The festival grounds of Hesreth Street and Mystic Academy were alive with color, noise, and mouthwatering aromas. Rows of stalls stretched as far as the eye could see, each decorated with bright banners and painted signs.
Students hurried about in groups, their laughter mixing with the clatter of game booths and the sizzling of fresh food being cooked.
For the first time in days, Aranea felt like nothing heavy was weighing on her. No reminders of rules, rivalries, or lectures, just the sheer joy of being at a festival with her friends.
"Alright!" she said, pumping her fist into the air as they turned the corner into the gaming street. "We've got three hours before the Bean Toss Festival. We're going to conquer every game, win every prize, and eat every snack possible!"
Aleck groaned immediately. "Absolutely not. That's impossible."
Aranea turned, eyes sparkling mischievously. "Impossible, you say? Then it's a challenge!"
