Fables of La Source ✓

Reveries of the present

The Valley of Mironia, once the cradle of an era's grandeur, now consists solely of ruins and a very old, antique castle dating back to the 18th century. This castle, still owned and inherited through generations, is maintained only through the visits of tourists and the family's finances.

Further west of this valley, a town had developed since time immemorial, thanks to its flourishing businesses, and had eventually grown more significant than the residence of that bygone era.

Today, this town is renowned for its pétanque tournaments and prestigious universities. Midyear, only students and local inhabitants frequent the city.

A fresh wind stirred the branches, heralding the beginning of winter and the end of autumn.

"Célestin!!"

Startled, he turned towards the voice but could not avoid the heavy figure that crashed into him. The two students sprawled on the ground, the smaller one lying on his back, his long brown hair spread out behind his head. A displeased expression formed as he pouted.

"Gabriel! Why is it your habit to pounce on me?, the young man scolded, trying to push off the larger, firmer figure leaning on his arms.

- Because it's fun, of course!, his interlocutor retorted with a chuckle.

- Please, get up!, Célestin finally pleaded, blushing with embarrassment.

- Alright, alright, since you ask so nicely," Gabriel agreed, getting up and offering his hand.

Célestin took it and was pulled to his feet with such force that he ended up in the arms of the very person who had knocked him down.

"Gabriel..." he warned.

Nonetheless, his companion merely released him and smiled innocently, though his eyes twinkled with mischief.

"Very funny, the smaller man mocked.

- Célestin, his friend suddenly continued.

- Yes?

- My uncle has requested to see me at his manor. Would you like to come with me?", he asked.

Then, noticing his friend's profound silence, he added a soft "please?" The other stared at him for a long moment before heaving a deep sigh.

"Alright, let's go, he consented.

- Wonderful!! Follow me, Célestin!", Gabriel urged, grabbing his hand and leading him through the town's alleys.

At this gesture, Célestin blushed softly. To change the subject, he tightened his shoulder bag and the collar of his sweater, then decided to inquire about Gabriel's family.

"How's your brother Georges doing lately?, Célestin asked as they passed by the fishmonger, ignoring the whiting that had just smacked a poor lobster with its tail.

- Hmm, he finally broke up with Hector and is now dating Elisabeth. She's a nice and intelligent girl, so I think she'll suit him better than that fool. Anyway, it was his sister I didn't like. Guenievre was really mean to everyone, I'm glad I don't have to deal with her anymore, Gabriel vented rapidly, clearly needing to get things off his chest, And you, Célestin?

- Oh, I don't know much. I've only heard from Rose recently, but everything seems to be going well, the young man replied.

- Good to hear and—watch out!" Gabriel exclaimed, jumping to the side and grabbing the other person.