The festival

by Gael

After several days of waiting and anticipation, the day of the festival had finally arrived. And I must say that Luke’s hard work and preparations had certainly paid off. For the air was rich with both the scent of baked goods and the sound of children’s laughter. As several vendors had already started setting up their stalls at the crack of dawn. Fortunately, the festivities wouldn’t begin until later, giving me some free time to focus on my latest research project.
For the mystery surrounding the identity of both Vincent and Reeva, as well as their connection to me, still weighed heavily on my mind. And I was determined to solve it. The only question was where to begin, as our adventures had offered several leads worth pursuing.

The first of course was their connection to Sylvesse. Meaning that perhaps uncovering more of his past might yield some valuable insights. Another promising lead was the history of Immerglade. After all, queen Titania’s remarks had suggested that Vincent, if not both of them, had some ties to the Queendom. And I must admit that a part of me regretted not asking her directly who he was. But a more considerate part of me knew I had done the right thing, allowing her to savour her final moments with her lover rather than pressing her for answers.

However, both of those paths required extensive knowledge of the Fey, and while I was certain that the Circle of the Rose’s libraries might have some insight, I feared that it would take some time for me to explore all of it. Especially as other options were still open to me.

One such option was the mask Reeva and Sylvesse had left me. Studying its craftsmanship and origins could provide further clues. Yet, the thought was a daunting one. As magical research, whether arcane or divine, was far from my forte. Though perhaps borrowing a few books from Luke’s library could help.

Still, the lead that seemed most promising, and within reach, was certainly investigating the Leper’s Rebellion. As according to Luke and Hayley, the rebellion’s leader wore a mask similar to mine. Which suggested a chance that he either knew Vincent or was Vincent himself. It also offered a direct tie to Keralon, meaning the trail could be easier to follow than the others.

Unfortunately, my plans were swiftly derailed. By none other than Liliana, no less, who had other plans.

A local bard and musical instrument shopkeeper had announced a “Battle of the Bards” during the festival, with a magical instrument as the grand prize. A contest that both Liliana and her brother were dead set on entering. But since two people alone don’t make a band, she sought to recruit a few more members. Specifically, She wanted me to join their old group, the Feyroost Five.

And while flattered, I quickly decided to decline. As while my lyre skills might be passable, they were hardly up to the point of being good enough in order to perform before a large crowd. A thought which admittedly made me feel a bit uneasy.

Now the thing that you need to know about Liliana is that she iron determination. Meaning that once she sets her mind on something, she rarely ever gives up. So disappointed but undeterred, she turned to Dynia. Recruiting her not only for her talents but also her skills at persuasion. And I am not ashamed to admit that when confronted by the combined attention of two beautiful women, I cracked and joined the Feyroost Five.

And thus with our merry band assembled, minus the noticeable absence of Ileas of course, we spent the rest of the morning and early afternoon in practice. And despite our lack of perfect sync, I thought we sounded pretty good. Alistan’s lute and Liliana’s violin respectfully led the melody, which was supported by Dynia’s flute. Thus creating a bright and joyful harmony.

As the festival officially kicked off, we made our way to the central square. Where a large stage had been erected. And where we encountered an unexpected surprise. For when we got there, Gideon, the owner of the Gruffy Griffon, greeted us with a question: “So, who’s giving the opening speech?”

Considering that none of us had really prepared anything, you would be right in thinking that we were a bit panicked over this sudden news. Fortunately, we had not one but two secret weapons for occasions just like this. The noble heirs to the De La Roost family, Lady Liliana and Lord Alistan. With their noble upbringing and grace, they were well-versed in handling such formalities.

With a gentle yet firm nudge from Luke, Alistan stepped forward in order to address the crowd. And despite some initial murmurs of uncertainty, especially regarding the district’s new name, the combination of Alistan’s poised speech and Liliana’s spirited encouragement, quickly won them over. Causing the crowd to erupt into cheers, celebrating the bright future that was ahead of us.

With our official duties complete and some time to spare before the bard battle, we finally had some time to enjoy the festival together.

And I admit that it felt good, no really good, to simply be with my friends for once, while free from either danger, chaos, or impending doom. As the mere sight of Hayley and Alistan savouring various treats prepared by the local food stalls, Dadroz carefully inspecting a supposed piece of Irminsul the World Tree to have it carved into a magical trinket and of course Liliana and Luke debating their perfect ingredients for their own versions of Khan’s Stout ale filled me with a deep, genuine joy. And it also had the pleasant side effect of easing my nerves, if only slightly, concerning the impending bard competition.

But before the day would end, the day would have a few more pleasant surprises.

The first came in the form of a small, hidden Boggle, its eyes fixed longingly on a small cupcake stand. Amused by its childlike innocence, I offered it one. Which the little creature accepted with a grateful smile, promising a small surprise for the festival later that evening in return.

The second was the arrival of Rachnar, the honourable ambassador of Velora Morenthene. Though sadly he did not only come to congratulate us, but also to share troubling news from home. For it seemed that an issue had arisen that he hoped to discuss with us privately. Though thankfully, it wasn’t so urgent that he couldn’t enjoy the festival first and sample some of the local cuisine first. Upon which, he was immediately whisked him away by Hayley in order to tackle the festival’s remaining, unconquered food stalls.

But the greatest surprise came with the arrival of a magnificent black carriage.

From which descended Lady Elsa, moving with her usual regal grace. A sight which immediately caused Luke’s back to straighten and a mischievous glint to flicker in his eyes. The very same one that usually appeared whenever he was either about to hurl a mighty fireball or was in the presence of a beautiful woman that caught his eyes.

But what truly startled us was the second figure emerging from the carriage: none other than His Royal Highness, King Carrolus.

Alistan and Liliana immediately dropped to their knees. A reaction that left the surrounding crowd stunned and a bit pale looking. And upon Alistan’s respectful greeting confirmed the kings identity, much to his mild annoyance, as apparently, the king had hoped for a bit more anonymity this day

Recovering swiftly, King Carrolus calmed the crowd by congratulating us on our efforts to restore the district and presenting us with a most remarkable gift, the key to the city gates. Though he regretfully finished his address by stating that with his cover blown, he would return to the palace in order to let the rest of us enjoy the festivities.

Once the king had departed, Elsa, who much to Luke’s delight decided to remain for the festival, immediately offered us a quick apology. As she hadn’t known that he would join her, or she would have sent word ahead.
Seeing as she would now be without an escort and sensing an opportunity to tease Luke for his relentless matchmaking attempts on my behalf, I decided to seize the opportunity.

“You know, Luke would be more than happy to escort you,” I announced sweetly, before giving him a gentle shove forward and vanishing into the crowd.
I couldn’t help but grin as I watched the usually confident Luke stumbled a bit over his words before finally strolling away together, hand in hand.

But my amusement was short-lived, as a sudden weight on both my shoulders made me freeze in place. Liliana to my left. Alistan to my right. I knew what this meant. The time had come. The Battle of the Bards awaited.

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The festival

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