Pretending to be a noob in a world scaled by power level

[128] The afterparty

The night air was pulsing with joyous energy as the streets of Roma transformed into a vibrant carnival. The cobblestone paths that usually housed the hustle and bustle of daily life were now decked in alluring shades of red, gold, and green, the celebratory colors shimmering under the warm glow of thousands of lanterns and fairy lights strung from building to building.

Grand marquees, each filled with an assortment of captivating games and delectable food stands, lined the main avenue. Stall keepers enticed passersby with the scent of freshly baked pastries, skewers of succulent meats, and the tantalizing aroma of exotic spices. Children darted between adults, their laughter ringing out as they chased each other, their faces painted in vibrant hues, each carrying a trinket or toy won from the myriad of game booths.

Majestic floats, each more spectacular than the last, made their way slowly down the main street. They were adorned with sparkling lights and elaborate decorations, each representing a different story or theme, from mythical beasts to legendary heroes. Performers atop these floats entertained the crowd with their acrobatics, fire juggling, and magical displays, the spectators gasping in delight and awe.

Music filled the air, a symphony of live bands and solo performers stationed at every corner, their melodies melding together in a harmonious cacophony that was somehow perfectly suited to the atmosphere. Jesters and jestresses danced through the streets, enchanting the crowd with their rhythmic movements and witty banter.

At the heart of it all was the grand stage set up in the piazza, where the final ceremonies were to take place. Towering above the sea of people, it was a spectacle to behold, lit up with an array of lights that painted the sky with their luminescence.

In every corner, laughter and cheers echoed, joy was shared, and memories were created. This was a night Roma would remember for a long time, a night filled with celebration, spectacle, and most importantly, unity.

***

Inside the bustling tavern, the sound of clinking glasses, boisterous laughter, and lively chatter filled the air. At a sturdy oak table in the corner, the girls and I were sharing a toast.

Raising her mug, Kuroko declared, "To our champion, Wang-Yi-Fei, for defeating that demon prince and making us all proud!" Her eyes sparkled with mischief as she took a hearty swig of her drink.

Sera, with a blush coating her cheeks from the ale, huffed. "Yeah, well, he wouldn't have done it without us cheering him on," she grumbled, trying to hide the pride in her voice. Her tsundere nature came out as she raised her glass in a less enthusiastic, but sincere toast.

Aurelia, holding her goblet with an air of elegance, chimed in, "Indeed. We mustn't forget that our collective strength played a part in this victory as well." The fiery girl flashed a competitive grin at me, her eyes burning with determination for the battles to come.

Lila, holding her glass shyly, was more reserved in her celebration. "We're all very proud of you, Wang-Yi-Fei," she said quietly, her cheeks turning pink as she looked down at her drink.

Feeling the warmth of their company, I raised my own glass and said, "Here's to a victory well earned, and to the most supportive friends a guy could ask for." As our glasses clinked together, we all shared a moment of victorious celebration.

In the midst of our jubilant celebration, a figure approached our table. The figure was none other than Alicia, the 7th princess of Ayre, an accomplished adventurer in her own right, and a familiar face.

A playful smirk adorned her beautiful face, her long, wavy blonde hair catching the tavern's dim light. Her sapphire eyes twinkled with mischief as she stood confidently in her light knight armor. The energy around her was electrifying, a testament to her strength and charm.