Although the banquet was held to celebrate their victory and honor the warriors, the luxurious dishes spread throughout the hall were mostly left untouched.
This wasn't because the food wasn't enticing—far from it. These high-level, mouthwatering delicacies were simply overshadowed by a far more valuable opportunity: socializing with the influential figures gathered here.
Among the attendees were nobles, knights, and adventurers.
Unlike Elrode, where adventurers were often dismissed as lowly commoners, the Belzerg Kingdom valued strength as a measure of one's worth. Even adventurers who proved powerful enough could earn the respect of the royal family and high-ranking nobles.
For Kazuma's party—aside from Darkness, who was a noble herself—this kind of event would normally be a chance to indulge in the untouched feast. No doubt their shameless attitudes would lead them to stand out as much as a pack of huskies among wolves or a golden horse among thoroughbreds. But they never cared, as long as they could fill their stomachs.
Today, however, none of them could be found near the food.
Aqua had been dragged off by Nero.
Megumin, who had performed brilliantly in the battle, casting an explosion spell directly into the densest cluster of enemies, now found herself surrounded by a crowd of admiring magic users. Yunyun stood by her side, basking in the shared attention.
Kazuma, on the other hand, was in the complete opposite situation. His performance had been downright embarrassing—killed by lowly kobolds and revived only to become a laughingstock. Now, he was crouched in a dark corner, hugging his knees, trying to make himself invisible.
Even Aqua, despite her antics, had gained significant praise for healing many and casting the legendary resurrection spell in front of countless witnesses. Those who had experienced her powers firsthand now flocked to her side in admiration.
Darkness, as usual, had performed exceptionally well, holding the line alone and preventing any enemies from breaking through her defense.
The banquet hall buzzed with conversations praising everyone—except Kazuma.
Many questioned how someone like Kazuma could even be a part of a team with heroes like Darkness, Megumin, and Aqua. Some openly suggested that they should kick him out and join Nero's party instead, remarking that they might have defeated the Demon King already if they had.
Even Kazuma's previous achievement of defeating Kyouya Mitsurugi in single combat was being doubted.
Now utterly isolated, Kazuma sat alone in the shadows, as though the world had abandoned him. The laughter and applause felt miles away, unreachable and mocking.
No matter how much he envied them, no matter how bitterly he stewed in his self-pity, he couldn't muster the strength to raise his head.
This time, he truly had embarrassed himself beyond measure—especially after making such grand boasts before the battle.
The fact that he hadn't chosen to commit seppuku to atone for his shame was, he thought, a testament to his thick skin.
The banquet was meant to celebrate those who had contributed to the battle. How could he justify being here when he'd done nothing but drag everyone down?
His stomach growled loudly again, but Kazuma couldn't bring himself to stand and approach the feast.
"Damn it, I'm starving…"
His teammates, enjoying their newfound acclaim, didn't even seem to notice his absence.
It wasn't the loneliness that hurt the most—it was watching those closest to him bask in glory while leaving him behind.
Just as his thoughts began spiraling into deeper self-loathing, a soft voice broke through the gloom.
"Umu! Kazuma, what are you doing here all by yourself? Sulking in a corner doesn't suit you."
The voice was light and melodic, yet brimming with energy, lifting his spirits almost immediately.
This dark, forgotten corner had been chosen precisely because no one would bother him here.
Yet Nero's arrival brought an almost tangible light to the space, her presence chasing away the oppressive shadows.
"Nero?" Kazuma looked up, puzzled by her appearance.
Why was someone like her here, in this dreary corner?
"You look hungry. Shall I fetch some food for you?" Nero offered kindly. "It doesn't seem like you're eager to show your face right now. Just tell me what you'd like. I heard from Alice and Claire that a new chef, renowned for their culinary skills, prepared some of tonight's dishes. You're in for a treat."
Her warmth and thoughtfulness were like a balm to Kazuma's fragile ego.
Damn it. Why is she so perfect?
Why couldn't his teammates learn from Nero? She was the epitome of an ideal friend—kind, understanding, and attentive.
"Nero…"
"Umu? What is it?"
"I think I've fallen for you. Will you marry me?"
"Sorry, you're a good person…"
"NOOOOO! Don't give me that cruel, soul-crushing response! I can't handle being handed a Good Person Card right now!"
Despite his dramatic protest, Nero's presence had eased some of the burden weighing on Kazuma's heart.
Before he could say more, a commotion drew their attention.
The noise came from Darkness's direction.
Darkness was extremely popular, not just for her status as a high-level adventurer but also as a noblewoman—the daughter of the Dustiness family, one of the kingdom's most prestigious houses. Alongside Claire's family, they were considered the "Shield and Sword" of Belzerg.
Despite Kazuma being the official leader of their party, it was always referred to as "Lady Dustiness's team." Aqua, Megumin, and Kazuma himself were often introduced as "Lady Dustiness's companions."
From the moment they entered the hall, Darkness had been overwhelmed by the attention. Her polite smile looked more forced by the second, as countless admirers surrounded her.
Nero had overheard some of them asking about Darkness's marital prospects earlier.
The suitors vying for Darkness's attention were all confident, handsome men—so much so that even Nero had to admit they fit the description of "charming gentlemen."
However, their attempts at subtlety were laughable. Their blazing gazes betrayed their true intentions, and their empty compliments only added to the awkwardness.
Then, one bold man spoke up, his tone laced with disdain.
"Lady Dustiness has achieved countless feats of glory in recent years. Just recently, she even fought alongside Nero to defeat one of the Demon King's generals. She deserves someone far better than any of the people here. None of you are worthy of her."