Wyatt stepped away from Rogue, a playful smile tugging at the corners of his lips as he approached the rest of his friends.
The group gathered in the lavishly decorated hall was an eclectic mix of personalities, consisting of Scott, with his ever-steadfast demeanor; Jean, radiating confidence and warmth; and Jubilation and Samuel, who had recently joined the main X-Men team and brought an infectious energy to the group.
Everyone was dressed to impress, the young women in stunning gowns that sparkled under the soft glow of chandeliers, while the young men showcased sharp suits that accentuated their strong features. With Wyatt now in the mix, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement as they engaged in light-hearted banter, laughter bubbling up as they shared anecdotes and stories.
During that time, Kurt's girlfriend, Amanda, arrived, and Kurt introduced her to Wyatt. As they chatted, Wyatt couldn't help but marvel with his Mystic Eyes at the sheer magical potential she had within her.
I guess Wanda really isn't coming. Wyatt thought as he looked around the common room with a small amount of disappointment. Raising a hand, he created a beautiful corsage to give Kitty.
"Ah, there she is," Jean said with a warm smile, her voice cutting through the chatter in the room as everyone turned to look toward the hall behind them.
Wyatt couldn't help but feel his cheeks flush as the sight of Kitty captured his attention.
She stood at the entrance, radiant in a brilliant yellow ball gown adorned with delicate ruffles that cascaded elegantly around her. The fabric shimmered under the dim light, capturing the atmosphere of the evening with its vibrant hue. Complementing her gown, she wore a stunning pair of high-heeled shoes that sparkled with each step she took, accentuating her grace.
Kitty's hair, usually pulled back in a casual ponytail, was transformed into a sophisticated chignon that framed her face beautifully. Soft tendrils fell artfully around her neck, adding a touch of romance to her polished look. The transformation made her appear both timeless and captivating, resulting in Wyatt being unable to look away.
"Dude, wake up," Evan chuckled, giving Wyatt a gentle shove to rouse him. "Go get her," he urged, his voice filled with playful encouragement. Scott, Samuel, and Kurt joined in, nodding with enthusiastic grins, while Jean, Jubilation, Amanda, and a hesitant Rogue watched with smiling faces, waving him off as if sending him into battle.
Wyatt took a deep breath to calm his nerves and walked over to Kitty, his palms clammy with nervous anticipation. As he approached, he couldn't help but notice the way her eyes sparkled with surprise, her cheeks flushing a deep crimson at the sight of him.
"You look gorgeous," Wyatt said, his voice slightly shaky as he extended the delicate corsage toward her, feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety. "I wasn't sure if this was something I had to give you for the event, but I hope you like it," he added, a hint of vulnerability showing in his expression.
Why is this more nerve-racking than fighting crime? Wyatt thought.
Kitty's face lit up with a warm smile as she accepted the corsage, the flowers soft against her fingers. "Thank you, Wyatt. You look handsome as well," she replied, her voice bright and genuine as she turned her attention to the corsage. "I love it." Her smile was radiant, making Wyatt's nervousness melt away as they stood together, the world around them fading into the background.
Wyatt extended his arm with a charming smile. "Shall we?" he asked, his voice smooth and inviting.
"Yes," Kitty replied, her heart fluttering as she took hold of his arm. Her fingers wrapped around his toned bicep, feeling the warmth and strength beneath her touch, making her pulse quicken with excitement.
"Come on, you heard them. Let's get moving," Scott urged, his voice carrying an air of enthusiasm as he confidently strode ahead with Jean at his arm.
••o••o••o••
The grand event building of Xavier's School for the Gifted was transformed into a stunning winter wonderland for the much-anticipated Winter Ball.
Twinkling fairy lights sparkled from the high ceilings, their warm glow casting enchanting patterns, mirrored in freshly fallen snow's glistening surface. Delicate icicle decorations hung gracefully from every corner, glimmering like precious crystals in the soft light.
Billowing white drapes fluttered gently in the cool air, adding a touch of elegance and creating an inviting atmosphere that felt like stepping into a luxurious winter gala. The scent of pine and cinnamon filled the air, rounding out the enchanting ambiance of the evening.
As guests arrived, the sound of laughter and cheerful conversations filled the air, blending with the melodious strains of a string quartet, which played softly in the background. A large, intricately decorated ice sculpture of a phoenix took center stage, its fiery form captured beautifully in crystal clear ice, glimmering like diamonds under the light.
The attendees were an awe-inspiring sight, dressed in exquisite formal wear that showcased their unique styles.
The women wore gowns in shades of icy blue, deep emerald, and crimson red, adorned with sparkling sequins and pearls that shimmered like stars against the backdrop of the night. Some opted for long sleeves and velvet fabrics, while others chose fitted bodices with flowing skirts that swayed gracefully with every step.
The men, in contrast, donned tailored suits in classic black or navy, with hints of colors peeking through their crisp white shirts and vibrant ties or bowties that added a splash of personality to their elegant ensembles.
A grand staircase spiraled down from the upper level, adorned with lush garlands of evergreen and frosted branches that evoked the spirit of the season. As guests descended, their eyes lit up with wonder at the enchanting scene before them.
A large table laden with decadent treats beckoned at one end of the hall, featuring an array of decadent chocolate fondue, assorted pastries dusted with powdered sugar, and a cascading display of fresh fruits glimmering like jewels. Hot cocoa and mulled wine flowed freely, filling the room with comforting aromas that mingled with the smell of pine and cinnamon.
At the heart of the elegantly decorated room, a stunning array of ice sculptures captivated the eye, serving as the space's focal point. Each intricate sculpture embodied various winter season themes, showcasing classic designs that evoked a sense of wonder and nostalgia.
Among the dazzling creations stood a majestic reindeer, its antlers poised gracefully, and the glint of light illuminating the delicate frost patterns that adorned its body. Nearby, a large, intricately carved snowflake sparkled like a jewel, its crystalline edges reflecting a spectrum of colors as they caught the light.
These masterpieces were crafted by Bobby, whose remarkable talent with his abilities had brought these visions to life. Each piece was a testament to his artistic ability and his passion for capturing the enchanting beauty of winter, transforming the room into a magical winter wonderland that left all who entered in awe.
An elegant dance floor awaited in one corner, polished wood glimmering under the soft lighting, inviting couples to glide across it in a swirl of motion. As the string quartet shifted into a waltz, an air of anticipation surged through the crowd, and partners took to the floor with an effortless grace.
••o••o••o••
As guests flocked to the main entrance of the grand ballroom, Charles Xavier sat elegantly alongside Ororo and Hank, who warmly welcomed the arriving crowds.
"Welcome, everyone! Please, enjoy yourselves tonight," Charles called out to a cluster of affluent donors whose eyes widened in awe at the opulent decorations surrounding them.
"Please, try the hot chocolate. It's absolutely delicious," Hank said with a chuckle at a few passing guests, who eyed him with wonder.
"My, what an extraordinary display," remarked a large man in an impeccably tailored three-piece white suit as he stepped into the room.
The air thickened with tension as Wilson Fisk and his wife, Vanessa, surveyed the lavish venue, an unnerving grin plastered on Fisk's face.
"Indeed! I've never laid eyes on such magnificent ice sculptures before," Vanessa said, her voice a mix of admiration as she gazed at Bobby's intricate artistry, each delicate detail catching the eerie glow of the dimmed lights.
"...Fisk," Logan growled, his tone low and dangerous as he emerged from the shadows, his imposing figure radiating hostility. He squared his shoulders, fists clenched, an instinctual tension coiling within him. "What are you doing here?"
"Me? Isn't it obvious? I'm here to extend my support to your kind," Fisk replied, his voice smooth as silk, but the warning undertones hung heavily in the air. Camera flashes erupted around them, momentarily illuminating their faces, revealing the conflict brewing beneath the surface. "I also come as a hopeful donor to this extraordinary institution."
Logan's brow furrowed deeper, a primal growl reverberating from his throat, but a steadying hand from Hank braced against the tension.
"Logan, if he claims to be here for the cause, then there's no cause for alarm," Hank said with a disarming smile, masking the tension pooling between them. "Please, Mr. Fisk. Enjoy the evening. I'll be readily available should you need anything," he added, though the unease in his voice contradicted his words.
"How accommodating," Fisk replied, a mocking smile creeping across his face, masking his true intentions as he smoothly glided away.
He and Vanessa were engulfed almost instantly by a throng of eager guests, each hoping to gain favor with the Kingpin of Crime, oblivious to the storm brewing just beyond their reach. The air crackled with unspoken tension, setting the stage for a confrontation that hovered on the edge of inevitability.
Charles moved closer to Logan, thoughtful concern etched on his face. "But why would Wilson Fisk attend? Surely our initiative wouldn't pique his interest."
"He's not here for us… He's after the kid," Logan replied, his tone serious. "Word on the street is that he's been searching for Atomic for several months. But that kid moves too quickly to catch. Given how Atomic has supported mutants in front of the world, this event is Fisk's best chance to meet Atomic. Unfortunately, Big Red isn't the one who will be showing up."
"What possible interest could Fisk have in Wyatt?" Ororo whispered, a flicker of worry crossing her features.
"Isn't it obvious?" Logan remarked, his voice laced with a mixture of concern and frustration. He glanced toward the lively dance floor, where the bright lights flickered above and music filled the air with a vibrant energy.
His gaze fell on Wyatt, who was effortlessly twirling Kitty in a graceful waltz. They glided across the polished wooden floor, their expressions filled with joy and laughter, utterly oblivious to the looming threat that hung over them like a dark cloud.
"If Fisk had someone like Atomic on his side... nothing could stop him."
••o••o••o••
The grand ballroom was alive with soft chatter, and the soft glow of crystal chandeliers cast a warm light over the polished floor. Wyatt and Kitty stood at the edge, their eyes locked in a moment of shared excitement. As the music began to swell, a waltz floated through the air, inviting them to dance.
Wyatt extended his hand with a gentle smile, and Kitty took it, her heart fluttering with anticipation.
They stepped onto the dance floor, the world outside fading away as they swayed to the rhythm of the strings. Wyatt's grip was firm yet tender, guiding Kitty effortlessly as they twirled among the other couples, each movement more graceful than the last.
Kitty felt as if they were floating, the fabric of her gown swirling around her like a cloud, while Wyatt's confident presence gave her a sense of security. He spun her under his arm, and she laughed, the sound ringing like delicate bells in his ears. They shared fleeting glances filled with joy and a hint of something deeper with every turn.
The music wrapped around them like a warm embrace, and for those few moments, they were lost in their own world, a perfect harmony of two souls dancing in sync. The night was theirs, and as the final notes lingered in the air, they knew they had created a memory that would last far beyond the ball.
"Phew, let's take a break, yeah?" Kitty asked as she used a napkin to wipe a bead of sweat off her face.
"Sure thing. I'll go grab us some drinks," Wyatt said. Kitty nodded in response, a spark of excitement in her eyes, and made her way over to the dimly lit table reserved for their group.
Settling into her chair, she found herself nestled beside Jean and Rogue, where the three dove into animated chatter about the night's unfolding events.
Approaching the refreshments bar, Wyatt's steps faltered as he spotted a waiter approaching a small puddle of spilled dessert.
The waiter expertly balanced a tray of fresh drinks, but disaster struck just as Wyatt opened his mouth to call out a warning. The waiter's foot slipped, sending the tray soaring through the air like a flurry of glass and liquid, aimed toward an unsuspecting short-haired blonde woman engrossed in her lively conversation.
Instinct kicked in. Wyatt lunged forward with an empty punch bowl in hand. With a calculated swing, the bowl cupped the flying drinks and fragile glass, intercepting them midair and saving the woman from an imminent explosion of sticky punch and shattered glass.
Relief washed over him as he landed the makeshift catch, averting a potential disaster from ruining the woman's night. A small wave of clapping enveloped him as those who had witnessed his actions were left impressed by his moves.
"That was quite unnecessary. But I appreciate the gesture nonetheless," the blonde woman said coolly, her voice carrying a hint of amusement and poise.
Her short, platinum-blond hair swayed lightly in the air, catching the light just right, while her expensive diamond earrings sparkled like stars against the backdrop of the lavish gala.
Wyatt stared at her, confusion etched across his features as he realized he had failed to catch a large glob of champagne, which now hovered in midair before her, suspended as if by magic or some other force. The woman raised a delicate hand, her manicured fingers emitting an aura of effortless grace as she guided the glob into the bowl in Wyatt's hand.
"Telekinesis," Wyatt muttered under his breath, the words slipping out in disbelief. The woman's blue lips curled into a sultry smile, her amusement evident in her eyes, which glimmered with an otherworldly charm.
"Correct. And what is your name, young man?" Her voice wove a playful charm through the air, a melodic blend of curiosity and flirtation.
The woman stood with an air of confidence, one hand resting on her shapely hip, the other lightly brushing the edges of her extravagant gown.
The white Portia and Scarlett Couture gown clung to her figure like a delicate second skin, every curve highlighted with both elegance and a hint of audacity. The intricate lace details shimmered subtly under the soft light, reflecting her vibrant personality and leaving a lasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to gaze upon her.
"Uh, I'm Wyatt," he stammered, momentarily taken aback by her sheer beauty, which seemed almost ethereal amidst the crowd of ordinary party-goers.
"Emma Frost. A pleasure," she replied, her smile widening.