The capital city buzzed with life as Haruto, Kiera, and Lyria returned from the forest. Merchants called out their wares, children darted between stalls, and street performers juggled flaming torches. For the first time since arriving in this world, the trio could breathe and enjoy a moment of normalcy.
Haruto's stomach growled audibly. He glanced around, embarrassed. "I… I didn't mean to—"
Kiera snorted. "Even heroes get hungry, apparently. Don't tell me you've been fighting monsters on an empty stomach all this time."
Lyria rolled her eyes but smiled. "Let him eat. He deserves a small break after that forest ordeal."
At a stall selling sweet buns, Haruto fumbled awkwardly, trying to place his order. The vendor chuckled, handing him a perfectly warm pastry. Kiera teased him mercilessly, "The mighty Hero of the Forest… defeated by a bun?"
He muttered under his breath, It's more complicated than it looks…
They wandered further, interacting with townsfolk. Children shyly asked for Haruto's signature. Kneeling, he scribbled his name on scraps of parchment, cheeks burning. Lyria laughed softly. "You'll have to get used to this fame."
---
Audience with the Guildmaster and King
Later, the party was summoned to the guild headquarters, and then to the grand audience hall of King Alaric Thandoril. The hall's high ceilings and ornate tapestries reflected the kingdom's history of valor.
"Report what you encountered in the forest," the King commanded, his gaze sharp and commanding.
Haruto recounted the illusions, the lesser demons, and the mini-boss. Kiera and Lyria added their observations, emphasizing the danger and intelligence behind the attacks.
The guildmaster leaned forward thoughtfully. "The illusions were crafted with intelligence. Whoever is behind this is studying your reactions. This is far beyond typical lesser demon activity."
The King's expression darkened. "This meeting is confidential. No word of these events must leave this room. The threats you face are not limited to our borders. We may need to forge alliances with neighboring kingdoms to confront what comes."
Haruto's mind raced. This is only the beginning… the danger is far bigger than the forest.
Kiera smirked. "Finally, real stakes. I was getting bored of easy victories."
The King nodded gravely. "Prepare yourselves. The coming days will test not only your strength but also your wisdom and loyalty."
---
Before the banquet, the trio watched and assisted with preparations. Tables were set, lanterns arranged, and musicians tuned their instruments. Haruto felt awkward in his formal attire, stumbling slightly over his tunic hem.
"Careful, Hero," Kiera teased. "Don't trip in front of nobles."
Haruto's face burned. "I-I'm fine! Just… adjusting…"
Lyria smirked. "You'll attract attention if you don't get used to it. Consider this practice."
Haruto noticed noble ladies and minor harem candidates quietly observing him, whispering among themselves. His cheeks flushed, a mixture of pride and embarrassment.
---
The banquet hall gleamed under golden lantern light. Tables overflowed with roasted meats, breads, and spiced wines. Nobles mingled, courtiers danced, and music floated through the air. Haruto, Kiera, and Lyria sat prominently, drawing admiring glances.
Amidst the crowd, Haruto's eyes landed on a striking woman he had not seen before. She exuded an aura of elegance and command, her presence clearly noble-class—yet there was something irresistibly captivating about her.
She's… hot… and beautiful… Haruto muttered under his breath, cheeks flushing.
Their eyes met briefly, and she smiled at him with subtle amusement. "Such courage… and charm," she said lightly.
Lyria noticed Haruto's reaction and felt a small pang of jealousy. Her polite smile stiffened slightly, though she tried to hide it. Kiera, ever perceptive, whispered teasingly, "Looks like Hero's already noticing someone. Careful, Lyria."
Haruto's face grew redder. "I… I just… she's… uhh…" His words stumbled over themselves, completely flustered.
The banquet continued with music, laughter, and joy, yet beneath the festivities, a new layer of intrigue and romantic tension had quietly emerged. The noble-class demon quietly observed him, already memorizing his every move, while the trio remained unaware of her true identity.