The Blood's Elegance

Chapter 13

Chapter 13

THERE'S ALWAYS A GAME'S BLUEPRINT.

Everyone was busy when I arrived at our school. They were holding a piece of colorful paper with dark letters on it. Some papers were also attached on the locker doors and walls, and at the end of the hallway, I could see the big poster hanging, announcing the most anticipated events by the freshmen.

Acquaintance Party.

"Hey, welcome to Imperial University! A guy handed me a flyer which I gladly accept to know the information about the upcoming event for our school. Black background. Red font colors. Eerie theme.

October 4.

6:00PM - 10:00PM

Imperial Gymnasium

A smile costs your freedom.

The freshmen were quite thrilled by hearing this news early in the morning. There were murmurs everywhere, filling the corners of the building. I was, as well, excited about what was to happen. It's going to happen a week from now.

Classes still continued as usual, but the professors granted the council a time to give us a very short announcement about the party, saying that going in the hall for this is more hassle because it won't take that much time. The image of the head of the Student Body flashed on the fixed flat screen on the wall, wearing her uniform with her lips pursed into a thin line. She glanced on her side and nodded. There, a big smile rose.

"Good day, everyone! I am your Student Government Association President, Sumika Yuzu Murray. I believed most of you, if not all, have heard about the news of your upcoming acquaintance party. As you can see on the details written down on the flyers, it would be held on the fifth of October, by six in the evening. Now, what will be our theme for this year? Last time, we conducted a costume-themed acquaintance party, and for this year, we are going to spice it up a little. It's a Mysterious Acquaintance Party!" she happily declared. "Wearing anything that contrasts our theme will have a punishment—fake weapons are allowed as part of your costumes, but even your smiles are not allowed." A sinister smile curved on her lips. "No one is allowed to, because a smile will cost your freedom."

She explained other information about our fees and the possible awards.

"Every year, our school conducts an auction that happens during Acquaintance Party. It is called 'Social Auction' where a group of people can be sold for the highest amount offered, and by the 'group of people,' I literally meant groups, as in a team. There will be three to four people in a team, and you will decide the students you will bid, while we will be the one to group them. Maximum of five teams. Because it is a team, we will start the bid at five dollars, so start saving your money. The rules will be announced on the exact day of the event. Any concern or issues shall be addressed on our email. Have a nice day!"

The screen showed our school logo before turning into black. Our professor stood again on the small podium. "Aren't you guys excited?"

Somehow, we were. It's intriguing.

On my way to the second period, I met the president of the organization of our program. Cellyn greeted me. "I hope you will enjoy our booths."

"There will be booths?"

"Of course. It ain't fun, if there ain't one. See you."

The event had been the talk of every crowd in the building. I spotted Seth approaching me after exiting their room.

"Hey. What are your plans?"

"Is there any relevant thing to do other than coming to the party?" I asked.

"Be my date for that party."

"Is it required?"

"Not really." He shrugged. "I want us to come together though."

"I'll think about it," I joked and laughed. "Just kidding. Just come pick me up that night."

I waved my hand to leave as the class is about to start.

Everything passed by like a blur, we did not focus on the other happenings. I found myself on the front porch, holding my black purse and waiting for him to arrive. Seth parked his car and walked to me.

"You always rock your outfit," he said. "Just try to hide your smile, and you'll be alright. Although I love it, you're better fierce today."

I shook my head, but my lips was contradicting my own body action. I was definitely enjoying this kind of compliments especially from this man who had seemed to get me ever since my first arrival on this place. "Stop flirting with me."

"I am not. It's all a natural reaction because you're beautiful."

"As if I'd fall for that."

I spent days thinking what outfit to wear for this night and ended up choosing my black turtle neck long sleeve knit dress and thigh high black boots. My hair was in a messy bun, and I seriously love how good-looking my hairstyle is. It had never been this perfect! Seth, on the other side, had himself on different shades of gray. Gray polo shirt, silver silk tie, a darker shade of gray vest, skinny jeans, and leather shoes. Casual, but looks cool because of his light stubble. The faint yellow light from the post lamps, the orange hue from the setting sun, and the soft touch of the autumn wind were perfect for a date.

He drove us to the university and, luckily, parked near the Imperial Gymnasium where it will be held later. Like a gentleman he was, Seth offered his hand for me to go down. Stage lights set on the sides of the entrance gave pathway for newcomers. A mellow music played inside. We listed our names on the Registration Area before entering the venue. It's fifteen minutes past six o'clock, and the event will start exactly by the strike of seven. We socialized with others before they explain the rules about not smiling during the party. Seth talked with a lot of people. It's no wonder he can easily open up a topic for a good conversation. Ayuna came and instantly hugged him. Her expression, upon seeing me beside the man she likes, was obviously not pleased by the fact. I thought she could ace this party with her bitchy face. It's going to be effortless.

"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. We will now start the Acquaintance Party within five minutes."

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