Lights. Symphony. Action.
The bright lights of the grand hall and the musical symphony by the on-stage band immersed its occupants in a magical world. The various small and monumental fountains in the palace danced in sync with the music and added to the vibrant atmosphere. The rankers couldn't help but be amazed by the spectacle in front of them.
Eren's first partner for the night was Marla.
Marla wore a black bouffant dress with violet rose details that accentuated her curves in all the right places. Her light olive skin tone looked beige under bright lights, complementing her violet hair that cascaded down her back in soft waves. The floral perfume with light lavender notes she wore added to her allure.
She wore violet gem earrings and a wrist chain with a violet rose ornament that matched her dress perfectly. Her kitten heels footwear allowed her to glide across the dance floor easily, adding to her graceful demeanor.
Marla's bodacious figure was nearly impossible to ignore, with a prominent bust and an attractive face accentuated by her radiant smile. Her light brown eyes sparkled with delight as she moved along with Eren in a slow dance, turning heads with her stunning appearance.
Eren and Marla swayed together to the slow and romantic ballad the band played. The couple's vision was filled with the grand hall and the way it was adorned with twinkling lights. The fountain's ever-flowing sound added to the dreamy atmosphere.
Eren pulled Marla closer, feeling her warmth against his. "You look absolutely stunning tonight," he whispered in her ear, his lips brushing against her skin.
Marla smiled, blushing at his words. "Thank you, Eren. You look pretty dashing yourself."
Eren chuckled, "I guess we both cleaned up well for the occasion."
As they danced, Marla rested her head on Eren's chest, enjoying the steady beat of his heart. "I can't believe I'll dance with one of my apprentices one day," she said, looking up at Eren. "Feels like just yesterday I taught you the basics of close combat."
Eren grinned, "Yeah. Frankly, I enjoyed those days learning under you. I had to struggle a lot to get rid of my shortcomings pointed out by you. And now we're here, celebrating my hard work and achievements together."
Marla smiled, "I'm glad you surpassed my expectations, Eren. But don't underestimate me. I'll catch up with you soon."
Eren tilted his head, looking down at her, "Kekeke. I'm counting on it. The White Raven Guild's members need to be at least this ambitious. There's no point hiring them otherwise."
Marla laughed. "I'm glad I made the cut," she teased.
Eren twirled her around, pulling her back into his embrace. "You'll always make the cut, Marla."
Eren flashed a wicked smile as Marla and the latter looked at him knowingly.
As they continued to dance, the music changed to a faster tempo, and the other graduates joined them on the dance floor. Eren and Marla laughed as they tried to keep up with the others' dance moves. However, they were content enjoying each other's company and celebrating their achievements.
The on-stage band played the composition Eren had created during the poetry challenge, and the atmosphere became even more charged.
Eren's dancing partner changed midway as if it was a planned event.
Almera joined Eren for the dance looking stunning. She was dressed in a sleek and elegant black halter dress that clung to her figure in all the right places.
Her hair was styled into a sleek and sophisticated updo, revealing her sharp and attractive facial features. Almera's simple white diamond necklace added just the right amount of sparkle to her ensemble.
Despite her tall stature, Almera had a slim figure with curves in all the right places. Her cone-soled shoes made her taller, giving her confidence and poise. As she moved gracefully across the dance floor, all eyes were on her.
Almera had a natural elegance and sophistication that was undeniable. Her sharp features and stunning black dress exuded an air of mystery and allure that was hard to resist.
Eren and Almera danced to the beat, matching their moves with the other dancing pairs around them. The synchronized actions and movements made Almera feel like she was a part of something bigger, something magical.
As they moved in unison, Eren and Almera exchanged glances and smiles, enjoying each other's company. "You're an excellent dancer, Eren," Almera said as she looked at Eren with admiration. "I could say the same about you," Eren replied, feeling a rush of excitement.
They danced for a few more moments, and Almera couldn't help but feel the sexual tension between them. It was as if Grimdawn's Sin of Lust had a mind of its own as it tried to influence every female ranker around him. It was as if his current intentions were enough to fuel his Sin Series Abilities to cast their effects passively.
Eren could feel Almera's body close to his, and smell her perfume mixed with her natural scent. "You smell amazing," he whispered into her ear, making her blush even more.
Almera could have never believed that the guy she had once tried to chase in the Beast Sanctuary, AKA Besanc, would one day ask her hand for a ball dance. She looked at Eren with a hint of mischief in her eyes. "Are you trying to make a move on me, Mr. Grimdawn? You already have many partners to pick from. You don't really need me," she said, teasing him.
Eren chuckled and pulled her closer. "Keke. None of them are Almera. You are different from the rest," he replied, feeling emboldened by the charged atmosphere.
They continued to dance, and Eren and Almera felt like the world around them had faded away. All that mattered was the music, the dance, and the proximity. As the night progressed, they danced and talked, enjoying each other's company in the magical world of the floating white palace.
The music track for the Ball changed suddenly after some time. And with it changed the company Eren had for the Ball.
