled with genuine warmth and camaraderie.