Chapter 37 : Town Festival Begins
The town of Windmere had a tradition: once a year, they pretended their lives weren't full of magical mishaps, monster sightings, and economic instability by throwing the biggest festival in the region.
This year's theme? "Harmony and Heritage."
Elias privately suspected it translated to: "Please don't set anything on fire this time."
Rhea, naturally, was thrilled.
"Do we get to throw things?" she asked, already tugging on her too-large cloak and hopping in place with uncontained glee.
Elias glanced at the festival flyer. "There's a ring toss."
"Do the rings explode?"
"No, Rhea."
She crossed her arms, disappointed. "Lame."
The week leading up to the festival turned the sleepy town into a riot of color and chaos.
Ribbons fluttered from rooftops. Vendors hauled in magical snacks that blinked, chirped, or sang when bitten. Every shopkeeper had something new to sell, usually with the words "Limited Edition Festival Deal!" printed in sparkly gold letters.