The grand doors of the royal palace opened, revealing a glittering hall filled with nobles, adventurers, and attendants. Crystal chandeliers cast golden light over polished marble floors, and laughter mingled with the gentle music of string instruments.
Sho stepped inside, straightening his posture. All eyes turned toward him — whispers spread like wildfire: "The boy who slew the Minotaur…" "So young… and so capable."
> Alright… stay calm. Observe, analyze, and remember everything, Sho thought, his sharp mind scanning the crowd.
Nobles approached quickly, eager to introduce their daughters or discuss alliances. Sho smiled politely but ignored most of them, keeping his focus on Princess Arisa, who stood gracefully near the center of the hall, speaking quietly with a few nobles.
He moved closer, careful not to draw unnecessary attention, and bowed deeply.
"Your Highness, I am honored to see you," Sho said formally.
Arisa tilted her head slightly, her silver-blue gown flowing elegantly. "Sho… no need for formalities here," she said with a soft smile.
Sho shook his head politely. "Even so, I insist. Respect is important."
Her crimson eyes flickered with amusement. "Very well… then I shall indulge you."
As they spoke, nobles and adventurers noticed the exchange, some surprised at Sho's composed demeanor. A young boy speaking so confidently to royalty… impressive.
While conversation flowed, Sho mentally observed: the subtle interactions between families, who was trying to impress, who seemed nervous, and who wielded influence quietly but effectively. Every movement, every tone was a piece of the larger puzzle he was analyzing.
> A ball isn't just socializing. It's a battlefield of wits, observation, and influence. I need to read everything carefully.
Princess Arisa leaned slightly closer. "Sho… your actions with the Minotaur didn't go unnoticed. The kingdom owes you a great debt. But tell me — do you enjoy these gatherings?"
Sho smiled faintly. "I… find them intriguing. There's much to observe, and much to learn."
Arisa's smile widened. "Good. That is why I wanted you here — not just to honor you, but to prepare you for the responsibilities your talents will bring."
The evening continued with music, dances, and introductions. Sho moved gracefully through the hall, always alert, always calculating. Occasionally, he glanced at Arisa, noting how naturally her presence drew attention, yet she remained perfectly aware of every detail around her.
> She's strong… powerful… but calm. Much like the resonance I felt before. I need to keep an eye on her.
As the first dance ended, Sho's thoughts returned to strategy. The nobles, the adventurers, the whispers, the subtle glances — every detail mattered. Tonight was more than a celebration. It was the first step into the intricate web of power and influence within the royal court.
Sho's eyes briefly flickered with mana, almost invisible, as he prepared to engage — not in combat, but in the battle of observation, wit, and presence.
> This is only the beginning…