Kefálaio IX: Wind Blume Festival.

The icy light washed back the shadows of my past. I recall my mother abandoning me at the carnival. She said I could play freely, that's why she went somewhere out of reach. I obeyed her because that's what most good children do. I'm left with nothing but myself. It was exciting at first. Because there is no adult who would be upset if I did something wrong. After all, no one is watching me, I enjoyed myself being alone.

However, as time passed, I noticed the other children have their parents with them. It woke me from the reality that 'shouldn't I'm supposed to be my mother. So, we can enjoy this moment together?'

As I look at these children, I realize how fortunate they are to have their parents with them. My stomach began to tremble.

"Mom?"

That was the first time I found out that I'm all alone in life.

***

When I first opened my eyes. Within, a bright and blinding light glinted from the window's reflection. I discovered that I am currently in a room that is unfamiliar to me. When I tried to recall back what happened to me before, it came to me that I totally passed out. Although, I'm not aware of who brought me to this place. I'm kind of relieved that the one who took me is not a bad person.

But, until now, I've been chasing my breathing.

Is it because of my dream?

For a while, my gaze was drawn to the ceiling. I was thinking about my family in the other world. My mind became engrossed in the most profound question.

"Are they sad because I died?"

Did Mom cry because I was gone? Or is she now happy, because all of my life, all I could see from her was regret that she gave birth to me and let me live?

It's unfortunate that she appeared in my dream. My other self was still curious about how they were doing on the other side.

"I want to go home."

Let my tears flow into the pillow. I couldn't help but feel emotional. It's difficult to be alone in this world. Everyone is nice to me, but they won't be around forever.

"Glad to see you're awake—" someone walked into the room without knocking. "Why are you crying?! Are you hurt in any way?" When I came face to face with that person, she was dressed in a white dress with two curly pigtails. Based on her height and appearance, she is very familiar.

"B-barbara?"

She's the church's deity!

"Y-yes?! Wait, you know who I am?"

When she asked me the question, I panicked a little because, well, I know everyone here. After all, they are the characters from the popular game.

"I've heard rumors about you in the past. B-but I'm new to the city!"

"I assumed so. Mister Kaeya told me that they had seen you floating unconscious in the lake before. Actually, he was laughing because we saw you unconscious yesterday too."

My brows lowered slightly as I curled my lips.

Is that guy really laughing?

"T-thank you so much for bringing me here. If you didn't come and get me. I have no idea what will happen to me."

"It is my responsibility to keep everyone safe. You don't have to say anything about it. More importantly, how do you feel? Are you hurt somewhere?"

Physically, I'm fine, but emotionally, I'm not sure. Barbara, on the other hand, doesn't need to be aware of it. After all, my family problems and such are all in another world.

"I'm fine, and I appreciate your concern."

I sat in bed for a while. I thought I heard something outside. Something that is far from tranquil. For a while, my gaze was drawn to the window.

"Is there anything bothering you? I do not advise you to stress yourself. You should take some time off."

"I'm hearing noises nearby. Is something going on?"

"Oh! It's time for the Wind Blume Festival. Everyone is decking out the city."

Wind Blume festival? What happened all of a sudden? Isn't that too quick? I mean, there was nothing going on yesterday, and today?

My mind is really sinking into deeper thoughts. If there is a festival, should I try the in-game puzzles? The windblume event used to include balloon shooting and wind gliding.

Gasped. Then I'd be able to soar through the sky and fly?!

"I-I want to go to the festival."

Isn't it wonderful if I could do something like that? Fly around like a free bird.

"Are you sure? You're supposed to be…"

"I'm already fine. I was just starving at the time. Besides, I still haven't returned the customer's payment to Sara."

Barbara sighed slightly before forming a simple smile on her face. She appears to have decided whether or not to confine me here. But I'm hoping she won't make me stay any longer.

"Alright then. Perhaps I won't be able to stop you. If you're not feeling well, please look for me."

Barbara is so pure that I couldn't possibly disagree with her.

"I will do so."

"All right, then. Have a good time."

***

Following our pleasant conversation. As I previously stated, I went to Sara to deliver the customer's payment. Despite my tardiness, Sara compensated me with food. Even gave some mora for me to purchase items at the festival. The truth is that commission isn't all that bad. The monsters only make matters worse.

Besides, it's amusing that I ran into Scaramouche on the way. He and I slept together. I mean, we literally slept together. I personally saw him, and he is absolutely adorable. To summarize, he is attractive.

Even though I've already pledged my love to Xiao, I can't help but simp for him.

"Tatadaa!"

"Klee! "Did Acting Grandmaster Jean tell you anything about not being naughty?"

K-klee?! I turned to look at the person who sounded like he was scolding someone from a distance.

"I'm sorry, it was just. I'm looking forward to the festival! There are numerous decorations and festive games. Klee wants to try everything!"

My jaw dropped when I saw Klee, who is so adorable, standing and conversing with someone who isn't one of the game's main characters. I couldn't ignore it, as my legs walked on their own. I can't afford to ignore Klee!