The Mark of Aether

The Fire Festival

Time floated like a raging stream, and within the blink of an eye, my first week was already over. Although excruciating, I learnt quite a lot. In each word I read, a spell laid. Everything breathed magic, and it was enchanting.

Walking with Mayra in the open gardens, I enjoyed the warmth of sunlight dancing on my skin. Since this morning, we did nothing but chatter.

''Where did everyone disappear to?'' I asked, curious as to why the school was almost empty.

''A law in the norms says that you can have a signed permission to leave during weekends. The students who wish to get out or visit their family mostly rush to have their allowances signed before noon.''

''Why noon?''

''After midday, the professors stop signing the passes. Unless in some exceptions, students are not allowed to leave after this time.''

''Why didn't you go visit your family?''

''My parents and brothers are in Arelesia, meeting with the annual court held there.''

"I see. I guess that Carter stayed here, too.''

''You found out, then.''

''I did. Are there more surprises regarding this?''

"Yes, but none I am willing to tell you,'' she teased, giving me a wink. Before I could think of anything to say, we both spotted Carter and Blake from afar. With a smile, they joined us.

"I take it that your father did not send you word to join his court, young lord,'' said Mayra, glancing at him.

''I take it that your father did the same. This year's gathering is quite strict. Secrecy is kept, and whatever they say should not get out.''

''I understand.''

''Then, do not wear yourself out on this,'' said Blake as we sat underneath the shade of a cedar. ''An invitation from an ancient friend was sent to me, informing me that the fire festival is held tonight. I thought about going, as it is a chance to enjoy our time.''

''You should have come with this earlier; the teachers already stopped signing passes,'' reasoned Mayra, her eyes staring at the poising sun. In the midst of its firmament, it stood, crowning the vast cerulean sky.

''Perhaps, but this festival is an exception. What do you say?''

"If the teachers are willing to write us permissions, I see it best to go. It has been quite a while since I attended a festival in Cantelot,'' said Carter, his stares drifting towards me. ''Besides, it would be a good opportunity to show you the traditions in this continent.''

''I would love to, but I am not really sure.''

''We will be together in all times, I am sure Ramos will not mind.''

Although it was not why I was worried in the first place, I finally agreed. Part of me was eager to discover the fun in this world, but the other was afraid. After my last conversation with the court leader, it became clear to me that there was a greater game being played. A game that I wished I wasn't a part of.

"Then, what are we waiting for?"

*****

Dismounting my horse, I handed the reins to Blake, who tied the steeds to the closest tree. It had taken us close to an hour of riding until we reached the place. After receiving the permission from one of the guards, I removed my uniform, replacing it with a Celtic dress lined with red to accommodate the evening.

As we stood near the gates of the festival, the settling sun bathed everything in sheens of breathing fire.

The fest was massive in both size and beauty. Festoons made of fire lined the entourage, flickering in several colors. The festival was held in many structures that looked vaguely like Colosseums from afar.