[BL] Seducing Male Leads To Survive As A Villain In A Novel-Chapter 340: Imperial Banquet
The celebration was already underway that evening.
The streets were filled with different processions, with people dressed in red dancing with fire on their sticks. Others played instruments loudly, while some in red dragon costumes moved with the crowd. They chanted hymns to the dragon god, blowing fireworks and spraying fire sparks into the air. Some passers-by joined them, while others enjoyed the view from the sidelines, moving alone or in pairs or small groups.
The streets of the capital were a bright and lively place that night. And the Emperor’s Palace was no different.
The Emperor had set a grand banquet for all the nobles and royalty in attendance. He sat upon his dais, his table before him, while each noble and royal had their own table, shared with those they had come with. The tables were made of gold and dispersed throughout the room. Everyone enjoyed their grand meals while laughing and chatting amongst themselves.
There was entertainment laid before them: ladies dancing while musicians played to soothe the atmosphere. There were also athletic performances at one point.
As they enjoyed the feast, the Emperor rose to his feet with a smile on his face. Everyone stopped their discussions and set down their utensils to look up at him, listening to what he had to say.
The Emperor thanked them all for honoring his invitation and making time to attend. He sent his heartfelt appreciation to them, even calling out the names of some specifically.
"...I am specifically grateful to have our Crown Prince Elvis from the Kingdom of Valencrest," the Emperor said with a smile, raising his glass toward Elvis.
All attention shifted to Elvis as he forced a smile, raising a toast to the Emperor in return.
"I heard your father passed away mysteriously recently. I wish to share my sympathy and hope that you aren’t too wounded by the loss," he said to Elvis.
"And also..." the Emperor continued, "...I have also heard that your mother has become the new Queen and sole ruler of Valencrest. That is a rare and incredible feat. I shall congratulate her the next time we meet." He smiled.
The room now filled with murmuring. They all seemed to have something to say as they glanced at one another.
"I heard that as well. Is it true?"
"I heard it, too. I find it rather absurd."
"Right? Where is that even done?"
"I don’t know, but I find it all strange..."
"True..."
Lysander and Elvis heard everything said but kept their composure even though they found it offensive. Elvis casually smiled as he replied, "Thank you for your humble consideration. I will pass your words to her and keep them in mind."
The Emperor nodded. "That is good. I figured, since she is a woman, she might not be strong enough to make the journey here. It is a stressful trip, and I did not wish to put her through that. So I decided to invite you instead. I have heard so many great things about you... and I believe you have great potential to be a fine leader in the future. I wish for us to work together and remain on good terms."
Elvis smiled. "Thank you for considering me. I am honored."
The Emperor’s gaze shifted to Lysander. "You even came with your dear brother. Is he not the son of that... other Queen? The one rumored to have gone insane...? I wonder what became of her."
Elvis could sense that Lysander might lose his cool. He held his brother firmly by the hand to calm him.
"Thank you for looking into our affairs. We appreciate your time and attention," Elvis addressed the Emperor.
The Emperor nodded once more. "I hope you all enjoy your stay here at the Imperial Palace. I have made every effort to ensure your comfort and enjoyment." He smiled, scanning the audience.
With that, his speech concluded. Everyone cheered for him. The Emperor sat back down, and they all resumed the celebration.
****
The banquet lasted for over an hour as they ate and spoke to their satisfaction.
When they were finished, the Emperor rose to his feet to make the next announcement.
He explained how they would be proceeding to the next segment of the celebration.
"In order to celebrate this feast in a grander manner, I have arranged a spiritual event at the City Temple. We shall proceed there, where I have already invited a esteemed spiritual Priest to lead us in a sacred session."
He looked over them as he continued. "Therefore, I would appreciate it if we all began preparing to move to the City Temple to complete today’s grand celebration. Afterward, you may either join the street festivities or retire to the accommodations I have prepared for you."
The nobles and royalty nodded in approval and appreciation, smiling among themselves.
"That sounds like an excellent idea."
"That is new. I like it."
"Indeed. It is more festive and thoughtful. We should all get going."
"Exactly."
Without further hesitation, they began rising from their seats to make quick preparations for the journey to the Temple.
Lysander and Elvis remained seated, watching people leave without a word. Elvis’s eyes drifted to where the Emperor stood, observing the departure.
A guard approached the Emperor, who asked quietly, "How is everything proceeding? Has he arrived? Is all in order?"
"Yes. It has been seen to. The priest has already arrived at the venue, and the guests are being gathered as we speak. Everything is set," the guard explained.
The Emperor allowed a soft smile as he nodded. "Very good. Well done."
"Yes, Your Majesty." The guard gave a slight bow and walked away.
Elvis kept his eyes on the Emperor. He had not heard the conversation, but he could not help feeling suspicious about the man’s actions tonight.
He knew the Emperor was up to something—he simply could not tell what it was. For now, he would have to remain cautious and see what unfolded.
