The Binding Fates SEASON 1: The Past

Chapter 49: The Rahania Empire: The Zahrah Parade

The second week of the festival dawned, a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors and joyous sounds. The Mansion of Hildegarde buzzed with anticipation, the Student Council members poised for their grand entrance into the heart of the festivities. Yet, amidst the excitement, Elyse felt a shiver crawl down her spine, a premonition of something unknown.

Gazing out the window at the breathtaking panorama of Rahania, she saw a world teeming with life, a tapestry woven with ancient traditions and vibrant culture. But a shadow of doubt lingered, a whisper of fear that refused to be silenced.

Taking a deep breath, she steeled her nerves, her heart pounding a defiant rhythm against her ribs. She donned the exquisite dress the emperor had gifted her, a garment that seemed to echo the very essence of Aniya, her long-lost ancestor.

Did she still hate Aniya? The question echoed in the chambers of her heart, a haunting melody that refused to be silenced. A yearning to understand Aniya, to unravel the mysteries of her past, now outweighed the bitterness that had once consumed her.

The Student Council members embarked on their journey to explore the ancient tower of Rahania, a place steeped in legend and shrouded in whispers. It was said to be the very tower where Aniya had ended her own life, a tragic sacrifice made in the name of Tina's vengeance.

As they crossed the threshold, a wave of cold, eerie energy washed over them, a palpable sense of sorrow and loss. But outside, the city erupted in a symphony of celebration. The air thrummed with the joyous laughter of the crowds, the vibrant colors of padisarah petals swirling in the wind, and the rhythmic beat of drums echoing through the streets.

The flower festival, a celebration of the Goddess of Wisdom and Flowers, was a riot of sound and color, a vibrant tapestry of life that seemed to erase the shadows of the past.

"Are you coming, Elyse?" Chad's voice, warm and reassuring, broke through Elyse's reverie. He found her gazing out the window, her eyes reflecting the kaleidoscope of colors below.

"Oh? Ah, right I'm coming," Elyse replied, her gaze lingering on the vibrant scene. Chad, sensing her fascination, commented, "Must be amazing to finally be able to experience your ancestor's culture and tradition, although she is mixed."

Elyse nodded, her heart swelling with a newfound appreciation. "It's my first time entering Rahania and everything looks beautiful. From the establishments to streets, to knowledge, to the landscape – everything," she said, her voice filled with wonder.

Chad chuckled, finding her childlike enthusiasm endearing. "Well, I'm glad you now experience it. In the future, there will be more festivals to come," he said, his eyes twinkling with a mischievous glint.

Elyse, caught in the warmth of his gaze, blurted out, "Will you be with me when that time comes?"

The words hung in the air, heavy with unspoken emotions. Elyse, realizing her gaffe, quickly covered her mouth, her cheeks flushing crimson. "No! No, I meant us! Everyone! I... I hope everyone is still with me when the festival comes. Y-you know, it's more fun if we have Lu and everyone else," she stammered, her voice barely a whisper.

Chad leaned closer, his presence a comforting warmth against the chill of the tower. Their gazes locked, a silent conversation passing between them. He smiled, his eyes filled with a depth that sent a shiver down her spine.

"Then I guess I will join you forever," he said, his voice a soft murmur that sent a thrill through her.

"W-what are you saying...!" Elyse gasped, her heart pounding a frantic rhythm.

"OI, WHAT ARE YOU DOING THERE? COME ON, I AM HUNGRY!" Kai's booming voice echoed through the tower, shattering the fragile spell.

"Kai, you dumb! Mind your voice!" Louisette snapped back, her voice sharp as a whip.