Chapter 231 Entrance Ceremony Banquet
"Huh? Why the different look? I don't think that was placed inside your closet, was it?" Lyrian inquired, noting the change in Leon's attire.
Leon pushed himself off the wall, a stern expression on his face. "It was. I specifically requested to wear this, instead of..." He scrutinized Lyrian from head to toe, his gaze lingering critically, "That."
Lyrian couldn't help but feel a slight offense at Leon's tone, arching an eyebrow. "What's with the sass?" he retorted.
"This is the formal attire of my culture," Leon explained as the trio started walking through the halls toward the banquet venue, "That," he gestured toward Lyrian's attire, "is the formal attire of the casual noble. I'm not going to associate myself with them in any way, if possible."
Lyrian adopted a nonchalant tone, "I suppose that's true... but I don't see it as that big of a deal."
Leon cast a sideways glance at Lyrian before resuming his forward gaze. "Yeah, well... it's a long story for me. Just know that my family does not like nobles very much. I fall into that category as well. We despise them for what they did. I despise them... every last one," he confessed, a hint of resentment creeping into his voice.
Alten interjected, his voice hesitant with pauses, "Uh... you know... I'm slightly a noble as well. Although a failing one."
Leon couldn't resist a small, mocking smile as he glanced at Alten. "You're not a noble... you're a fool," he quipped, earning a chuckle from Lyrian.
After a short journey, the trio arrived at the main hall of the academy. The hall was expansive and opulent, even more so this afternoon as it was prepared for the upcoming banquet. The grand hall unfolded before them like a vision of opulence and grandeur.
Its walls were a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of artisans, adorned with intricate decorations that narrated tales of the past. Elaborate tapestries hung alongside shimmering gilded reliefs, and ornate murals painted scenes of enchantment and history, all combining to create a feast for the eyes.
Small, spread in their setting, littered the length of the hall. Fine silverware sparkled under the soft illumination of crystal chandeliers that dangled overhead, casting a warm and inviting radiance over the entire expanse. Each place setting was a work of art, meticulously arranged with delicate crystal goblets, polished flatware, and pristine linens.
The atmosphere was electric with anticipation, as students and faculty alike gathered in their most splendid attire. A sea of colors and styles merged and mingled, creating a vibrant tapestry of fashion that rivaled the hall's own decorations. Laughter, chatter, and the clinking of glasses filled the air, weaving a symphony of joy and excitement.
The banquet's culinary offerings were a true sensory delight. Platters of delectable dishes, ranging from succulent meats to vibrant vegetables, were lovingly prepared, their enticing aromas wafting through the hall and enticing the senses. A cornucopia of flavors awaited the guests, promising a culinary journey that would linger in their memories.
In one corner of the hall, a live band played soft, melodic tunes, the music lending an air of sophistication and celebration to the affair. The musicians' harmonious notes blended with the laughter and conversations, creating a captivating backdrop of sound.
As Lyrian, Leon, and Alten made their entrance, they became part of this enchanting spectacle, enveloped in the vibrant tapestry of the banquet—a night filled with the promise of unexpected encounters, revelations, and the unspoken magic of mingling amid the grandeur and elegance of the gathering.
The three quickly found an unattended round table and took their seats around it, looking around as they noticed familiar faces. In one corner of the room, Lyrian noticed Julius, who had a vibrant smile on his face as he talked to another teacher.
He was adorned in a bright yellow suit, one that wasn't too colorful to be overdramatic but just perfect enough to highlight his energetic personality. It was calm, yet eccentric, perfect for his look. Looking at the faces of the people, he noticed many glancing toward him.
He expected this, but along with it, he also saw many similar gazes looking at two other places in the hall, which were separated far across. Upon following the direction of said gazes, Lyrian noticed that they were on the two other MVPs in the room.
'I guess we really are the most valuable persons.' Lyrian thought to himself as he noticed this. He was slightly taken aback as he saw the sheer number of pupils looking at all three kids.
Lyrian took a look at both Godfrey Veridrake and Linus Yuun. Godfrey had a dark green suit on, and Linus, a golden attire instead. At their tables were other kids who seemed to be their friends.
"Hey... mind if we sit at this table?" A somewhat familiar voice suddenly sounded behind Lyrian, who was currently gazing into the crowd. Alten and Leon turned to look at Jackson, whom they quickly recognized from the entrance exam.
"Oh... sure! Go right ahead!" Alten said in a kind gesture. He wasn't some stuck-up bigot who cared who sat with him. After all, he was probably the lowest-status person in the entire hall right now.
"We?" Leon suddenly asked, only seeing Jackson at the moment. As he sat down, however, another familiar face showed itself. By this time, even Lyrian was looking over at who sat at their table.
Of course, he didn't mind either, but it would be a lie to say that he was slightly surprised when he saw Glis Silandra sit down parallel to him. "What? You too? That's a surprise," he slightly chuckled to himself as he spoke.
Glis suddenly blushed with anger and looked in another direction. "Humph! Be quiet, peasant! I am only sitting here because I have nowhere else to sit!" She said, seemingly irritated. "Really? I imagined you to be the popular girl... odd," Lyrian retorted.
He could have sworn seeing her in school with a multitude of friends already built up. Glis didn't answer Lyrian, acting like she was ignoring him. Just then, another voice sounded shortly after Lyrian spoke. "Lyrian Theageld... if I may, would you allow me and my friends to sit at this table?"
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