The grand city of Pranimzean had never looked more alive. The streets were adorned with colorful banners swaying gently in the wind, golden lanterns illuminating the cobbled pathways. The scent of roasted meats and sweet pastries mixed with the crisp evening air, creating an inviting atmosphere that wrapped around the city like a warm embrace.
Ainz stood at the grand entrance, watching the bustling streets. It had been a long time since he had taken a moment for himself. His responsibilities, his power, his hidden identity—none of it mattered today. Today was about friendship.
"Ainz!"
The familiar voice of Elara rang through the noise. Ainz turned to see him pushing through the crowd, his auburn hair tousled from the wind, his usual carefree grin in place. Behind him, a few of their old friends followed, their expressions bright with excitement.
"You actually showed up!" Elara practically lunged at him, gripping his shoulders. "I thought you'd be too busy doing mysterious high-level stuff!"
Ainz chuckled, shaking his head. "And miss the chance to see you make a fool of yourself? Never."
"Ha! See? He does have a sense of humor!" Ryn, the tall warrior with dark braided hair, crossed her arms. "We almost forgot what it was like to hear you joke, Ainz."
Joran, a bulky man with scars on his arms, smirked. "I say we get him drunk and see if he loosens up."
Ainz rolled his eyes, but the warmth in his chest was undeniable. It had been too long since he had been surrounded by people who treated him like Ainz—not a ruler, not a warrior, not a hidden monster in disguise, but just another friend.
"Come on!" Elara threw an arm around his shoulder, dragging him forward. "There's a whole festival waiting for us!"
A Night of Celebration
The streets were alive with energy. Acrobats twirled through the air, juggling enchanted flames that left glowing trails. Musicians played lively tunes, their melodies weaving through the conversations and laughter of the people. Children ran past, clutching festival treats in their hands.
Ainz and his group stopped by a food stall selling skewers of grilled beast meat, their scent irresistible.
"Here, try this!" Elara shoved a stick into Ainz's hand.
Ainz took a bite and immediately paused. His eyes narrowed.
"This… has alchemical enhancements," he muttered.
The group groaned.
"Damn it, Ainz," Joran laughed. "We're here to eat, not analyze the ingredients!"
Ainz smirked. "It's good. Just strong."
They moved through the festival, stopping at various game stalls. Joran attempted a strength-based challenge, effortlessly shattering the high score. Ryn engaged in a sparring match with one of the festival's hired warriors, emerging victorious with a grin. Elara? He somehow managed to win a massive stuffed beast plushie from a simple dart-throwing game.
"This is rigged," Ryn muttered.
"Not my fault I have natural talent," Elara said smugly, cradling his plushie.
They eventually found themselves in the central plaza, where dancers in colorful robes performed mesmerizing routines. Some carried glowing orbs that created intricate patterns in the air, while others moved in perfect synchronization with the enchanting music.
Ainz watched in silence. It was beautiful.
"See?" Elara nudged him. "Worth it, huh?"
Ainz exhaled softly. "Yeah."
The Tavern Gathering
As the night deepened, the group found themselves in a bustling tavern. The wooden interior was warm, filled with the sound of clinking mugs and joyous cheers. The owner, recognizing Elara, greeted them enthusiastically and led them to a reserved table.
"A toast!" Joran raised his drink. "To our long-awaited reunion!"
"To Ainz finally leaving his damn dungeon!" Elara added, grinning.
The table erupted in laughter as they clinked their mugs together.
"You all act like I never leave my home," Ainz muttered.
"Because you don't," Ryn shot back.
The conversation flowed naturally—stories of their past adventures, exaggerated tales of Elara's so-called 'heroic' moments, and a lot of teasing at Ainz's expense.
At some point, Elara leaned closer, his expression more serious.
"You know, Ainz… I'm glad you're here."
Ainz glanced at him, surprised.
"You disappear so much these days," Elara continued. "It's good to see you just existing with us. No battles, no stress. Just… being."
Ainz stared at his drink for a moment before a small smile tugged at his lips.
"Yeah," he murmured. "It's good to be here."
Outside, the night sky exploded with fireworks—gold and blue streaking across the darkness, illuminating Pranimzean in its full glory.
Ainz leaned back, watching the display in silence.
For once, there was no fighting, no planning, no bloodshed.
Just laughter, warmth, and the feeling of belonging.