Banquet[341]

The benefits of soul wine were undeniable—an elixir capable of rejuvenating both body and spirit. However, its creation was steeped in dark magic, requiring souls as ingredients, a practice many would deem abhorrent.

But as long as Wayne remained silent about its origins, Paletress would never know. Besides, most of the beings he had slain were monsters and abominations. Even if someone were to uncover the truth, it would be difficult to frame his actions as inherently evil.

With the aid of the sacred wine, Paletress continued her ritual for an entire night. The Holy Light shrouded Wayne's body, successfully containing the hellish magic within him, condensing it into a crystalline form. Around this dark crystal, she constructed a formidable ward of divine energy, reinforcing the seal.

The Church of the Holy Light had battled dark forces for centuries, and though it was the first time Paletress had encountered hellish magic of this magnitude, she was no stranger to fighting against corrupted forces. The teachings of the Holy Light contained ancient knowledge on purging such taints, and she was well-equipped to handle the challenge.

As a rising star within the Church, Paletress' talent was beyond question. Thanks to her efforts, Wayne could now freely access over eighty percent of his chaotic magic without interference from the infernal corruption. With further treatments, he would soon face a crucial decision—either permanently expel the hellish power from his body or take the dangerous path of attempting to assimilate it with the help of Lani.

By the time dawn arrived, after a night of intense spellcasting, Paletress did not appear the least bit exhausted. In fact, she looked even more radiant than before, her complexion flushed with energy.

However, their prolonged seclusion in the prayer room had sparked some unintended rumors. As Wayne and Paletress walked through the cathedral's halls, numerous clergymen cast them curious, and in some cases, disapproving glances. It was clear that Paletress was well-regarded among her peers, and Wayne could sense the envy radiating from some of the younger priests.

But he paid their hostility no mind. If anything, he found it amusing. After seeing Paletress' talent and beauty firsthand, he had no intention of stepping aside for anyone else—neither rationally nor emotionally.

As they left the cathedral, Paletress looked at Wayne, her expression one of newfound intrigue.

"I thought you were a warrior, Wayne," she admitted, "but now I see you possess powerful magic as well. That truly surprised me."

"But for someone of your strength and deeds, I would have expected to hear stories about you before. It's a shame I haven't—your name should be well known."

After working tirelessly all night, it was only natural for Wayne to invite her for a meal as a gesture of gratitude. Paletress didn't refuse; in fact, she seemed eager to learn more about him. As they walked together, her eyes sparkled with curiosity, her questions flowing easily.

Wayne, ever the charmer, enjoyed her company and was more than happy to indulge her curiosity. After a moment's thought, he chose not to lie outright but instead wove a tale that was equal parts truth and misdirection.

"This isn't a failing on your part, Paletress," he said with an amused smile.

"But since you've asked, as a friend, I see no reason to hide the truth. You see, I come from a distant land, beyond the known reaches of Azeroth."

"I am neither a warrior nor a mage in the traditional sense. My path is something different—a fusion of both disciplines. I am a Witcher, one who dedicates his life to hunting down and destroying creatures of darkness."

Paletress' lips parted in surprise. But rather than deterring her, his revelation only heightened her interest.

Young and brimming with curiosity, Paletress was like an eager student, her questions coming one after another. Wayne answered her with patience, amused by her enthusiasm.

After a delightful breakfast, he was preparing to leave and handle his matters regarding the pet badge. But just as he was about to take his leave, Paletress hesitated, her cheeks tinged with a light blush.

Then, gathering her courage, she made a rather unexpected request.

"Wayne, do you have plans two nights from now?" she asked, her voice slightly lower than usual.

Wayne raised an eyebrow. "That depends," he said. "What's the occasion?"

She took a deep breath and finally met his gaze.

"There is an aristocratic banquet being hosted by Countess Katrana Prestor," she explained.

"I normally avoid these gatherings, but this time, the bishop has assigned me an important role—I'm responsible for securing funding for the Church's education programs during the noble assembly."

"But... I don't know much about noble etiquette," she admitted, fidgeting slightly. "So I was hoping you could accompany me as my escort."

Wayne's eyes flashed with interest. Katrana Prestor? The Countess?

Or rather—Onyxia, the Black Dragon Princess.

This was an unexpected stroke of fortune.

For days, he had been contemplating how to approach her, how to maneuver himself into her circle without arousing suspicion. And now, fate had laid out the perfect opportunity before him.

A noble banquet was an ideal setting. If he played his cards right, he could potentially expose Onyxia's true nature. Even if he failed to slay her that night, publicly unmasking her would shatter her influence over Stormwind.

Best of all, she would be at her most vulnerable—surrounded not by her dragonkin, but by nobles and military officials. If a confrontation broke out, many of Stormwind's strongest fighters would be present, forced to take his side.

As for the nobles themselves? Wayne couldn't bring himself to care about their fates. The corrupt aristocrats of Stormwind had done little to earn his sympathy. If they fell in the chaos, it would simply be one less obstacle in his way.

Wayne's smile widened as he met Paletress' hopeful gaze.

"How could I refuse an invitation from a beautiful lady like you?" he said smoothly.

"You have helped me greatly, Paletress. If you need a companion for the night, I would be honored to be at your side."

The priestess' smile brightened, her earlier nervousness melting away.

"Thank you, Wayne," she said sincerely.

This innocent girl, unaccustomed to the charms of men, was clearly delighted by his words. She had devoted so much of her life to the Holy Light that she had little experience with flattery or courtship.

It took very little to make her happy.

However, after offering his compliment, Wayne's expression shifted slightly, his warm smile giving way to something more purposeful. With the elegance of a seasoned gentleman, he reached for Paletress' hand and placed his other hand gently on her slender waist.

The priestess gasped, her bright blue eyes widening in surprise, but before she could react, Wayne smoothly led her into a few graceful dance steps. His movements were fluid and controlled, guiding her with effortless precision.

Paletress stumbled at first, caught off guard, but Wayne's steady grip kept her from faltering. After a few more steps, she instinctively followed his lead, though her face remained flushed.

Then, as he twirled her lightly before pulling her back into position, Wayne spoke, his voice tinged with amusement but also firm with purpose.

"Since you've invited me as your escort, it's only fitting that I prepare you properly," he said, his golden eyes gleaming with mischief.

"Attending a noble banquet is more than just standing around and exchanging pleasantries. A lady of your stature deserves to be the brightest gem on the dance floor."