Snowbound Flames

Chapter 20: Preparations For The Dance

The day before the Founder's Festival was nothing short of chaotic, yet exhilarating. Tempest was alive with energy, everyone working tirelessly to prepare for the grand celebration that would mark a significant milestone for the city. With the event just hours away, Rimuru had decided to take a brief respite from the endless pile of paperwork and go out for some much-needed shopping. But this wasn't just any shopping trip—this was for the upcoming ballroom dance, a key part of the festival, and everyone was excited about it.

Rimuru stood at the entrance of one of the most luxurious clothing stores in Tempest, a vast space filled with racks of elegant dresses, finely tailored suits, and accessories of all kinds. Guy, who had been her ever-present companion during the preparation of the festival, stood at her side, his calm and composed demeanor a stark contrast to the bustling energy of the store.

"I have to admit," Rimuru mused as she glanced around, "I wasn't expecting shopping for a ball to be this much work."

Guy gave a subtle smile. "It's all for the experience. Every detail matters. Besides, it's part of the fun, isn't it?"

Before Rimuru could respond, the door opened, and a burst of energy entered the store. Milim, her small frame somehow filling the entire space, practically bounced in with excitement. Ramiris hovered just behind her, flitting through the air with her usual carefree attitude. Diablo entered last, his dark attire standing out against the bright colors of the store.

"We're going to have so much fun!" Milim exclaimed, her voice echoing through the store. "I can't wait to see what everyone's going to wear! This is going to be the best dance ever!"

Rimuru's eyes softened as she looked at Milim. "You really are excited about this, aren't you?"

Milim gave her a bright smile, her wings fluttering behind her. "Of course! A ball means pretty dresses and food! And dancing, lots of dancing! It's going to be amazing!"

"Indeed," Ramiris chimed in, her tiny form hovering next to Milim. "We must make sure we look our best. After all, it is Rimuru's special day, isn't it?"

Rimuru gave a modest smile. "It's not just my day, Ramiris. It's a celebration for everyone. But I appreciate the sentiment."

Diablo, who had been standing quietly in the back, finally spoke, his voice smooth and rich. "Shall we begin? There are many things to prepare, and time is not on our side."

"Right," Rimuru agreed, adjusting her posture. "Let's get started."

The group began to move through the store, browsing through racks of elegant gowns and suits. Rimuru found herself oddly enchanted by the process—picking out fabrics, discussing colors, and imagining how everything would come together. Despite her usual focus on business, there was something soothing about shopping for the dance. Perhaps it was the feeling of joy and excitement in the air, or maybe it was the chance to let her guard down and enjoy something a little more frivolous.

As they wandered through the store, the subordinates took turns picking out various outfits. Milim, as expected, was all over the place, pulling out dresses and costumes that were far too over-the-top for the occasion but were met with laughter and nods of approval from her. Ramiris was just as eccentric, holding up different gowns to herself, occasionally flitting around in an exaggerated fashion to demonstrate how each one looked.

"Rimuru!" Milim called, holding up a dress that was too sparkly to be real. "What do you think of this one? It's perfect, right?"

Rimuru gave her a bemused look. "I'm not sure that's quite the right style, Milim."

"Oh, come on!" Milim insisted, twirling around. "You know I'll stand out in this one!"

Rimuru chuckled. "You certainly will, that's for sure."