Everyone buzzed with excitement as the long-awaited spring festival finally arrived. Brightly colored banners fluttered in the breeze, and the scent of fresh flowers and baked goods filled the air. Lance, having helped Farmer Thorne set up the jam stall, wandered through the bustling marketplace, marveling at the array of stalls and activities. Children laughed as they chased each other, and the cheerful sounds of music and chatter echoed through the village square.
Lance’s friend, Jory, had been particularly excited about the festival. He had spent weeks planning and setting up a game booth called “Throw the Hoop,” a simple yet popular game that drew crowds every year. Lance made his way to Jory’s booth, eager to try his hand at the game and support his friend.
“Lance! Over here!” Jory called out, waving enthusiastically. He was a stocky boy with a wide grin and an infectious energy that could lift anyone’s spirits. “Ready to test your aim?”
Lance grinned back, “You bet! Let’s see if I can win one of those prizes.”
As Lance stepped up to the booth, he noticed Father Elias, the village priest, watching nearby. Father Elias was a kind and wise man, respected by all. His gentle demeanor and insightful words often provided comfort and guidance to the villagers. He caught Lance’s eye and smiled warmly.
“Good afternoon, Lance,” Father Elias greeted him. “Care for a little friendly competition?”
Lance chuckled, feeling a mix of nervousness and excitement. “Sure, Father Elias. Let’s see who has the better aim.”
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Jory handed them each a set of rings, and they took their positions. The goal was to toss the rings onto a series of pegs set at varying distances. As they began, Father Elias struck up a conversation.
“How are your studies going, Lance?” he asked, referring to the education provided by the Church of Aris, which was accessible to all in the empire.
Lance shrugged. “They’re going all right, I suppose. Magic Lore is pretty fascinating.”
Father Elias smiled. “I’m glad to hear that. You know, I hold daily guided prayers for the people. Would you like to join us sometime?”
Lance hesitated, he had never been the most religious person. “I appreciate the offer, Father, but I’ve got a lot on my plate right now.”
Father Elias nodded. “That’s all right, Lance. The invitation is always open if you change your mind.”
Lance relaxed a little, appreciating the priest’s non-judgmental attitude. They continued the game, he aimed for the farthest peg, knowing it would be a difficult shot.
“Think you can make it?” Father Elias teased.
“Watch and learn,” Lance shot back with a smirk.
He released the ring, but as it flew through the air, he felt sure he had completely missed. Suddenly, a sharp pain shot through his core, and his vision blurred with a blinding flash of light. He stumbled, momentarily disoriented. When he regained his composure, he noticed that no one seemed to have noticed anything amiss. A few onlookers started cheering, and Jory clapped him on the back, beaming with pride.
“Nice shot, Lance! It’s in the goal!”
Lance blinked, looking at the farthest peg and seeing the ring perfectly encircling it. Confusion and unease swirled within him, but he forced a smile.
“Uh, thanks, Jory,” he said, trying to act normal.
Father Elias eyed him curiously but said nothing, only offering a warm smile. “Well done, Lance. Seems you’ve got quite the talent.”
As the crowd dispersed, Lance couldn’t shake the feeling that something unusual had happened.