The Land of Phaleno: The Princess's Rebirth (Book I)

Chapter Eighteen: "In the Shadow of Fireworks"

The rain gradually subsided, leaving only gentle droplets that pattered against the roof and empty shop walls. The soft trickle of descending water filled the quiet night, as if calming the atmosphere after the storm. Beneath the dim streetlamp, the shadow of a woman lay sprawled before a closed shop, enveloped in profound silence.

Her head was bowed, her body frozen in restless sleep, trapped in the night's chill. Her skin appeared pale, and her breath fogged in the cold air. The darkness of night and hunger made her shiver.

The woman awoke slowly, her eyes opening with a confused gaze as she adjusted to the surrounding darkness. The soft patter of rain was her only companion in the quiet night. Her skin appeared pale, and her breath fogged in the cold air. The darkness of night and hunger made her shiver.

To combat the biting cold, she wrapped her face in the folded collar of her coat, as if it were her final defense against the penetrating chill. She clutched her arm with cold hands and pulled her coat tighter around her body, attempting to gather some warmth.

Her gaze fell upon her right leg, which appeared lame and pained. With slow and careful movements, she reached out, gently probing her leg with her touch. Her fingers found the sore spot, caressing it softly as if to soothe the pain. She grasped the leg with both hands and began to move it slowly, each movement accompanied by a cautiousness to ensure that the pain had lessened.

After a while, her expression began to change into a sign of relief. She felt that the pain was beginning to fade, and the discomfort that had previously troubled her had subsided. Carefully, she tried to move the leg more freely and felt an improvement.

With careful deliberation, the woman attempted to stand, feeling the weight of her right leg noticeably lighter. Though her first step was still awkward, she felt there was enough strength to try and rise. She grasped the cold shop wall for support.

Her eyes fell upon the closed shop door, filled with hope, as if seeking a miracle within that could alleviate her hunger and chill. However, only luxurious garments hung lifelessly, offering no sustenance.

Finally, with resolute determination, she stepped out into the darkened street, following her instincts to keep moving despite the lack of clear direction. Each flash of lightning that struck illuminated her path, providing a momentary beacon in the night's darkness. All that mattered to her now was to keep moving forward, even if her destination was vague.

Meanwhile, the kingdom celebrated a magnificent three-day fireworks display as the prelude to a grand parade. Each night, the sky was adorned with dazzling bursts of color, creating an enchanting spectacle and celebrating the night with grandeur.

The streets were thronged with crowds, from commoners to nobles in lavish attire, all gathered to enjoy the night's beauty. The sound of cheers and laughter blended into a nocturnal symphony, creating a festive atmosphere in anticipation of the event's climax.

The woman's steps led her to the brightly lit city center. The glittering streetlights served as beacons in the dark night, guiding her through the increasingly crowded throng. She began to encounter numerous passersby, making the streets feel narrow and congested.

Inebriated men with the pungent scent of alcohol began to harass her with crude remarks and unpleasant laughter. The woman quickly pulled her long coat tighter, covering her face and body to shield herself from unwanted gazes and touches.

With a pounding heart, the woman slipped through the dense crowd. She moved swiftly, her eyes taking in every mesmerizing detail. Around her, various nightly attractions entertained the crowd. A man skillfully played with fire, swinging it in captivating patterns. Not far from him, another performer breathed fire, creating fiery jets in the air, adding to the night's extraordinary enchantment.