Solstice - A Prologue for Arson

An Easy Start

- ✦ -

Elaine entered Alexa's room and then felt that she needed the comforts of the bed immediately. And so she did, dropping on one like a dead fish, a comparison that was just enough to make Alexa smile.

“I didn’t know you were that tired…”

“Yeah, well…”

Elaine groaned as she turned her head to face Alexa, who was sitting on a bed on the other side of the room.

“Walking all morning to look for a room after an already long journey will do that to someone.”

“Haha, guess so…”

Elaine turned in the bed so she had her sore back on the mattress.

“What brings you here, Alexa? Since you had to rent a bigger room, I’m guessing you aren’t a native Calveran?”

“Oh, no I’m just staying here for the Festival. I’ve only been here a few times throughout my life, and never during the Solstice. But today is different! I thought I might meet some new people!”

“Well lo’ and behold, here is Elaine. A new person, heheh.”

“What about you, then?”

“Heh... I was just looking for a place to sleep. Didn't know there was a festival on the city's schedule, but I guess I'm in for the ride. What's so good about it anyway?"

"Well… it's the summer solstice, which means it's the beginning of the planting season for the next few months. For Calveran, the 'City of Flowers,' the Solstice is not just a mark on a farmer's schedule. People pour in from all over, ambassadors, merchants, and more, seeking diplomacy or trade while feasting on midsummer’s harvest. Adventurers seeking supplies or even just spectacle, such as ourselves, also get in!”

Elaine's interest piqued at the thought of so much happening in one day.

"Welp, I gotta go run some errands... You stay here and get rested, I'll wake you up later, there's something you just have to see."

"Oh? Is it beer?"

"Haha, no, silly! That's for the evening!"

"... Rad."