I was doing everything to forget the altercation with Fred, but on the other hand, as a former human, I understood him. The sun was beginning to set, painting the sky with a palette of shimmering colors through the windows of the tower. I stood by the laboratory window, marveling at the celestial spectacle. A gentle breeze danced with the curtains, filling the room with a scent of magic.

I was about to leave, ready to go. "Tomorrow, I'll come back to find you, Frida, and together, we'll continue our quest to find the moon dragon. So I won't keep you any longer, and I'll go look for an inn to spend the night."

However, Frida gently held me back by the arm. "No one will let a goblin sleep in their inn, Riko. It would be too bad for business with the other customers. Come to my place instead, you'll be safe and comfortable there."

We decided to leave Frida's laboratory and head to her house not far from the Tower. As we descended the spiral staircase, I felt a newfound determination take hold of me. I wouldn't let Fred's prejudices or any obstacles on our path prevent us from finding the moon dragon and saving the kingdom.

Frida suggested taking a slight detour to visit the city, and I happily agreed. We met some of Frida's acquaintances, who warmly greeted the powerful sorceress, until we arrived at the central square. The central square was a true enchanted garden, adorned with flowers of dazzling hues and shimmering lanterns. Stalls were set up around the square, though they were still empty.

"The Moon Festival is an age-old tradition celebrated in the City of Enchantments to honor the moon, magic, and the spirits of nature. It's a time of celebration and communion among the city's inhabitants," Frida informed me.

The merchants chatted and laughed among themselves. I even caught sight of Azarus, who winked knowingly at me when he saw me with Frida.

Suddenly, Frida pulled me by the arm, and we wandered through narrow, winding streets. As we walked, we reached a part of the city where houses were of all shapes and sizes. Frida explained that this residential area was reserved for the elite wizards of the Tower of Sorcery, and each one had an extravagant personality, evident in the unique design of their houses, each a reflection of their owners.

Amidst this enchanting place, I discovered Frida's house. It was shaped like a tree, with roots spreading into the ground and branches reaching toward the sky. The leaves of the trees shimmered with a silvery glow, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

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I was left speechless by this wonder. I could never have imagined such a house, a true hidden gem in the heart of the City of Enchantments.

Frida looked at me, her face beaming with pride. "Welcome to my home, Riko. This is where I draw my energy and connection with nature. It's also where I find peace and seek answers to my deepest magical questions."

The interior of the house was warm and inviting. The weathered wooden walls told a story, and the shelves filled with books and magical objects piqued my curiosity. The aroma of herbs and plants floating in the air gave me a soothing feeling. We sat down at a low table, where Frida prepared tea in delicate porcelain cups.

As we enjoyed our tea, Frida continued to talk about the moon dragon that had disappeared. "According to recent rumors, an old lady might have witnessed the dragon's disappearance. She lives in the market district, a few streets from here. I think it would be wise to visit her tomorrow and gather more information. Perhaps she can help us understand what happened."

Captivated by the idea of meeting this mysterious old lady, I nodded. "That sounds like a promising lead. We should definitely pay her a visit and find out what she knows."

The conversation extended late into the night, with Frida and I sharing stories and experiences. I felt fortunate to have found such a powerful and compassionate ally in my quest to find the moon dragon.

As the night wore on, fatigue began to set in. I couldn't help but ask Frida, "Excuse me, Frida, but where will I sleep tonight?"

A kind smile spread across her face. "Don't worry, Riko. I have a guest room where you can spend the night peacefully. Follow me, I'll show you."

We climbed a wooden staircase leading to the upper floor of the house. Frida opened a door and revealed a simple yet comfortable bedroom. A plush bed was placed against one of the walls, and a small window let in the silvery moonlight, offering a view of the still bustling street.

I said good night to Frida and she left to give me some privacy.

As I lay down on the bed, I felt the fatigue of the day take over. But despite the comfort of the bed, my mind was restless. Fred's face, the prejudices he expressed, and the obstacles awaiting us on our quest to find the moon dragon kept replaying in my mind.

As I sank into a troubled sleep, I was caught in a disturbing nightmare. I suddenly found myself in a dark, dense forest, lit only by the faint glow of the moon. A horned silhouette emerged from the shadows, fixing me with its glowing and unsettling eyes. Its voice echoed in my head like a threatening whisper.

"You've taken the wrong path, goblin. You've wandered into this magical world, thinking you could embark on a noble quest. But you are nothing more than an insignificant being, worthless in this realm. The creatures of the night will laugh at your presumption and naivety."

The silhouette approached me, and I felt an intense fear engulf me. My legs seemed unwilling to move, and I felt trapped in this oppressive atmosphere. The voice continued to resonate, growing more and more menacing.

"Turn back, goblin, before it's too late. You will never find the moon dragon, and your quest will end in misery and failure."

Then, darkness engulfed everything.

to be continued...