Eight hours later…
It was already late afternoon when the bell signaling the end of classes rang throughout the school. The boisterous sounds of students packing up filled the hallways, creating a typical after-school atmosphere. Bags were slung over shoulders, light laughter could be heard everywhere, and footsteps echoed toward the school gates.
Vaelthanya walked out of the classroom with Yuan Jin. Her face looked brighter than it had that morning, though she still felt unfamiliar with the new world she was experiencing. She walked beside Yuan Jin with light steps, occasionally glancing left and right, observing the city with unwavering curiosity.
The city seemed a little quieter that afternoon than during the day, yet it offered a beautiful serenity. Golden sunlight shone off the buildings, casting long shadows across the streets. A gentle evening breeze blew, carrying the distinctive scent of approaching summer.
On their way home, their pace slowed as the sounds of commotion caught their attention. A large group of people gathered in the distance, accompanied by the glow of streetlights and the faint sound of music.
"What is that?" Vaelthanya asked, staring at the crowd with sparkling eyes.
Yuan Jin also looked in the same direction. "Looks like there's a festival."
They approached, walking along the road until they arrived at a town square that had now become a hub of activity. It was indeed a summer festival. Brightly colored banners hung from every corner, small lights were neatly arranged, and various rides stood majestically around the square.
The festival was being held to welcome the arrival of summer in the next few days. The atmosphere was lively and colorful. Children ran around, young couples strolled side by side, and vendors busily served customers on every street corner.
Vaelthanya's eyes fell on a large ride spinning slowly in the distance. Its lights glittered as the giant wheel moved.
"What's that thing?" she asked, pointing without hesitation.
"It's a Ferris wheel," Yuan Jin replied. "Do you want to ride it?"
"Yes. I want to," Vaelthanya replied quickly, her tone full of enthusiasm.
Yuan Jin smiled slightly and immediately bought a ticket. After waiting a few minutes, they managed to get their tickets. However, in front of the ride, a long line greeted them again.
"Why is the line so long?" Vaelthanya asked, her face slightly scrunched up.
"Maybe it's because this ride isn't available often. It usually only appears during festivals like this," Yuan Jin replied.
Vaelthanya sighed softly and showed a frown. Her great enthusiasm seemed to be stifled by the long wait.
Seeing this, Yuan Jin thought for a moment. "How about we go around first? We can buy some food while we wait."
Vaelthanya's eyes lit up again. "Okay. I happen to be hungry."
They walked along the rows of food vendors. The aromas of various dishes mingled in the air, making the atmosphere even more tempting. Vaelthanya stopped in front of a stall and pointed without hesitation.
"Cotton candy?" Yuan Jin asked.
"Yes," Vaelthanya replied with a nod.
"But it's bad for your teeth," Yuan Jin said, trying to advise her.
In response, Vaelthanya returned her pouting face, turning her face away and crossing her arms.
Yuan Jin sighed resignedly. "Okay… let's go buy some."
They bought two pink cotton candy canes and sat down on an empty bench by the side of the road. Vaelthanya ate them eagerly, until some of them stuck to the corners of her lips.
Yuan Jin watched her for a moment, then carefully wiped her face with the cloth of his shirt.
"Thank you," Vaelthanya said softly.
Yuan Jin simply raised his thumb, smiling slightly.
Shortly afterward, a balloon seller passed by them. Yuan Jin turned. "I'm thirsty. Let's get some drinks."
But when he looked back, Vaelthanya was no longer beside him. It turned out she had jogged over to the balloon seller, jumping up and down trying to reach the balloons hanging above.
"Hey, what are you doing?" the balloon seller asked, surprised.
Yuan Jin could only slap his forehead before approaching them. "Do you want a balloon?"
Vaelthanya nodded quickly.
The balloon seller chuckled and lowered a balloon, handing it to Vaelthanya. After that, he left without another word.
Before they realized it, the queue for the Ferris wheel had thinned considerably. Yuan Jin immediately caught Vaelthanya's attention.
"The line's getting short. Come on."
They hurried to the ride. It was their turn. The cabin opened, and Yuan Jin boarded first. However, Vaelthanya had difficulty climbing into the cabin due to her height.
Without hesitation, Yuan Jin carried her into the cabin. The ride began to move slowly, then climbed higher and higher. From up high, the view of the city became even more beautiful.
"Look… the sun is starting to set," Yuan Jin said.
Vaelthanya fell silent, gazing at the sunset sky in awe. Orange and purple hues adorned the horizon, creating a sight she had never seen before.
A few minutes later, they disembarked.
"What else do you want to ride now?" Yuan Jin asked.
Vaelthanya looked around, until her eyes fell on a giant, majestic hot air balloon. She pointed to it slowly.
"I want to ride that… with you," she said, her voice full of hope.
Yuan Jin smiled and nodded.
Night fell. The festival lights lit up, illuminating the grounds with a warm glow. From the hot air balloon, the view of the city looked even more beautiful. This was the first time Vaelthanya had seen the mortal world from such a height—serene, sparkling, and teeming with life.
Something warm slowly grew in her heart, though she didn't yet understand what it meant