"You're finally here," I said as I found Noomi and Tindra in the bustling crowd.
"Hehe… I got stuck inside, you know," Tindra said, sounding guilty.
"That's fine. Now that you're here, let's explore the festival together."
"Fine—wait, was the library open today?" Tindra asked, glancing at the book in my hand.
"Isn't today a public holiday?" Noomi asked, confused.
"Well, maybe they had some work to do," I replied.
"You're interested in dragons?" Noomi asked, curious.
"Yeah, recently," I said, masking the truth — I didn't want anyone to know about the nightmares I'd been having.
"My big brother's into that stuff too. He says myths and legends are fascinating."
"Well, they're well-written — full of logic and meaning."
"Stop talking about books and explore!" Tindra interrupted.
"Says the one who drowns herself in books trying to be a perfect healer," Noomi teased, smirking.
Tindra glared at her. "Wanna test how it feels to be a healer?"
"Nope, thanks."
Tindra grabbed both our hands and started pulling us forward. "Then let's go!!"
---
The whole day went smoothly — roaming through the festival, tasting different snacks, gossiping about everything we'd kept bottled up, and finally, enjoying the fireworks.
I was glad. It had been so long since I'd had such a good time with them.
I was a little anxious that someone might recognize me, but it seemed I was such an eyesore before that no one even remembered my aura.
Well… it turned out to be useful in the end.
I bid goodbye to Noomi and Tindra before stepping through the portal back to Master Obrone's house.
---
I arrived in the living room — my room.
"You're finally back!!" Shimi shouted, leaping straight onto my neck.
I was used to it by now. Honestly, it felt nice. I knew it was her way of showing affection.
"Yeah — and not empty-handed! I bought you a gift."
"Really?! What is it?" she squealed in excitement.
"Slow down, buddy. Here you go." I tied a new ribbon around her neck — it shimmered softly, matching her silver eyes.
Her eyes widened, gleaming with joy. "Thank you so much! It's so pretty and soft! I love it!"
"You're welcome," I said, smiling.
"You must be so tired. I'll bring you some water," she said, hopping off to fetch it.
I began taking off the weird cloak and colored lenses that Noomi and Tindra had forced on me.
But one thing wouldn't leave my mind — where were Master Obrone and Rein?
I couldn't sense either of their auras. It had happened before, but still… Rein might still be at the festival, but Master Obrone? Out this late?
It felt suspicious.
And if Obrone wasn't here — why was Shimi here? Mana pets don't usually leave their masters' side unless ordered to. Did he tell her to stay here? I couldn't quite piece it together.
While I was lost in thought, Shimi returned, carrying a glass of water tied to the end of her tail.
"Here's your water," she said, setting it in front of me.
"Thanks." I took it and drank a few sips.
Curiosity got the better of me. "Hey, Shimi, where's Master Obrone?"
Shimi paused for a moment, then looked at me. "I don't know. He didn't tell me anything."
She was lying. I could tell. But I didn't push further — I was too tired to deal with it.
Shimi took the empty glass and went to put it away. A few minutes later, she came back, wished me good night, and disappeared into her room.
I stayed awake for a while, trying to sense either of their auras — but hours passed, and nothing.
I was especially waiting for Master Obrone. I'd even bought something for him at the festival. I guess I'd just have to give it to him tomorrow.
Exhaustion finally caught up to me, and I drifted into sleep.
---
I hate sleeping. Because every time I do… I see that nightmare.
And every time, it feels like a little more of my soul fades away.
The same vision —
A room drenched in blood. Familiar faces — my family, my villagers — staring at me with disgust, their mouths moving with words I couldn't hear but could feel.
Chains of vines coiled around my body, cold and suffocating.
And before me… a pair of dragon's eyes.
If I could erase one thing from my life, it would be this nightmare.
But this time — something was different.
A faint light appeared in the darkness. Someone was there.
This had never happened before.
As the light softened, I saw the person clearly.
A beautiful woman — ethereal, almost translucent, like a wandering spirit. Her long gown drifted in the air. Her pale blue hair shimmered like starlight.
At her presence, the nightmare dissolved.
Everything turned white.
Only she and I remained.
The woman smiled gently, then began to sing — a lullaby.
Sleep tight, my child.
When stars shine bright,
Moon blesses pure minds.
My pure baby, sleep and dream —
Dream sweet all night.
Her voice was so soft, so soothing, that my body relaxed instantly.
It had been so long since I'd slept this peacefully…
Thanks to that lady.
---