Back in Vermillion City, the nobles reveled in the banquet, the grandeur of the event evident in every corner of the vast hall. The hall echoed with chatter and laughter, as the nobles seized the chance to network and pursue personal gains. The air was thick with the scent of delicacies and the sound of clinking glasses, mingling with the lively strains of music from the orchestra.

  In the midst of the vibrant banquet hall, the Emperor's envoy made a commanding announcement, his voice resonating with authority and cutting through the din. The lively chatter came to a sudden pause, and an air of expectation enveloped the gathering, emphasizing the significance of the distinguished arrival.

  "Behold, the illustrious Emperor graces us with his presence tonight. Prepare for the arrival of majesty!" the envoy proclaimed, his tone reverent and powerful.

  The grand doors of the banquet hall swung open with a creak, revealing Emperor Henry in a gracious golden-red robe, his presence exuding a regal aura. Everyone in the hall bowed deeply to the Emperor until he reached the grand table and sat on the highest seat, his voice carrying across the room as he commanded, "Resume!"

  The guests quickly returned to their affairs, the hum of conversation and clinking glasses resuming as the banquet continued. At the grand table, with the joining of Emperor Henry, all seats were finally filled, each Duke's face reflecting a mixture of reverence and anticipation.

  "Duke Izark, I was still contemplating where I should hold the Empire's meeting when I received your envoy. So, I decided your Dukedom should be a good choice." Emperor Henry said, his eyes fixed on Duke Izark with a measured gaze.

  "It's my pleasure, Your Excellency." Izark responded, bowing his head slightly, a hint of pride in his voice.

  Other Dukes couldn't help but envy Duke Izark and regret not inviting the Emperor themselves, their faces betraying fleeting expressions of frustration and missed opportunity.

  "It's a rare occasion for all the Dukes of my Empire to get together. So, let's enjoy the banquet." the Emperor continued, his tone both commanding and convivial.

  The servants quickly got to work, and soon the table was filled with various delicacies, the platters steaming with sumptuous food. Roasted meats, exotic fruits, and an array of desserts created a feast for the senses.

  "I have prepared a small surprise for you all." Izark gestured with his hands. The servants brought a bottle of wine to each Duke. As they opened the bottles, an entrancing aroma filled the banquet hall, drawing everyone's attention toward the main table.

  Each Duke was served a glass of wine, and the guests were captivated by the heavenly fragrance. The rich, velvety scent wafted through the air, tantalizing their senses and heightening their curiosity.

  "Please try our new wine, 'Crimson Elegance' brewed in Gremory Dukedom. This is a new specialty of our territory." Izark announced, his voice tinged with pride.

  Everyone present at the main table was poured a glass of the wine. This wine had been greatly improved by Zain over the last few months, making it many times better than the first product. The ruby liquid swirled in their goblets, catching the light and reflecting a deep, alluring glow.

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  The Emperor and the Dukes tried the wine. As the liquid touched their lips, whispers of anticipation filled the air. Each sip unfolded a symphony of flavors, rich and complex, with hints of dark berries, oak, and a subtle spice. The connoisseurs exchanged nods of approval, their faces lighting up with appreciation, sealing the bond of refined taste in their minds.

  "It's been a long time since I tasted a wine this rich in flavor." the Emperor said, a slight red flush on his striking face. The Dukes also nodded in recognition, clearly loving the wine, their expressions one of delight and admiration.

  Izark quickly took the opportunity and gifted a hundred bottles of 'Crimson Elegance' to the Emperor. Even Dukes and other nobles showed interest in buying the wine, their curiosity piqued by the exquisite taste. Izark and Zain's plan was a success. They had introduced the wine to a wide noble circle, their faces reflecting satisfaction at the positive reception.

  Now, all that remained was for the wine to become more known, leading to increased demand and more profits. The wine became the main attraction of the banquet, as the nobles enjoyed its unique taste, the rich flavors lingering on their palates.

  Near midnight, the banquet came to an end. The guests proceeded to their lodgings to rest, their conversations still buzzing with the evening's delights and the tantalizing taste of 'Crimson Elegance.'

  ---

  Tomorrow marked Zain's highly anticipated Coming of Age ceremony, a momentous occasion that coincided with his eagerly awaited fourteenth birthday. Standing on the balcony of his room, he gazed pensively at the moonlit Vermillion City, contemplating the events that lay ahead. The city below was a sea of twinkling lights, the night air cool and filled with the distant sounds of the bustling metropolis.

  "You have a significant day ahead." a melodious voice broke the silence, drawing his attention.

  Turning around, he found Raina, his mentor, standing gracefully in the room. Her presence was calming, her voice soothing. "Not really. I'd prefer to skip tomorrow's ceremony." Zain replied, a hint of reluctance in his voice, his eyes betraying his apprehension.

  "How could you possibly consider missing it? You're the main guest, and as your mentor, I am eagerly anticipating your performance." Raina countered with a gentle smile, her eyes reflecting encouragement and support.

  Zain's thoughts drifted to the sparring match scheduled for the ceremony. "Raina, what can I expect?" he asked, his voice tinged with nervous curiosity.

  "The ceremony itself is quite straightforward. You'll ascend to the main platform to receive blessings from your father and the Emperor. Following that, some of your peers will step forward, offering you the opportunity to engage in a spar. However, in your case, your contenders will be the young masters of the Duke families or even members of the Royal family." Raina explained thoughtfully, her tone patient and reassuring.

  "Are there any adversaries I should be particularly cautious of?" Zain inquired, a tinge of apprehension in his voice, his brow furrowed in concern.

  "While most are skilled, three individuals warrant your attention: Wayne, son of Duke Solomon; Raymond, son of Duke Richard; and Rivera Bloodlock, granddaughter of the Emperor. They boast formidable prowess as being above Acolyte Grade 5, posing a considerable challenge. Despite your aptitude as a battle mage, you currently stand at Acolyte Grade 3." Raina cautioned, her expression serious.

  Acolyte Grade 5 marked a significant juncture in the cultivation journey for the experts. Warriors attained the ability to manifest their Inner Force, while mages could cast spells by harnessing their Mana.

  Zain, however, found himself unable to manifest his Inner Force, placing him at a disadvantage against Grade 5 warriors. His proficiency as a Grade 3 battle mage granted him a marginally stronger physique and enhanced mental power, yet proved insufficient against formidable adversaries. Hence, Raina's admonition to exercise caution.

  "I'll bear that in mind." Zain affirmed, his resolve evident in his gaze, his determination steeling his nerves.

  With a gentle reminder to rest, Raina departed, leaving Zain to contemplate the challenges that lay ahead. As the silence enveloped the room once more, Zain remained rooted on the balcony, his mind consumed by anticipation. The night air was cool against his skin, the moon casting a silvery glow over the city below.

  "Raina, I wonder what expression you will have tomorrow." Zain mused aloud, his form enveloped in a fierce, crimson Inner Force—an unmistakable manifestation of the warrior spirit, typically attainable only by Grade 5 warriors. The energy crackled around him, a testament to his hidden potential and the power he had yet to fully unleash.

  ---

  "How is he? He isn't nervous, right?" Izark asked as Raina entered his study after leaving Zain's room. His voice carried a note of concern, his brow furrowed with worry.

  "No, he is fine." Raina replied, her tone confident and reassuring.

  "Are you sure?" Izark pressed, his eyes searching hers for any sign of doubt.

  "Yes, Duke. He will be fine." Raina affirmed, her voice steady and composed.

  Izark nodded, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. "I know he is different." he murmured, his voice filled with a mix of pride and uncertainty.