Chapter 63: Banquet

Ryo entered the grand banquet hall, his steps firm yet composed. The hall was illuminated by brilliant chandeliers, casting a golden hue over the dignitaries and nobles gathered. Long tables lined with exquisite dishes and fine wine filled the room, and the air buzzed with chatter and laughter. Leaders from various nations were engaged in discussions, their voices blending with the soft melody played by the orchestra in the corner.

Ryo made his way toward the section reserved for the prominent figures of the evening. The Vampire Lord, Dragon Emperor, Elf Queen, Dwarf Chieftain, and Demon Lord all nodded at his arrival. He took his seat beside the Dragon Emperor, who gave him an approving look. "You seem to be adjusting well, Ryo," he remarked, sipping his wine.

"More like getting dragged into things beyond my control," Ryo muttered, making the Vampire Lord chuckle.

"That is the fate of those who hold power," the Vampire Lord stated. "But you're handling it better than most."

The Demon Lord smirked, his crimson eyes gleaming. "Power attracts responsibilities. And enemies. I hope you're ready for both, Ryo."

As the discussions moved toward alliances and trade agreements, Ryo's mind wandered. He was here for politics, yet he felt more at ease in combat than in these negotiations. Despite this, he listened intently, knowing that he would have to navigate these affairs in the future.

After a while, he excused himself and made his way to where his fiancées were gathered. Selena, Seyra, Ai, and Lilith were engaged in conversation, but they turned their attention to him when he approached.

"Enjoying yourself?" Selena teased, raising an eyebrow.

"If you call discussing trade and alliances enjoyment, then sure," Ryo replied dryly.

Lilith smirked. "Well, at least you're getting used to your role."

Before Ryo could reply, a soft yet firm voice interrupted. "Lord Ryo."

Turning around, Ryo saw a petite girl with brown hair and brown eyes standing before him. It was Hilda Ironheart, the dwarf princess he had saved during the previous battle. She bowed slightly before meeting his gaze.

"I wanted to thank you for saving me back there. If not for you, I might not have made it out alive," Hilda said earnestly.

Ryo waved his hand dismissively. "It wasn't a big deal. I was just doing what needed to be done."

"Even so, I owe you a debt of gratitude," she insisted.

Just then, the system's voice echoed in Ryo's mind.

[Conditions to unlock Dwarven Abilities: Establish direct contact with the Dwarf Princess.]

Ryo's eyes twitched slightly. "Another condition? First Leyra, and now Hilda," he thought to himself. It seemed that fate was pulling him into yet another unforeseen development.

Before he could dwell on it further, a group of girls from other classes approached. They seemed hesitant, exchanging glances with each other before stepping forward.

"Umm... Lord Ryo," one of the girls began, her face slightly flushed. "We've been wanting to speak with you for a while, but—"

Selena, Seyra, Ai, and Lilith all turned their gazes toward the girls, their expressions unreadable but carrying a silent warning. The girls immediately shrank back, realizing that getting close to Ryo was no easy feat.

"I-It's fine! We just wanted to say congratulations on your achievements!" another girl stammered before they quickly retreated.

Ryo sighed. "Do you four really have to scare everyone away?"

Seyra smiled. "We're just making sure no unnecessary trouble comes your way."

Lilith crossed her arms. "You have enough on your plate already."

Before Ryo could argue, one of the attendants approached and whispered something to him. He turned toward his fiancées. "Seems like I'm needed for another discussion."

Making his way back to the leaders' table, he found himself in the midst of yet another heavy conversation. This time, the Elf Queen, Dwarf Chieftain, and Demon Lord were leading the discussion.

"Ryo," the Elf Queen addressed him, her gaze calm yet piercing. "We've been observing you for some time now. Your feats, your power, and your connections."

The Dwarf Chieftain nodded in agreement. "Aye, lad. And after much consideration, we have reached a decision."

The Demon Lord leaned forward, a smirk playing on his lips. "And it involves you, yet again."

Ryo frowned slightly. "What decision?"

The Elf Queen took a sip of her wine before placing the goblet down. "The marriage of our daughters to you."

Silence filled the table as Ryo blinked. "Wait... What?"

"It is not something we will force upon you immediately," the Dwarf Chieftain clarified. "However, tomorrow when your academy classes are complete, we shall discuss this in detail."

The Demon Lord chuckled. "A growing empire needs strong alliances. Think of it as an investment, Ryo."

Ryo rubbed his temples. "Another arranged marriage? At this rate, I might end up with a kingdom of wives."

The Dragon Emperor chuckled. "That doesn't sound so bad, does it?"

The Vampire Lord smirked. "You seem to be quite the popular one, Ryo."

Ryo sighed. It seemed that no matter what he did, his fate was always intertwined with unforeseen developments. The banquet continued, but his thoughts were already preoccupied with what was to come.

One thing was certain—his future was going to be anything but peaceful.