As Eren approached the four Grandmaster-ranked entities, an air of peculiar interest surrounded them. Callista led the way, walking with purpose in front of Eren, while Marla and Almera positioned themselves on either side, forming a protective escort around him.
Taking on the role of guides, Marla and Almera began providing Eren with insights into the identities of the three Matriarchs accompanying Valeria. Eager to acquaint Eren with their fellow leaders, they explained each Matriarch's name and nature.
To Valeria's right stood Seraphina Riversong, a Matriarch Priestess who looked to be in her late 20s. Her silky smooth brunette hair cascaded down her face, reaching the length of her breasts. Her deep black eyes and well-defined lips added a touch of allure to her moderate brown skin tone.
The glimmering gold necklace adorned with an attractive pendant, featuring a light blue gem, complemented her appearance. Dressed in light armor with shoulder guards and arm bracers, Seraphina exuded both grace and strength. Her knee-length skirt completed her attire, accentuating her youthful presence among the gathered Matriarchs.
Positioned to Valeria's left was Evelina Green, an enchanting beauty with shoulder-length wavy green hair that bounced with every step. Her fuller red lips and rosy skin tone emanated vibrant energy, while her blue eyes sparkled with intelligence and intrigue. The delicate pendant earrings she wore, pulsating with mana, marked them as treasured Amazonian artifacts.
Clad in a green top and dark green pants, Evelina's attire highlighted her feminine curves, including a prominent bust left unshielded by armor. Her round posterior and shapely legs exuded both allure and strength. By mortal standards, Evelina appeared to be in her early 30s, and her lively presence resonated with the abundant forces of nature.
Standing next to Evelina was Isadora Frostborne, a woman exuding an air of stoicism and a chilling aura. Her waist-length silver hair effortlessly bounced off the surrounding light, accentuating her slim figure and tall stature.
With a graceful presence, Isadora possessed an ample bust and smooth, supple white skin, which beautifully contrasted against her peach-colored lips and gray eyes. Her attractive face radiated an alluring elegance. Draped in a flowing, graceful blue dress and adorned with arm bracers, Isadora commanded attention.
Eren couldn't help but wonder how much more captivating Isadora would appear if a smile graced her features. Isadora's hourglass figure emphasized both her beauty and her inherent danger.
The four Matriarch Priestesses stood in a line, facing Eren as he positioned himself before them, standing his ground with confidence. Marla, Almera, and Callista paused a few meters away, bowing respectfully to the Matriarchs before stepping aside. They remained on the sidelines, observing silently, as Eren took center stage, prepared to conduct his business with these revered Grandmaster entities. The weight of the moment hung in the air, and the collective attention of the onlookers intensified, eagerly awaiting the outcome of their interaction.
As Eren stood before the four Matriarchs, his voice carried with it a genuine sense of respect and admiration. With a smile gracing his face, he addressed them one by one, his words laced with sincerity. He gracefully bowed, his right hand forming a V-sign with his index and middle fingers pressed against his chest, a customary greeting in Amazonian tradition.
"It's nice to finally meet you," Eren said, his voice filled with warmth. "May the blessings of the Great Mother always be upon us."
Eren straightened himself up, standing tall and composed. It was evident that he had done his homework on the Amazonian culture, meticulously remembering everything that was taught to him by Almera and Marla, even on such short notice. The genuine and polite manner in which Eren greeted the Matriarchs instantly improved their perception of him, except for Isadora, who displayed a softened gaze instead of a smile—quite an accomplishment in the eyes of the Amazonians.
"I like this boy," Evelina Green remarked, turning to Valeria. "No wonder Marla spoke so highly of him."
Seraphina, wearing an inviting smile, chimed in, "Indeed, he has a charm about him." The atmosphere became more relaxed and amicable, as the Matriarchs appreciated Eren's respectful demeanor.
Valeria took a step forward, acknowledging Eren's greeting with a nod. Her voice carried a hint of care that she usually reserved for her trusted juniors. "Blessings of the Great Mother be upon us, Eren. I know you are a very busy man, so thank you for coming here on such short notice."
Eren replied with sincerity, his words reflecting his fascination with the Amazonian way of life. "The pleasure is all mine, Matriarch Valeria. I am truly captivated by the Amazonian lifestyle, so well attuned with nature—simple and profound at the same time. I only wish I had ample time to explore the settlement and interact with the people for a week or two. I'm certain I would have enjoyed my time here."
Seraphina and Evelina chuckled, appreciating Eren's genuine interest. Evelina playfully extended an invitation, saying, "You are welcome to visit my settlement anytime in the future, Eren. I can assure you a warm welcome."
Not wanting to be left out, Seraphina joined in, extending her own invitation. "And I'll invite you to my settlement too, Eren. Though we may not be as numerous, we have a lively group of people, and I'm sure you'll get along just fine."
Amidst the camaraderie, Isadora's serious tone cut through, offering her own invitation solemnly and confidently. "Eren, if you wish to meet capable Amazonians of your generation, visit my settlement in the future. My teams always emerge victorious in the annual war games."
Seraphina couldn't resist responding with a sigh, highlighting the value of more than just winning. "Winning war games isn't everything, Isa. I wish you could understand that."
Evelina chimed in playfully, lightly touching Isadora's shoulder. "Haha, there's no changing Isadora. Eren, trust me, you don't want to be in her camp during our war games. She'll work you to death."
Isadora registered her protest with a light "hmph!" but chose not to engage further. As the conversation continued, the auras of the three Grandmaster-ranked Matriarchs involuntarily leaked, creating a suppressive air around them. Valeria, dealing with the differing moods and dynamics among the Matriarchs, bore the stress on her forehead. Acting as the senior among them, she raised her hand to halt the idle banter.
"Enough of your idle talks, ladies," Valeria asserted with authority. "We have serious business to discuss with our guest, Eren. It's time to fulfill our roles as heads of our respective settlements."
With Valeria's authoritative voice commanding attention, the atmosphere finally quieted, allowing the focus to shift back to the important matters at hand.
