The Montclair family arrives at the royal ball, held in a grand palace filled with glittering chandeliers and lavish decorations. The atmosphere is lively, with nobles and dignitaries mingling in elegant attire. Leon, dressed in a deep blue suit that accentuates his slim figure and turquoise eyes, feels slightly out of place. He's never liked social events due to his frail health and lack of stamina, but his family insisted on his presence.
Bjorn escorts Leon into the ballroom, drawing attention from the crowd. Many of the guests are aware of the Montclairs' "blessed" family, and whispers circulate about Leon's recent improvement in health. Leon does his best to appear composed, though he feels overwhelmed by the attention.
As he scans the crowd, Leon's eyes land on Atlas, who stands near the center of the room in a black and gold suit that fits him like a second skin. The young duke looks effortlessly regal, with his dark hair swept back and an air of quiet confidence. When Atlas meets Leon's gaze, there's an unspoken acknowledgment between them, an invisible thread pulling them closer.
The ball progresses, and Leon finds himself constantly interrupted by other nobles trying to court him or ask him for a dance. He endures the attention politely, though he can't help but seek out Atlas's face across the room. At last, when he finds a moment of respite near a refreshment table, Atlas appears at his side as if summoned by his thoughts.
"You look like you're in need of rescuing," Atlas murmurs, his voice a low, pleasant rumble. "Would you care to dance, young master?"
Without waiting for a reply, Atlas extends his hand, and Leon takes it. The contact sends a subtle electric jolt up Leon's arm, the same feeling he experienced at the temple, but stronger.