EA-R-TH Age of NeOlwd

Chapter 5 - Lypimenous Nisipazl

Maverick got down the stage behind the council members; he searched for his friends but the huge crowd made it difficult for him to find. Maverick spotted a big lantern above one of the feasting tables; he lowered his head and closely examined the dying fire inside the rusty lantern. Although no wind could enter the lantern, the fire swished vigorously and died. Maverick felt a gentle tap on his shoulders and spun around. A bulwark stood stiffly and said in a humble tone, “Sir, the Royal Table is waiting for you.”

Maverick asked, “The what?” Since his mind was already occupied with the dying light in the lantern, it suppressed his knowledge about the Royal Table.

“Sir, the council members, the chief, and your family are waiting for you to join the feast at the Royal Table,” the bulwark explained humbly.

“Oh, I’m sorry. I just—”

“Please,” the bulwark stretched his hand towards the crowd.

Maverick and the bulwark passed through the crowd and reached the Royal Table. Jurisbard, Specsolven, Empirica, Swanky, Aegis, Sugaall, and all council members and department heads were seated at the Royal Table, which was decorated with a variety of roasted fish, eggs, and wheat.

Everyone’s eyes were fixed on the delicious dishes except Jurisbard’s and Aegis’s family. Specsolven scratched his bald head and yawned heavily. Swanky licked his lips in hunger. The moment Maverick showed up at the Royal Table everyone breathed a relief except Jurisbard who looked furiously at Maverick; he waved his hand at the bulwark who escorted Maverick. The bulwark bowed and disappeared into the crowd.

Aegis looked more furious than Jurisbard. Maverick sat between Aegis and Sugaall. All eyes were on Maverick. Aegis tilted his head slightly towards Maverick and said, “Where did you go? We all were waiting for you. Why are you so irresponsible?” Aegis tried to whisper but even Swanky who sat directly opposite to them at the big round table heard them with a delighted face.

Jurisbard cleared his throat. “No need to scold your son, Aegis. Youngsters are just curious. Let’s start our feast.”

The moment Jurisbard uttered those final words, everyone at the table filled their plates with a variety of dishes. Swanky, who ate hurriedly at first slowed down after realizing Sugaall was noticing him.

Empirica said, “Situations like this are very rare to happen. I’m really happy to share the Royal Table with Maverick Ciekawy and his family. It’s a special night for me too.”
“The honor is ours really, Madam Empirica,” said Aegis “I’m so glad to hear such humble words about our family—”

“Even after Maverick disrespected the Royal Table,” Swanky interrupted. “Swank, shut up, I warned you,” said Empirica, sternly with a fake smile. “Excuse my son, Aegis. He gets upset when he misses his meal.”

“No need for you to apologize, Madam. The mistake is my son’s,” said Aegis; he turned to Maverick and said, “Go on, apologize.”
Swanky’s face got brightened.

“Um, I’m sorry for showing up late at the Royal Table. I hope you all forgive me,” said Maverick. Except for Jurisbard’s and Aegis’s families, everyone was keen on finishing the dishes on their plates.

“Apology accepted,” said Swanky raising his charming face, with a malign smile.

Jurisbard looked calmly at the conversation, and said, “People… you are making Mr. Maverick uncomfortable. He’s the center of attention tonight. Let him enjoy his freedom while he can because after joining Bulwarking I hardly think he will have time to enjoy.”

Everyone went clueless. Swanky coughed when he heard those words from his grandfather, the water he drank spilled out of his mouth. Specsolven, who was eating busily raised his head instantly, the big fish he was eating hung down vertically from his mouth. Even Maverick’s eyebrows rose in shock.