Chapter: 96 Dance

(Chapter 96 Dance)

The moment Tempest caught sight of Furina entering the ballroom, his heart fluttered with a wave of relief. Without wasting a second, he made his way through the crowd, determined to greet her.

"My Lad-"

"Your Grace!"

A voice interrupted, halting him in his tracks.

A noble guest, eager to make an introduction, stepped forward with a polite yet insistent tone. "

It's an honor to finally meet you, Your Grace."

The man said, bowing slightly.

"And may I extend my heartfelt wishes for a joyous birthday. Would you grant me the honor of introducing you to my daughter?"

With a proud smile, he gently nudged his daughter forward, who curtsied shyly before Tempest.

"Good evening, and happy birthday, Your Grace, I'm-

"Yes, yes, nice to meet you as well, mademoiselle, please excuse me."

Tempest interrupted, barely glancing her way as he swiftly moved past, his focus still set on Furina.

"Ah, Your Grace!"

The noble called after him, clearly surprised by the sudden brush-off, his daughter left standing awkwardly beside him as they both watched Tempest walk away, disappearing into the crowd.

"Everyone! The annual dance will begin shortly! Please clear the center of the room!"

Falric's voice echoed throughout the ballroom.

Tempest's heart skipped a beat as he heard the announcement, his pulse quickening.

'This is my chance...'

He thought, his chest tightening with both nerves and excitement. His gaze locked onto Furina, who stood elegantly amidst the crowd, her radiant presence drawing attention from all around. Finally, he had the perfect opportunity to approach her, his chance to ask her for the first dance, something he'd been waiting for all night.

With renewed determination, Tempest made his way toward her, weaving through the guests, all the while silently willing his courage to hold.

"Your Grace!"

Before Tempest could take another step toward Furina, a group of young noblewomen swarmed around him, their gowns fluttering as they closed in like a colorful, determined flock. Each of them had the same goal in mind—to ask the Duke of Stormwind for the honor of the first dance.

Tempest's smile remained polite, but inwardly, he sighed. This wasn't the interruption he needed, not now. Still, he couldn't afford to be rude to them.

One by one, the ladies approached, their eyes sparkling with excitement, their voices full of hopeful charm.

"Would you care to dance, Your Grace?"

"My Duke, it would be an honor if you'd take the floor with me."

"Please, allow me the first dance of the evening."

It would be an honor to share the floor with you, Duke Tempest."

Tempest smiled politely, though inwardly his focus remained on Furina. He offered a courteous nod to the group, but his mind raced for a way to excuse himself and still seize the moment he'd been waiting for.

"Ladies, I-"

Before Tempest could finish his sentence, Rohan appeared at his side, leaning in as if to whisper something urgent into his ear. Despite saying nothing at all, Rohan's gesture was perfectly timed.

"I see."

Tempest said, pretending to digest the 'news.'

"My sincerest apologies, ladies, but it seems my attention is required elsewhere."

The group of young women looked slightly disappointed but curtsied politely. Tempest offered them a courteous nod before turning away. As he stepped away, he caught Rohan's eye and gave him a subtle nod of thanks for the clever rescue.

With a clear path once again, Tempest's focus returned to Furina.

When Tempest finally caught sight of Furina, he noticed she was surrounded by a throng of guests, all vying for her attention. Just as he had experienced earlier, they were eagerly asking her for a dance, each one attempting to outdo the others with charming words and flattering smiles. Despite her poise and grace, Tempest could see the flicker of impatience in her eyes, hinting at her desire to break free from the crowd and find a moment of reprieve. The sight only fueled his determination to reach her and claim the dance he had been longing for.

"Your Grace."

The crowd murmured, parting respectfully as Tempest made his way toward Furina, each guest offering slight bows in acknowledgment of his presence.

With a gentle yet confident demeanor, Tempest bowed slightly, extending his hand toward Furina with a charming smile.

"My Lady, would you do me the honor of sharing the dance floor with me tonight?"

He said, his voice smooth and inviting. His heart raced as he awaited her response, the atmosphere around them buzzing with excitement and anticipation.

Furina beamed at him, her eyes sparkling with delight as she gracefully accepted his hand.

"Why of course, my good sir."

She replied, her voice melodic and playful, carrying an air of elegance that captivated those around them.

As she took his hand, Tempest felt a rush of warmth and anticipation. Her presence lit up the ballroom, and he couldn't help but notice the subtle sway of her dress, adding to the enchanting atmosphere of the night. Together, they stepped onto the dance floor, surrounded by the buzz of conversation and laughter, ready to create a memory that would linger long after the celebration had ended.

'So beautiful...'

Tempest thought to himself, captivated by her presence as the music began to swell around them. The enchanting melodies filled the air, prompting guests to gracefully take to the dance floor with their partners, creating a lively tapestry of movement and color.

"Keep up."

Furina said with a teasing smirk, her eyes glinting playfully.

As the waltz began, Furina and Tempest moved in perfect harmony, their bodies gliding effortlessly across the floor. The soft strains of the music enveloped them, creating a magical atmosphere where time felt suspended. Tempest's eyes locked onto Furina's, and in that moment, it was as if the rest of the world had melted away into a blur of colors and sounds.

With each graceful turn, they drew the gaze of the crowd, who paused their own revelry to witness the enchanting scene unfolding before them. The elegant swirl of Furina's dress and the confident posture of Tempest, as he led the dance, captured the attention of all present. Whispers filled the air, and admirers exchanged awed glances, marveling at the chemistry between the Duke of Stormwind and the captivating Lady of Justice.

Tempest could feel the warmth of her gaze as she smiled, a radiant expression that seemed to illuminate the entire ballroom. He twirled her with a flourish, the fabric of her gown billowing around her like a blooming flower, while his heart raced with excitement.

"I didn't know you were a good dancer, Tempest."

Furina said to him with a slight smirk.

"Kinda was forced to learn, My Lady."

Tempest said with a slight chuckle.

"Well, was it worth it?"

Furina as him.

"It was."

With each turn and step, the rhythm of the waltz guided them, weaving their movements into a tapestry of elegance and grace. As they spun across the floor, Tempest felt as if they were the only two people in existence, lost in a moment of pure joy. The laughter and chatter of the guests faded into the background, leaving only the sweet melody of the music and the intoxicating connection shared between them.

"Let the world watch."

She murmured with a playful smile, her voice barely audible above the music.

"They should know what it means to dance."

Tempest couldn't help but smile back, his confidence bolstered by her words. With each turn, they painted a picture of elegance and grace.

Hatsume, lounging comfortably beside Faruzan, observed the grand scene unfolding on the dance floor with a slight smirk. Her hand rested lazily against her cheek as she turned her gaze toward her companion, mischief twinkling in her eyes.

"Shall we dance too?"

She asked teasingly, nudging Faruzan's arm with playful insistence.

Faruzan, however, was entirely uninterested. With her mouth full of cake, she shot a sidelong glance at Hatsume and shrugged, clearly unbothered by the elegance happening around her.

"I'm going to eat cake. Awmp."

She mumbled, the word muffled as she took another large bite, savoring the sweet dessert with all the focus of someone enjoying their own little moment of indulgence.

Hatsume raised an eyebrow and chuckled softly.

"Of course, you would."

As the final, sweeping notes of the waltz faded into the air, Tempest and Furina moved with practiced elegance, their footsteps light and fluid, gliding across the ballroom floor as though they had rehearsed this dance for years. The shimmering light from the grand chandelier overhead caught the fabric of Furina's gown, casting delicate patterns across the floor as she and Tempest made one final, graceful spin.

Their movements slowed, perfectly synchronized as the music reached its final cadence. Together, they dipped into a formal bow, Furina holding the edges of her gown as she curtsied elegantly, while Tempest bowed low, the crowd erupting in applause. All eyes were on the Duke of Stormwind and the Hydro Archon, who had captivated them with their performance. For a moment, time seemed to stand still, the world narrowed to just the two of them, as if they had commanded the very flow of the evening.

The applause faded, and as Tempest rose from his bow, Furina turned toward him with a soft, genuine smile that seemed to light up her entire face. The regal and playful demeanor she usually displayed was softened, revealing a more personal, almost tender side.

"Happy birthday, Tempest Proudmoore."

She said, her voice soft but carrying a warmth that reached beyond the formalities of the event. There was a sincerity in her tone that took Tempest by surprise, a sentiment that seemed to hold more meaning than just well wishes for his special day.

Tempest, still recovering from the overwhelming atmosphere and the intensity of their dance, found himself momentarily speechless. He had spent much of the night searching for her, hoping for just this moment, and now that it had come, the weight of it settled over him like a welcome embrace. He stood tall, his heart racing, not from the exertion of the waltz, but from the realization of the significance behind Furina's words.

"Thank you, my Lady. Having you here tonight... it means more than I can express."

He replied, his voice steady despite the swirl of emotions beneath the surface.

"Well, it wouldn't be a proper celebration without me making an appearance, now would it?"

Furina said, regaining a touch of her usual playful charm.

Tempest chuckled softly, the tension of the evening finally releasing in a moment of shared laughter.

"Of course not, my Lady, and I must say, you've made this night far grander than I could have ever hoped."

Tempest replied his tone full of gratitude.

"Yes, yes, that's enough waltzing around, everyone! Back to the dance floor you go, it's time to show off those moves! Remember, the night is still young, so let's dance and make some memories, ehe!"

The lively interruption came from none other than the bard himself, Venti, perched on a nearby ledge with a violin in hand. Furina and Tempest both turned to see him poised and ready to begin his next performance. His playful energy was infectious as he brought the violin to his chin, a mischievous grin on his face.

Without hesitation, Venti launched into a dazzling, fast-paced piece that sent a wave of awe through the ballroom. It was "Virus," one of the most challenging compositions known across Fontaine, a piece so intricate and swift that even seasoned musicians dared not attempt it lightly. But in Venti's hands, the violin came alive, filling the entire hall with a sound that was so rich and layered, that it felt like an entire orchestra was performing.

The crowd erupted into cheers as the music picked up pace, the previous formalities of the waltz quickly giving way to the vibrant pulse of Venti's untamed genius. It was impossible to stand still with music like this flowing through the air; the guests were already pairing off again, their feet moving instinctively to the infectious rhythm.

"Ready for round two?"

He asked, his voice full of energy as he extended his hand once more.

Furina returned his grin, her regal demeanor giving way to a playful gleam in her eyes.

"You think you can keep up?"

She teased, placing her hand in his.

Tempest laughed softly.

"I'll give it my all, My Lady."

The two took to the center of the floor again, but this time the atmosphere was completely different. No longer the slow, deliberate steps of a waltz, they now faced a whirlwind of sound, their feet moving in sync with the frenetic tempo of Venti's violin. The fast, sharp turns and sudden dips of the dance reflected the energy of the music, and soon the entire ballroom was moving in time to the bard's masterpiece.

Around them, other couples joined in, but none could match the sheer elegance and chemistry of the Duke and the Hydro Archon. They moved as if the music had been written for them, their every step fluid and effortless despite the complexity of the rhythm. The crowd couldn't take their eyes off them, marveling at the seamless connection between the two.

"Clorinde! Let's join too!"

Navia exclaimed, her enthusiasm infectious as she grabbed Clorinde's hand, pulling her eagerly toward the vibrant dance floor.

"Wait, Navia, I-"

Clorinde began, but her protests were drowned out by the excitement swirling around them. Navia's energy was hard to resist, and soon enough, they found themselves amidst the throng of whirling couples.

"Hey! That's my wife!"

A noble shouted, clearly displeased as he caught sight of his partner dancing joyously with Constantine. The noble's face flushed with indignation, realizing the carefree spirit of the night had led to a mix-up in partners.

Unbeknownst to him, Constantine was blissfully unaware of the chaos unfolding. He had grabbed a random woman from the crowd, a bright smile on his face as he spun her around, completely oblivious to the fact that she was the very noble's wife he had inadvertently claimed for the dance.

Venti, never one to be outdone, seemed to play faster and faster, pushing the limits of the piece as if testing just how far the dancers could go. And yet, neither Tempest nor Furina faltered. The harder the music pressed, the more they seemed to rise to the challenge, their movements a blur of grace and precision.

"Feeling tired, Tempest?"

Furina teased him with a smirk.

"Not the slightest, My Lady!"

Tempest replied as he kept up with Furina.

"Hah! Don't me down now!"

Furina spun in Tempest's arms, her gown swirling like water in a storm, her laughter bubbling up as she challenged him with her every step. Tempest, determined not to be outdone, met her pace stride for stride, guiding her with confident ease through the intricate patterns of the dance.

As the music reached its dramatic crescendo, the entire room seemed to hold its breath. Venti's fingers flew across the strings, and in that final moment, Tempest dipped Furina low, the two of them perfectly in sync as the last note rang out, echoing through the hall.

The applause that followed was deafening. Furina, still catching her breath, looked up at Tempest with a glimmer of admiration in her eyes.

"Impressive, Tempest, I didn't think you'd keep up."

She said with a smirk.

Tempest grinned, pulling her back to her feet with a flourish.

"I had good motivation."

With a final laugh, they both turned toward the crowd, bowing once again to the roaring applause.

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On the balcony, Tempest settled into a chair beside a small, elegantly set table, the moonlight casting a soft glow across his features. Below, the lively sounds of the party floated up to him, laughter, music, and the gentle clinking of glasses creating a vibrant symphony of celebration. Yet, despite the joyful atmosphere, a sense of solitude enveloped him as he gazed out into the night.

In front of him sat a delicate plate of cake, its rich frosting glistening in the moonlight, a small token of the festivities he had momentarily stepped away from. He had come to this quiet spot to gather his thoughts, but more importantly, he was waiting for someone, someone special whose presence would make the night feel complete.

"Oh my, first it was the Dendro Archon sitting alone, and now it seems even the Duke himself has chosen solitude."

Venti remarked playfully as he gracefully landed on the railing of the balcony. His playful tone was accompanied by a twinkle in his eye.

"You, you're the bard who played 'Virus' earlier. Who are you? It's clear you aren't just a mere mortal just from the aura you're emanating."

Tempest inquired, curiosity evident in his tone.

"Caught red-handed, am I? But fear not, I'm merely passing through, like the wind."

Venti replied, a playful grin spreading across his face. He leaned back against the railing, his demeanor relaxed and carefree.

"You see, I wander wherever the melodies take me, weaving through celebrations and gatherings. Just as the wind carries whispers of secrets, I carry tunes that linger in the hearts of those who listen. Tonight, I happen to be captivated by your magnificent soirée."

"I also brought your friend along!"

Venti exclaimed, his eyes widening with mischief.

As if on cue, his gaze shifted, and for a brief moment, his irises transformed into a vibrant green reminiscent of Nahida's hue.

"Young Pasha?"

Tempest said, his interest piqued.

"Sorry, Tempest, but he convinced me to come along."

Nahida said, her voice carrying through Venti's mouth, creating an intriguing blend of personalities.

"I borrowed his eyes to observe the party, but I promise I didn't read any minds. Right, Barbatos? Wait, forget the last part!"

Tempest's eyes widened in surprise as the revelation slipped through her lips, the weight of Venti's true identity hanging in the air. The playful facade that Venti usually wore faltered for a split second, a hint of surprise flickering across his features.

"Ah, you know how it is."

Venti said, trying to regain his composure, but Tempest could sense the underlying excitement in the air.

The winds of fate are ever-changing, and it seems they've blown a little truth your way. But don't let that worry you! We're all friends here, right?"

"As long as you don't cause any trouble, you're welcome to stay in Fontaine."

Tempest replied his tone calm yet carrying an underlying authority. He leaned back in his seat, folding his arms as he regarded Venti with a measured gaze.

"I've had enough surprises for one night, and the last thing I need is the Anemo Archon stirring up mischief."

Venti chuckled, leaping down from the balcony rail with his characteristic lightness.

"Who, me? Cause trouble? Perish the thought!"

He grinned, his eyes sparkling with mischief nonetheless.

"But I must say, Fontaine has a charm all its own. I wouldn't dream of ruining it. You have my word, Duke."

Tempest gave a small nod, though his sharp eyes remained wary.

"Good. Because Fontaine is in a delicate balance, and I won't let anything or anyone disrupt it."

Venti raised his hands in mock surrender.

"Understood, understood! I'll be on my best behavior, I promise."

He winked, his usual carefree attitude returning, but there was a sense of sincerity behind his words.

Tempest gave a small sigh and turned his gaze back to the moonlit sky.

"Let's hope so."

*Knock knock*

"Tempest?"

Furina's voice called softly from outside the door.

Tempest, still seated on the balcony, straightened up slightly.

"Leave, now- Mm?"

But Venti was already gone as if he had never been there. All that remained was a single bottle of dandelion wine on the table beside the plate of cake. A faint breeze stirred through the air, carrying with it a soft whisper, playful and distant.

"I hope to see you in Mondstadt one day, Duke."

The words drifted like a fading echo in Tempest's ear, a reminder of the Archon's fleeting presence.

Tempest sighed, rubbing his temple, both amused and exasperated.

"That bard..."

Tempest stood from his seat, smoothing out his attire as he approached the door. With a steady hand, he turned the handle and opened it, revealing Furina standing there, the soft glow of the ballroom lights spilling into the dimly lit corridor.

"My Lady."

Tempest greeted her warmly, a gentle smile gracing his lips as he met her eyes.

Furina's lips curled into a playful smirk as she stepped closer, her teasing tone evident.

"Your Grace~"