L O C A T I O N : center aisle , fireflight festival . S T A T U S : closed , made for clive eros .
THE NIGHT SKY SHINES BRIGHT with fireflies , dancing around and giving light to the festival . it’s as if they know exactly what to do and how , something nicholas wishes he knew too . his attire is dark , hiding himself while also looking the part . it’s a ridiculous affair , a ridiculous idea -- and yet , there is a part of himself having fun . the music , the laughter , it’s a better upbeat than when smallpox had traveled through the kingdoms . a bit of ale in his belly has calmed his nerves and eased a burdened mind , letting him enjoy what small attributes he can . the king will make idle small talk and smile as if he is a common man . yet , he is not and no festival will change that . all the fireflight festival has brought him are empty opportunities and the dangling of a forbidden future in his grasp . he will bask in such a thought for the night , but nicholas finds it cruel .
he whisks his way throughout the crowd , eyes set on a darkened part of the marketplace void of others . no one will bother him and if they do , can he shake them off as a commoner would ? as much as he would prefer , nick decides it best to stay quiet . the sound of flutes has him gazing around , interested to watch . it’s then he spots a few people wearing masks , dancing around in a circle . a joyful action , he’s sure , but then another in a mask catches his gaze . off to the side , not where he was originally looking -- but nicholas can spot powdered skin and a familiar silhouette . not skipping , no , though he hurries in pace to investigate . ❝ no mask can hide your beauty , ❞ he speaks in hushed tones , smile bright as he finally faces them . ❝ hello , clive . ❞
