The Fair

It was finally the day of the alchemy fair. Lots of people from all over Ashborne came to see new things in alchemy.

Lyra and Elias got there early to set up their booth. They brought science stuff, books, and materials. Lyra's hair was crazy from working so hard getting ready.

"We'll change how people see alchemy," Lyra said with a fierce look in her eyes. "Our new research and methods will show how powerful alchemy can be."

Elias grinned as he tried to keep up with Lyra's energy. "I know we'll make a big impact," he said confidently. "With your smart mind and my steady hands, we can do anything."

The alchemy professor stopped by. "Your table looks great," he said, looking at their displays. "You'll make us proud today."

But then he teased Lyra: "Just no bombs this time, okay?"

Lyra's face went red, but she ignored it, her mind racing with ideas for the day.

More students arrived to set up booths. Lyra saw Lilith and the Sanguine students. But they treated Lilith with respect now, like they were afraid of her power after her show at the tournament.

As they passed, Lilith gave Lyra a secret little wave and smile.

Then Clara bounded over with her new boyfriend Jareth. "This is one of the best alchemists I know!" Clara told him about Lyra.

Lyra shook Jareth's hand politely.

Elias urgently checked his watch. "We have to hurry, the judging starts soon!"

Lyra nodded fiercely. It was time to get to work perfecting everything.

Lyra's hands flew as she made last minute adjustments to their displays. Elias carefully checked that all their vials and instruments were perfectly arranged.

"We should do a practice run of the demonstration," Elias said, wiping sweat from his brow.

Lyra nodded distractedly, her mind consumed with the steps they'd need to follow. Carefully, she began combining liquids from different vials into a small glass beaker.

Elias leaned in, watching her work with concentration. "Don't forget the neutralizing agent," he reminded her in a low voice.

"I've got it, I've got it," Lyra muttered, already reaching for another bottle.

The liquids in the beaker began to bubble and smoke. Lyra's eyes went wide. Had she missed a step?

"Uh...Lyra?" Elias took a step back, raising his hands defensively.

The smoke grew thicker, obscuring Lyra's face. She waved a hand in front of her, squinting to see through the haze.

Suddenly, a small explosion rocked the beaker, spraying foul-smelling goo in every direction! Lyra shrieked and ducked behind the table as gooey globs splattered all around.

"Dammit Lyra!" Elias shouted, shielding his face. "The professor warned you!"

The smoke began to clear, revealing Lyra sheepishly peeking over the tabletop, goo dripping from her disheveled hair. She grimaced at the sticky mess coating their entire booth area.

That's when the judging bell rang, signaling they were out of time to clean up. Judges would be arriving at their station any second...