Avatar of the Frozen Behemoth: Volume 1

Chapter 11: Through the Eyes of the Siren

As they walked, Calista spotted her friend Colleen down the pathway. "Oh, there's Colleen! Let's say hello."

Colleen, a cheerful woman with a warm smile and vibrant red hair tucked neatly under a knitted hat, waved as they approached. "Calista! It's been ages. How are you?"

Calista laughed, the two women quickly falling into an animated conversation. "Oh, you know, the usual. But tonight's special, isn't it? Have you heard about Evie's performance?"

Colleen nodded eagerly. "Yes! Everyone's been talking about it. I can't wait to hear her sing. It's going to be magical."

"Speaking of magic," Calista said, glancing around, "where's Mia? I thought she'd be with you."

Just then, a small figure darted toward them, her curly hair bouncing with each step. "Mom! Calista! Yukio!" Mia exclaimed, her voice bright and full of energy as she joined Amara.

"Mia!" Amara squealed, her eyes lighting up at the sight of her friend. The two girls immediately began to chatter, their voices blending into a symphony of excitement.

Yukio, feeling a bit left out, glanced around, observing the bustling scene. His thoughts turned to Evie, the king of Spadia's daughter. What makes her so special that she gets to lead the Senroco ceremony? She must be pretty impressive if everyone's talking about her.

His thoughts were interrupted by a tug on his sleeve. Amara, excited and slightly overwhelmed by the sights and sounds, tugged at Yukio's sleeve with a small, impatient pout.

"Yuki, I'm hungry! Mom said you can buy me something to eat." Yukio couldn't help smiling at his sister's typical childlike behavior.

"Alright, alright. Let's get you something to eat." As they walked, they passed by groups of townspeople discussing the upcoming ceremony. Snippets of conversation floated past them.

"I can't wait to hear the princess sing. It's been so long since she performed in public."

"Did you see the decorations this year? They've really outdone themselves."

"Senroco always brings back so many memories. It's a special time for all of us."

Yukio listened, trying to reconcile his own feelings about the event with the evident excitement of those around him. Despite his skepticism, a small part of him couldn't help but feel intrigued.

Holding Amara's hand, Yukio led her to the food stalls, their colorful displays and mouth-watering scents drawing a crowd. They inspected the various options, "What do you want?" Yukio asked, kneeling down to her level.

Amara's eyes sparkled as she took in the offerings. "I want one of those!" she exclaimed, pointing to a stall selling warm, flaky pastries filled with sweet fruit.

"Good choice," Yukio said. He nodded and headed towards the stall, where a cheerful vendor greeted them. "Good morning! What can I get for you today?"

Yukio glanced back at Amara, who was practically bouncing with anticipation. "One of those sugar-coated pastries, please."

handing over a few coins to the vendor. He took the pastry and handed it to Amara, who beamed up at him. The vendor quickly packaged the pastry and handed it to Yukio.

"Here you go. Enjoy!" Yukio smiled as he handed the pastry to Amara, who took it eagerly. "Thanks, Yuki!" she said with a happy grin, taking a big bite.

The pastry was warm and flaky, and the sweet fruit filling burst with flavor as she chewed, her eyes widening in delight. "Is it good?" Yukio asked, watching her face light up.