Carnival Part One

"Thank you for today, ladies. Here, grab these masks to use at the dance tonight."

"You're too sweet Mr. Bennett, we only did what we could," Brenda said humbly.

"Well, consider it as a gift as well. You girls did a fantastic job after all."

Brenda couldn't refute Mr. Bennett's wonderful remarks anymore so we thanked him before heading out.

We were returning home after finishing yet another part time job.

"By the way, what mask are you going to use Anna?"

I glanced at the masks Mr. Bennet gave us and wondered. During the fourth night of the festival, a massive bonfire is held in the town center in front of the cathedral. Locals would dress up in their nicest attire and wear masks. Most of the masks consists of animals and it is not obligatory but a lot of people would still wear it. There would be music and dancing. This is normally the time for couples to dance or to seek a suitable companion.

The masks were that of a sheep and a cat. Although it is big that it covers the complete face, only a little area for the eyes and nose is provided. Some people wear it on top of their heads as well instead of covering their face.

"Anything would be nice, how about you?," I questioned Brenda instead.

Her wide dark eyes fluttered and she too glanced at the masks. My companion, Brenda Locke is the daughter of a seafood vendor and civil guard. Civil guards are basically like police officers that are a rank below than knights. We have been friends for as long as I remember and she is practically the closest friend I have. My Mother is friends with her parents thus I believe that is how I came to know her.

My social circle is not that big unlike Brenda. She has a bright and cheery demeanor which is opposite mine. She has curly black hair and lovely bangs that she abruptly trimmed. Like the other locals, she had healthy browned skin and freckles on her face. She is obviously attractive which is why she is surrounded with suitors.

"I want to wear the cat mask today, is that alright?" she inquired. The cat mask really looks fantastic on her so I nodded.

"Sure, I'll be wearing the sheep then."

We talked for a few minutes before parting ways and promising to meet in front of the cathedral.

I arrived home and prepared for tonight. I brought out a light purple dress that I got from a foreign vendor. It didn't cost much because it was a simple dress with a few laces and silk but I wanted to make a few adjustments. I got out my sewing gear and began adjusting the garment.

I merely altered the top half of the garment for it have some features. I added circular cup sleeves as it was initially sleeveless. I raised the dress and glanced in front of the mirror and grinned.

I realized that it was starting to become dark so I quickly changed into the dress. The light purple dress did a little flutter as I moved around. The concept of makeup is kept modest and natural ingredients are used. I pulled a little box which contained solidified red substance. I fashioned this multi-use pot from the petals of a red rose which was dried and pulverized finely into fine powder. I then combined essential oils that I got from the market. This is extremely convenient as I can use it on my cheeks, lips and eyelids. I made sure to apply gently as it is highly pigmented.

I gazed at my appearance and patted myself. Simple things like being dolled up makes me exceptionally thrilled and excited, after all, it is not everyday that we get to dress up.

For my hair, I'm thinking about letting it down for tonight. I rarely let my hair down since it would get in the way when I work. I brushed the long strands of my hair and took the flower crown that my mother prepared a week earlier. It was created from violet flowers and my mother personally made it for me to wear tonight.

Remembering my mother, I took my mask and knocked on her door. I heard footsteps before her door was opened. My mother was dressed neatly as usual and I frowned when I discovered she didn't get ready. We would usually go out together during this period so I was puzzled why she didn't prepare.

"Are you not going to the bonfire?"

We have been so busy this last few days that I decided to buy something for her when we go out. For a second she seemed bewildered, then realization dawned her face.

"I'm sorry sweetie, I forgot to tell you that I had an appointment tonight unfortunately I won't be able to join you."

"Oh, ok. I'll just meet with Brenda and I'll get you something . . ."

I was honestly upset but she was so busy this week as well because of the bakery and orders. We stood like that in momentary stillness then I heard my mother sigh.

"I'll make it up to you, I promise."

My mother reached forward and grabbed my shoulders. I don't know if I was overreacting but I noticed something weird about my mother.

Night arrived upon the town and it was vibrant as ever. Pretty lanterns dotted the streets and houses. Stalls and stores were still open and the road was packed with plenty of people. Joyous voices and laughter filled the town as they sung and drank their praises because of the cheerful occasion. The market area was unusually busy with people buying sweets and trinkets.

I wore my mask on top of my head so it would be simpler for Brenda to find me. I intentionally brushed the stray hair brushing my face. I noticed a few folks staring at me so I hurriedly approached Brenda and the group when I spotted them.

"Wow! There seems to be more people this year!"

"I know right? I heard that there are a lot of tourists who come to join the event."

"Really? No wonder there are a lot of interesting faces."

"Brenda, we should go to the stall over there and check out those pins!"

"Sure! Anna, why don't you join us?"

I was supposed to nod when I caught the penetrating gazes of the group behind the smiling Brenda. An inaudible sigh escaped my lips when I swiftly shook my head.

"I'll join you later, Brenda. I still have to look for something to buy for mother."

I noticed her face fell so I instantly brightened my smile and hurriedly excused myself.

I made my way through the crowd and leisurely strolled about. A lot of attractions are projected to surge the week-long festivities. There is a circus set up by a group of nomads, theatrical shows from the capital, and different carnival activities.

I located an empty bench and sat down. I lift my mask to my head and stared blankly.

The preceding encounter reminded me yet again of my lack of social skills. Although I was eager to make acquaintances and be more sociable, I still lack the conviction to do it.

I believed that I would have it easier since I grew up here but there are still significant disparities that made it harder for me to socialize. First, my physical appearance is different with that of the actual born natives. Even if this town is considered a trading port therefore there are more likely to be foreigners, mingling with the other locals was different. I didn't feel like an outsider because of how they ignored me but it was because they were cautious of me. Foreigners in this area are supposed to be wealthy merchants so the other kids were wary of me even though I explained that was not the case but no one approached me except for Brenda.

I groaned once again and closed my eyes to tightly to keep myself from feeling self-pity.