Chapter 18: A Fiery Competition

The town of New Haven was buzzing with energy. The usually peaceful streets were lined with stalls, streamers, and performers preparing for the annual Festival of Flames, a celebration of fire magic, martial prowess, and the spirit of adventure. Colorful banners fluttered in the breeze as vendors shouted to passersby, tempting them with grilled meats, sugary treats, and fiery performances.

Ryuto, however, wasn't feeling particularly festive as he trudged through the crowd with Nina, Celeste, and Roland in tow.

"Why am I here again?" Ryuto grumbled, trying to dodge a stray child waving a flaming baton.

Nina, ever the ball of energy, grinned and hopped in front of him, walking backward while she spoke. "Because, Ryuto, this is the biggest event of the year! Plus, I heard there's a fire dance competition, and I entered us."

Ryuto stopped in his tracks, staring at Nina as if she'd just said they were going to wrestle dragons barehanded. "You what?"