Chapter 5: Mystery at the Grand Celebration

The grand celebration was held in the opulent castle of Seren. Alicia, adorned in an exquisite gown, made her entrance amidst the curious and admiring gazes of the nobles gathered. The hall was bathed in a warm, golden glow from the chandeliers adorned with sparkling gems. The air was filled with the enchanting melody of music and the intoxicating scents of fine wine and exotic spices. Exquisite tapestries depicting legendary battles and serene landscapes adorned the walls, showcasing Seren’s wealth and sophistication.

As Alicia’s gaze swept across the room, it finally rested on a familiar figure. The man stood in a corner, dressed in a finely tailored uniform, with a faint smile playing on his lips. His expression was calm and composed, as if the shadows of the past had never touched him. This man looked exactly like her childhood friend. Could it truly be him? How could there be such an extraordinary coincidence of having the same name and appearance?

Alicia felt a surge of hesitation and inner turmoil. She wanted to test the person standing before her. If he was indeed her childhood friend, he should recognize her immediately. So, she stood still, waiting for him to make the first move. However, to her surprise, the man only glanced in her direction without showing any signs of recognition.

Doubt began to creep into Alicia’s mind. Perhaps this person merely bore a resemblance to her childhood friend but was actually a stranger. As she pondered this, she was suddenly interrupted by a familiar voice. She looked up, her heart skipping a beat. "It’s him! That familiar presence... he really is standing before me!" she thought, her emotions surging.

"My lady, it’s a pleasure to meet you. How can I help you?" the man said, giving a courteous bow.

Alicia’s heart raced, but she forced herself to remain calm, masking her excitement. 'Thank you. I do not require any assistance at the moment. I will acquaint myself with the guests here,' she replied, striving to keep her voice steady.

Leon’s smile remained unchanged, but there was a flicker of complex emotion in his eyes. "I understand, my lady. Nonetheless, if you need my assistance, I am at your service."

Alicia nodded, still filled with doubt and complex emotions. Was this Leon truly her childhood friend? His behavior seemed so natural, as if he did not recognize her at all. Yet, who could remain so composed in such a situation?

At that moment, the Seren Lord himself approached. Tall and imposing, he exuded an aura of authority. "Lady Alicia, it is an honor to meet you," he said in a deep, steady voice.

"The honor is mine, Lord Seren," Alicia replied, inclining her head slightly. "Your hospitality is greatly appreciated."

The Seren Lord’s appearance interrupted their conversation, and Alicia’s doubts were momentarily set aside. She forced herself to smile and engage in polite conversation. The hall was filled with music, laughter, and conversation, making it seem like a carefree feast, but Alicia’s heart remained uneasy.

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As the evening progressed, Alicia kept a close eye on Leon. Watching him mingle effortlessly with other important figures, displaying impeccable manners and noble demeanor, she couldn’t help but be distracted. This man seemed so different from the timid, gentle, and impoverished childhood friend she remembered. His every move and gesture were under her scrutiny. She thought she might have been overthinking, but there was still a lingering sense of unease.

Alicia recalled the contents of the letter, thinking that the Seren Lord or Leon must have more important matters to discuss with her, including why Leon had offered to assist her on Aisha’s territory. She drank sparingly, maintaining a clear mind. As the evening wore on, she had little interest in the performances, focusing instead on identifying the guests and gleaning any useful information.

Among the guests, Alicia noticed several prominent local families. The Clare family, known for their rich mineral resources and industrial strength, controlled most of the mining assets in the Seren territory. Another was the Avery family, renowned for their extensive trade network and strong economic power, managing much of the trade routes between Seren and neighboring kingdoms.

Also present at the banquet was the esteemed Welton family. Not only did they hold significant political influence, but they were also renowned for their achievements in magical research and education. Among the younger generation of the Welton family, Isolde Welton stood out. She possessed exceptional magical talent and demonstrated remarkable abilities in both politics and economics.

Alicia’s gaze occasionally fell on Isolde, noting how the young noblewoman conversed with those around her, exuding charm and intelligence. Alicia couldn’t help but feel a growing interest, thinking that Isolde Welton might become an important ally or rival in the future.

The banquet continued with cheerful music and lively conversations, but Alicia could not fully relax. She knew she had to remain vigilant, whether facing Leon or other potential threats.

As the night wore on and the celebration reached its peak, Alicia found herself standing on a balcony overlooking the serene gardens of the castle. The moonlight cast a silver glow on the neatly trimmed hedges and sparkling fountains. It was a tranquil contrast to the storm of emotions raging within her.

Just then, Leon approached, his footsteps barely audible on the stone floor. "My lady," he said softly, "I couldn’t help but notice you seemed deep in thought."

Alicia turned to face him, her eyes reflecting the moonlight. "It’s nothing, Advisor Arcana Arcana. Just... reminiscing about the past."

Leon stepped closer, his gaze gentle yet probing. "If there’s anything troubling you, please know that I’m here to help."

Alicia hesitated for a moment before speaking. "It’s just... seeing you tonight, I couldn’t shake the feeling that we’ve met before. Do you ever feel like some faces are just... familiar?"

Leon’s eyes darkened slightly, but he maintained his composure. "Perhaps it’s just the nature of such gatherings, my lady. Faces and names blur together after a while."

Alicia nodded, though her heart was far from settled. "Perhaps you’re right."

Leon bowed slightly, his expression inscrutable. "Anytime, my lady. If you need anything, do not hesitate to call upon me."

Before Alicia could reply, the Seren Lord appeared, his presence commanding attention. "I apologize for interrupting your private conversation," he said, his voice carrying a note of authority. "Lady Alicia, might I request a private discussion with you? It concerns important matters that require your attention."

Alicia turned to face the Seren Lord, curiosity piqued. "Of course, Lord Seren. I am at your disposal."

The Seren Lord nodded, then gestured towards Leon. "It is fortunate that Advisor Arcana is also present. Perhaps the three of us could discuss this matter together. It pertains to some critical issues regarding our territories."

Alicia glanced at Leon, who gave her a reassuring nod. "Very well," she agreed. "Lead the way, Lord Seren."

With that, the three of them moved towards a more secluded part of the castle, leaving the lively banquet behind. Alicia’s heart pounded with anticipation and unease, knowing that whatever awaited them would shape the future of their lands.