The Great Hall buzzed with energy as the upperclassmen's Freshmen Welcome Party reached its peak. Lanterns swayed slightly, casting flickering light across polished floors. Floating mana orbs spiraled in rhythm with the music, adding shimmer to the already vibrant room.
Alex descended the stairs, drawing immediate attention. His outfit was daring—a sleek black backless top, a short skirt that allowed freedom of movement, and high-heeled boots that clicked sharply on the floor. His hair was pulled into a smooth ponytail, highlighting the confident tilt of his head and the unshakable poise of his presence.
A hush, fleeting but noticeable, rippled through the crowd. Whispers rose among the freshmen.
"He… he actually wears that?" Saphira whispered, eyes wide. "I mean… it suits him, but…"
Edrin could only nod, cheeks faintly pink. "Yeah… impressive," he murmured, voice barely audible.
Riven, however, wasted no time. His gaze roamed over Alex with a teasing, approving smirk. "Well, well, Cupcake," he said, loud enough for nearby freshmen to hear, "look at you… sexy. Definitely stealing the spotlight tonight." He leaned in, voice low, adding with playful drama, "I might just have to dance with you myself."
Alex's smirk responded naturally, unfazed. "You'll have to ask properly," he replied, voice calm but teasing.
At that, Riven extended a hand with exaggerated flair. "May I have this dance, Cupcake?"
Alex placed his hand in Riven's, stepping close. Their movements synced almost instinctively, flowing with the music. Riven's other hand rested lightly on Alex's waist, guiding them with confident ease, while Alex's hands settled naturally on Riven's broad shoulders. They swayed smoothly, each step a playful statement.
From the sidelines, Saphira and Edrin exchanged awe-filled glances. "He… moves like that?" Saphira whispered. "And he's not even self-conscious."
Edrin's eyes followed every step, impressed. "Yeah… confident, stylish… magnetic," he admitted.
Upperclassmen leaned casually against pillars or leaned on the walls, some smirking, others nodding in quiet appreciation. "Interesting choice of attire," one commented to a companion. "Bold, but he owns it."
Freshmen nearby whispered and nudged each other. "Look at him… he's commanding the floor," one murmured, nodding toward Alex.
Even the Crown Prince, standing with a small group at the back, allowed his gaze to linger on the duo for a moment longer than necessary. His expression was measured, his curiosity subtle, noting the natural chemistry and confidence without displaying overt emotion.
Riven spun Alex lightly, a dramatic twirl meant to draw attention. Alex laughed quietly, the sound blending effortlessly with the melody.
"You make it look too easy," Alex said softly, teasing in return.
Riven leaned closer, voice playful. "With you, Cupcake? Never easy. Always fun."
Around them, the murmurs, glances, and subtle teasing continued. Some laughed quietly, some whispered admiration, while others—upperclassmen included—exchanged approving looks. In that space, for a brief moment, social hierarchies faded. Nobles, commoners, and even the Crown Prince observed, but Alex and Riven remained the focal point, their playful energy impossible to ignore.