"Hm? If it isn't Marla and Almera from the Ungracelands!"
Just as Eren, Marla, and Almera were about to cross the small bridge spanning a crystal-clear stream, a voice called out from behind them, interrupting their journey. Their curiosity piqued, and the trio turned around simultaneously, their gazes falling upon the unexpected speaker.
Amidst the bustling Amazonian settlement, a remarkable female Amazonian ranker emerged, instantly capturing the attention of Eren and his companions. She exuded an aura of power and confidence, her presence demanding recognition and respect. Her appearance was a striking blend of strength and grace, leaving an indelible impression on those who beheld her.
Tall and statuesque, she possessed flowing locks of whitish-gray hair that cascaded down to her waist. Her countenance was a perfect juxtaposition of beauty and determination, with a touch of sternness that hinted at her formidable nature. Her eyes, a mesmerizing shade of sparkling gray, held both wisdom and an underlying intensity.
Dressed in an ensemble that harmonized her warrior spirit and feminine grace, she epitomized the essence of an Amazonian warrior. Her attire showcased meticulous craftsmanship, combining practicality with ornate detailing that reflected the rich Amazonian culture and their reverence for the Great Mother.
The armor she wore, skillfully crafted from enchanted leather, accentuated her lithe form while providing both protection and mobility. Adorned with ancient symbols, the armor seemed to resonate with the Amazonian heritage, honoring their profound connection to nature. Its dark hues seamlessly blended with the shadows of the forest, allowing her to move undetected when necessary.
Her torso was encased in a sturdy breastplate adorned with intricate carvings of entwining vines and majestic creatures, symbolizing the Amazonians' profound bond with the natural world. The pauldrons gracefully draped over her shoulders, their delicate leaf-like edges serving as a subtle reminder of her allegiance to the forest.
Enchanting gauntlets, a blend of metal and enchanted wood shielded her arms. Etched with ancient glyphs, they bore the marks of countless battles, testifying to her expertise in combat. Her hands were sheathed in fingerless gloves, affording her both dexterity and a firm grip on her weapons.
A flowing skirt, crafted from layers of silk and lightweight leather, cascaded down from her waist in earthy tones reminiscent of the forest's vibrant foliage. With each step, the skirt swayed and danced, lending an ethereal grace to her movements.
Her ensemble was completed by sturdy boots, meticulously fashioned from supple leather. Offering a perfect balance of protection and agility, they featured intricate lacing and engraved patterns that mirrored the exquisite designs found throughout her armor.
To emphasize her status as a Valiant Priestess, she adorned herself with ornamental accessories. A medallion, bearing the sacred sigil of the Great Mother, rested against her chest, its delicate chain embracing her with divine protection.
Gleaming bracelets graced her wrists, adorned with shimmering gemstones that caught the light with every gesture. Nestled within her hair, she wore a crown-like circlet embellished with feathers and glistening gemstones, signifying her spiritual connection with the Great Mother.
With each step she took, the female Amazonian ranker commanded attention, embodying the resilience, beauty, and unwavering faith of her people. Her attire, a testament to her dedication and skill, conveyed an unmistakable message of strength, reminding all who beheld her of the indomitable spirit that defined the Amazonian tribe.
'Ungracelands? What does that mean?'
Curiosity tinged Eren's voice as he turned to Almera, his doubt evident, and inquired about the unfamiliar term. The gray-haired woman, with a warm smile adorning her face, drew nearer, prompting Eren to seek clarification. Almera, ever ready to provide answers, responded promptly, enlightening him on the meaning of Ungracelands.
"It signifies the lands untouched by the benevolent blessings of the Great Mother," Almera explained, her words carrying a hint of solemnity. "The Amazonians call regions outside their autonomous zones Ungracelands. Those hailing from such areas are known as Ungracelanders, or sometimes referred to simply as impious."
Eren absorbed Almera's explanation, comprehension dawning upon him. He couldn't help but draw a parallel between the concept of Ungracelands and the notion of outsiders in the eyes of those who completely belong to Anfang. Just as the Badlands harbored monstrous beings alien to those from Anfang, the Amazonians viewed outsiders through a similar lens. With a wry internal smile, Eren reflected on the fact that, at least, they hadn't labeled them as uncultured monsters outright.
As the Amazonian beauty drew closer, Eren mulled over the intricate dynamics between different territories and their respective perceptions. It was a reminder of the complexities that lay beneath the surface, revealing the nuances of cultural distinctions and their impact on interactions.
The gray-haired woman stood before the trio, her presence commanding attention. Marla and Almera exchanged knowing glances, recognizing the intentions of the figure before them. They both concluded that this gray-haired woman wanted to duel with Eren. But this was something Eren couldn't avoid entirely.
With a simple nod, the two ladies acknowledged her, acknowledging their familiarity. The gray-haired woman's gaze shifted to Eren, curiosity flickering in her eyes, eager to learn more about the newcomer.
Taking the initiative, Marla turned towards Eren, preparing to introduce him to the woman. However, before she could speak, Eren gently placed his hands on Marla's shoulders and stepped forward, assuming the role of introducer. He met Callista's gaze with a warm smile, making a connection before uttering his own introduction.
"Nice to meet you, Valiant Callista," Eren spoke with confidence, his voice carrying a hint of elegance. "I'm Eren Elijah Idril. I'm here at the invitation of Matriarch Valeria."
Eren's self-assured manner impressed Callista, causing a subtle shift in her perception of him. She appreciated the fact that Eren addressed her as a Valiant rather than a mere Expert ranker, despite his origins in the Ungracelands. It signaled his willingness to immerse himself in the Amazonian culture. Nodding in acknowledgment, Callista responded in a welcoming tone.
"You are welcome here, Eren Idril," Callista's voice exuded warmth, accompanied by a playful undertone. "Word of your kingdom's bona fide title has already reached our ears since its bestowal upon you."
Her runic tattoos glowed faintly as her aura expanded, creating a palpable pressure in the air. Callista's eyes glimmered with a hint of a challenge as she continued, her voice tinged with a battle-seeking edge.
"However," she paused, her gaze piercing into Eren's, "here, we do not recognize your title as the Grimdawn. These seemingly imposing titles are just something merely bestowed upon Ungracelanders by their own kind. Hehe. I hear you have deep pockets. Have you truly earned that title, or did you simply purchase it for yourself?"
