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Chapter 21

A fine day to do some gardening. Our beloved doctor already rises and shines before everyone else to look after some of his favorite pots as well as trim the grass, despite the fact that it's not his job to do so, yet Theodore finds such activities soothing and enjoyable. To the sounds of birds and the delightful scent of flowers, what a nice break to have for quite a while, especially after those last few days. He was focusing on watering the turmeric plant when he saw some folks running to the main hall as if in complete urgency. Perhaps it's time to see what's going on. Putting off gloves and gardening gear, Theodore decides to go with the flow of people. What welcomes him is a dozen souls clumped in front of the notice board in a lively atmosphere. Fortunately, Theodore manages to slip through the crowd, only to see a few colorful posters about a summer festival in the nearby town of Windensburg. The festival is undoubtedly the biggest one in the region, featuring a variety of activities such as dancing, drinking,... Theodore takes a good look at every poster, mostly announcing time and location, then the main one stands out with an image of the town gate accompanied by a decent-sized line: "Once a year, when the summer comes, a festival to celebrate the harvest festival will be held." Not long after the arrival of the doctor, the nurses and other soldiers notice him, and a swarm starts to form around the poor Theodore.

"Doctor, there is a festival in Windenburg, and it's really huge." A nurse chirped. Then another one, "Please! This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance!" A younger soldier wastes no time standing out and voicing out, "Please, this will be a good time for us to find the ideal partners!" The whole crowd, in unison, "Yeah!" The enthusiasm of the folks left the beloved doctor no choice but to allow it, forcing a long sigh to escape. "Alright, alright, consider this a chance to wind down for a while." Then continue "It's been years since the last time we participated in this kind of event." Hearing the approval from Theodore surely sent every soul here into absolute cheerfulness. One by one, with big grins drawn on their faces, they said, "Thank you so much, Doctor!" Perhaps being able to see how delightful they are bringing a pleasant feeling, Theodore. At least at the end of the day, he can pay something back for their unyielding efforts to save the ordinary. How incredible to see that the air is now more spirited than ever! Everyone is up to their ears in preparing their most stunning outfit for the occasion. The girls ebulliently chose the exquisite fabrics they gathered from the city, along with picking their dress code. The diversity of color and texture is undeniable. Excitement is drawn through laughs and giggles. The boys are no exception, though, as they join in a wholehearted discussion, deciding on their outfits to impress the girls. After all, the reason why they are so eager for this event lies within the ancient myth.

A long, long time ago,

A flower bloom deep in the forest

In the loved of the maiden, it rises

Glowing in the color of tears

All things envy its beauty

With his quiver and hunting bow

A hunter in his sacred quest

Followed the sound below

There he found the maiden

The child of the forest

Bathed in moonlight, she sings

Blindfold hides away the reality

Embrace by flowers, she dances

The answer to his quest, finally comes

For his heart has yearned for the maiden

They dance days and nights

Drunk in the sweet wine of love

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A happy family he promised

They planned to leave the forest

The forest, O' Great Mother

Not keen on letting her daughter go

For where she belongs

It's here, in the protection of the woods

Who can stop the flame of Love

As it burnt two hearts into one

The fate, O' Great Father

Blindfold falling down, revealing the truth

She falls, at the edge of the forest

For she is forbidden to get out

In tears, she disappears in the moonlight

Left alone a heartbroken man

Then this time every year

Thousand of sky lanterns to remember his loved one

A flower bloom deep in the forest

In the loved of the maiden, it rises

Glowing in the color of Love

All things envy its beauty.

Soon the day arrived, and the folks of the mansion were now preparing everything, from outfits and accessories to even cologne. They are trying their best to craft a memorable event that will begin at the very best moment of the day- the sunset.

"What do you think? Should I wear more lace?" Sheritre, in a navy dress, turns around in front of the mirror. "Great idea, I will add more for you." Another uses the chalk ticking on the dress. They are all hastily completing the final touches in time, and Cecil is no exception.

The white dress in her hand appears to be fairly simple, but behind the normal appearance are the elegant flowers and delicate embroidery that contrast perfectly with her skin and crimson hair. Swinging her dress in happiness, she can't hide away her bright smile. Her mind was filled with thousands of fantasies. "I'm glad to see how happy you are, Cecil." Lily patted her shoulder. Lily, with her skillfulness in almost every field, will most definitely be busy sewing the outfits. Though tired, seeing the smiles of those she loves is enough. "Is it because of Luke, right?" asked the nurse, teasing Cecil. "Oh Cecil, will you ask him to be your dance partner?" Another nurse popped, her eyes filling with utter excitement, "Please, you have to!" "Wha-, why him? I mean..." Cecil is rendered speechless, her face flushed bright red. She stares at the ground in timidity, too embarrassed to even look at their sparkling eyes. They all showered her with puppy eyes, demanding an answer, which she knew they wouldn't give up. "Fine, alright, I will ask him.'' Cecil sighed to the cheers of the girls.

Deciding to take a walk in the hall, Theodore can't help but feel a little excitement himself. It could be because of the joyful atmosphere that has filled their mundane lives. Then he notices the sight of a familiar man, leaning casually on the railing, smoking. The wafting smoke lingered around him, creating a mysterious feeling. Taking a deep breath, he let out a trail of smoke. His messy black hair fell down over his concentrated eyes, the emerald eyes saw from afar. "Oh? Fancy to see you, Dr." His low, teasing voice welcomes Theodore. The long fingers played with the smoke before him. He is entirely the opposite of the crowded scene inside. "Smoking is killing you." Theodore stands next to Alderic. To his surprise, Alderic let out a laugh. Alderic smirked as he stomped on the final smoke, "My bad... but." Lowering his head, he looks at Theodore attentively and says, "Cigarette is not the only thing killing me."

"I always seem to interfere in your moments.", Reid's voice awakened both of them. As it happens to be quite hungry, Reid decides to drop by the kitchen. But he never thought he would meet these two, especially at this bad time. "We don't have any moments," Theodore defended. As a result of witnessing so many of these two, Reid soon becomes immune, "Really? "So, why are there so many flowers blooming and hearts flowing around here?" he sighs, "I just want a peaceful night." The answer left Theodore speechless, while Alderic laughed out loud. Taking his leave, he waves, "Well then, see you at the festival."

"A festival... interesting," Alderic smiled. Though the lights in the hall were barely bright enough, somehow his smile was still vivid. "Will you attend the festival with us?" Theodore wondered. Seeing him alone in the hall like this, rise an uncertain feeling. Though he is still the normal Alderic he knows, since their return, he is somehow different. Even Luke is nowhere to be seen. It seems there was something burdening his mind. Still, there was an invincible boundary between them that he didn't dare to cross. "Oh? "Are you asking me out?" he inquired, shrugging his shoulders. "If our Dr. has said that, then I will follow."

Can't stand any more of the annoyance, Theodore takes a leave. "I will make sure to put on my best outfit," Alderic calls out.