Transmigrated as the ill 2nd Prince (BL)

Chapter 6: Festival (Rewritten)

The minutes slipped by as our carriage rumbled down the hill, and the town below came into view.

From our vantage point, we could see balloons floating freely, and a bustling crowd filled the streets, their cheers and chatter reaching even this far up.

'This is thrilling! I just want to leap out of this carriage and run straight there!' I thought excitedly, gripping the seat edge.

But then—

“COUGH! COUGH!” splat

Blood spattered onto my hand. I cursed under my breath. Not again.

I had coughed up blood this morning too, just before leaving for the festival. Allea wanted to tell my father and brother, but I insisted she keep quiet. If they knew, they’d cancel my trip in a heartbeat.

“Your Highness!” Allea gasped, already rummaging through her bag for a handkerchief.

Paladin, seated across from me, looked stunned, probably his first time witnessing my condition.

Without a word, I took the handkerchief Allea handed me and wiped the blood from my hands and mouth. “I’m fine,” I muttered. “Don’t tell anyone, understand?”

They hesitated but ultimately nodded in reluctant agreement. I folded the stained cloth and slipped it into my pocket just as the driver called out, “We’re here!”

Finally.

Through the window, I saw townsfolk bustling about, glancing curiously at the approaching carriage.

As we came to a stop, the driver swung the door open, and Paladin was the first to step out. He extended a hand to help Allea, who blinked in surprise but took it with a small smile.

'Ah-hem. I’m still here, you know,' I thought, amused by their interaction.

When my turn came, Paladin offered me his hand as well, just as he had with Allea. I took it, though inwardly I sighed.

As we emerged from the carriage, murmurs rippled through the crowd.

“A noble?”

“Who's the one with the blue cape?”

“Is it a prince? Or a princess?”

We ignored the whispers as Paladin spoke briefly with the driver, who drove the carriage away.

“So, Your Highness,” Allea asked, “where do you want to go first?”

I shrugged, glancing around. “I’ve never been here before, so I’ll leave it up to you two. Any recommendations?”

Allea and Paladin exchanged glances, then smiled.

“There’s a well-known café nearby,” Allea suggested. “They serve that tea you like, Moon Tea and the cakes are delicious.”

At the mention of cakes, my eyes lit up beneath my hooded cape. “Let’s go!”

_____

Inside the café, I couldn’t help but admire the warm, cozy atmosphere.

The smell of fresh pastries filled the air, and soft sunlight streamed through the windows. The place was small, but peaceful, with just a few other customers, most of whom seemed preoccupied with the parade happening outside.

“This is amazing!” I exclaimed between bites of cake. “Why haven’t I tried these before?”

Allea chuckled. “It’s a festival tradition.”

“And this tea,” I continued, taking a sip, “Moon Tea, right? It’s incredible!”

I was so caught up in the food and conversation with Allea and Paladin that I didn’t notice the amused looks from the café staff and patrons.

Oh no... Realizing how loud I’d been, I quickly pulled my cape closer, trying to hide my embarrassment. The sight made everyone, including the café owner, laugh kindly.

When we finished, the owner waved us off with a smile. “Thank you for visiting! Come again soon!”

I gave a small wave in return as we stepped out, the bell above the door chiming softly.

“Where to next?” I mused aloud.

“Perhaps we should explore the town while the parade is still going,” Paladin suggested. “That way, we can stay together, and I can keep an eye on you.”

I agreed, and we set off. Allea took the lead while Paladin followed behind, ensuring I stayed protected.

As we wandered, I marveled at the colorful market stalls lining the streets. There were vendors selling all sorts of goods. Food, jewelry, clothes, and even small games for festival-goers to enjoy.

So this is what a festival looks like, I thought, enchanted by the lively scene around me.

We tried a few games along the way, though Allea and Paladin forbade me from participating in anything too strenuous.

Some of the games involved magic, while others required strength I didn’t have in my current state. The doctor had warned me not to use magic, as it would strain my fragile health.

Still, the festival was delightful. Watching the townspeople laugh and cheer, and sharing these moments with Allea and Paladin, made the day feel special. Allea even bought me sweets I’d never tasted before, and Paladin guided me to street performers showcasing incredible magic tricks. We became so captivated by the performances that we lost track of time.

Then Paladin pointed toward a stall. “How about that game, Your Highness?”

I followed his gaze to a dart game. A wall of balloons stood behind the counter, and the goal was to pop them with darts for prizes.

“This game should be safe for you,” Paladin said. “The darts are light, and no magic is allowed.”

“I agree!” Allea chimed in. I noticed a faint blush on Paladin’s face as she smiled at him. I stifled a sigh at their awkwardness.

“Well, I suppose I’ll give it a try,” I said with a small grin, stepping toward the stall.

Allea and Paladin followed close behind, ready to cheer me on as I picked up the darts.