The sun was dipping behind the golden towers of Zenith Academy as Ethan Williams and Alden von Crestvale stood outside the Phoenix Spire.
The skies shimmered with hues of violet and gold. Lanterns floated midair, casting soft glows, and elegant music from inside the ballroom echoed faintly through the grand open archways.
Ethan checked the time on his Watch—6:30 PM. The ball had started thirty minutes ago.
Alden let out an exaggerated sigh, running a hand through his perfectly styled hair.
"Dude, how long are these chicks gonna take? Looks like we're gonna be the last to enter."
Ethan chuckled, adjusting the cuff of his tailored midnight-blue tuxedo with silver embroideries.
"You know how girls are, don't complain and just shut up."
Alden rolled his eyes but smirked.
Ethan tilted his chin, nodding toward the pathway.
"Hey, look. Some people are still coming out of the boys' dorm."
Alden turned, then suddenly grinned like a predator spotting prey.
