2.13: CELEBRATION IN EMPIRE MANTY
Yujun stared into nothingness as different memories poured into his head. "Aah, seems like I know who you are now," Yujun thought to himself as he looked at the ceiling. "I'm hungry," Yujun said, bringing his eyes to look at the two men watching him. "So?" the tall and lanky one asked, looking at Haru with pure dislike, with a hidden look of lust. "Feed me," Yujun said, pouting and landing a scrutinizing gaze on the one that asked the question. The lanky one stared blankly at Yujun, seemingly at a loss for words. "Just ignore him," the brawny one said, not looking at Yujun, or else he would be roped into a useless conversation.
Meanwhile, Yuan had already reached the location but didn't go out first as he waited for Wanda to scan the area. "The boss is not around, so it should be safe. Just don't kill any of the goons, or else my host would kill you," Wanda said. "I don't care," Yuan replied. "Let's wait till the boss comes. I'm sure it will be more interesting," Yuan said, sitting down and waiting for the 'boss' to arrive.
Ari's phone rang, showing an unknown number. She didn't hesitate to pick up. "Do you have him?" she asked the person over the phone. "Yes, I do, but I want a plane ticket for me and Haru," the person said. "Ailun, don't you think you're over-requesting? I gave you his address and a place to put him, but you don't seem to be satisfied," Ari said. "And you have to do it, or else…" the man named Ailun said and abruptly ended the call. Ari didn't like the overwhelming feeling that washed over her, and she despised being threatened. All she could think of was that day she wished she could rewrite. She pushed those thoughts away, knowing she shouldn't dwell on them, especially when she was about to get rid of her biggest obstacle once and for all.
Yujun woke up from his nap, feeling parched and hungry. He sat up but could do nothing but stare at the locked door. "Ahh, I guess it's time to move forward with the plan, don't you think so, Yuan?" Yujun asked, looking at the body by the door side. Wanda remained silent, and Lulu said nothing either.
The Empire Manty was alive with the rousing spirit of a festival, with the primary theme being the vibrant color red. Streets were adorned with swaths of crimson banners and garlands of ruby-colored flowers. Buildings and houses showcased elegant drapes and throws of scarlet fabric. The city square featured a towering statue of a renowned figure, dressed in a flowing robe of red, with thousands of red rose petals at its feet.
People crowded the streets, wearing brightly-hued outfits, elaborate masks, and feathered hats bursting with lively shades of red. Folk dancers, singing minstrels, and troupes of performers weaved through the thronged streets, adding to the cheerful atmosphere with their lively tunes and colorful props.
Vendor stalls lined the pathways, displaying bright crimson trinkets, toys, and souvenirs. The mouthwatering aroma of spiced red meat roasting over open fires filled the air, making the stomachs of the visitors rumble. Meanwhile, vendors offered overflowing goblets of tart red wines and fruity sherbets to refresh the visitors.
As dusk rolled in, the excitement heightened. The city square was illuminated with myriad red-colored lanterns and flickering
candles. The night sky was adorned with glittering fireworks, bursting forth in a crescendo of red sparks and flames. The festival-goers cheered and hollered, swept up in the warm embrace of joyous celebration.
The Emperor sat on his chair, looking at the empty throne room. "My wine," he said, and a servant placed it in his hand. He looked at the red wine and couldn't help but smile as the redness of the wine reminded him of blood. "My parents have begun their journey. Let's see who destroys who first," the Emperor said, taking a sip of the wine before signaling his servant to inform his people to party like there was no tomorrow. The Emperor stood up from the throne for the first time in a long while. "Brother, I didn't know you were going to come," the Emperor said as he bowed, offering his respect to his senior brother. "What has happened that makes you hold a festival? Even the commoners and nobles seem clueless," the senior brother asked, looking at his brother with curiosity. His brother wasn't the type to party, no matter the reason. Whatever the reason was, the senior brother was happy it gave his brother a reason to celebrate. But what his brother said next ruined the mood. "Father and mother have met, and they will soon be at each other's throats. I feel like Father is going to kill Dad this time, so I am celebrating in advance," the Emperor said in a natural tone, which seemed to irk his senior brother. "You shouldn't celebrate an event that is not good. It only makes you seem like a sadistic brother. Although I am quite disappointed, I shall leave you to your celebration. I hope you'll change before it's too late," the senior brother said, and he vanished, leaving only the Emperor who snorted at his brother's words. "Brother, it is too late. The hatred is already engraved in my body," the Emperor of Manty said.