Chapter 10

As the night fell, Hope slipped into a plain dress, her excitement barely contained. She had spent every day since waking up in Evelina’s body dealing with politics, social drama, and suspicion. As I said before what’s the use of being a noble if I can’t even enjoy a festival once in a while?

However, as she and Shiri carefully made their way through the corridors, they quickly realized one problem—the estate’s security was far tighter than expected. Every exit was guarded, and sneaking out unnoticed was nearly impossible.

Hope sighed. “This is harder than I thought.”

Shiri, fidgeting nervously, whispered, “Young Lady, maybe we should just—”

Before she could finish, the sound of approaching footsteps made them freeze. Turning around, they found none other than Salena standing behind them with her arms crossed.

Salena raised an eyebrow. “You shouldn’t sneak out like this at night, Evelina.”

Hope groaned. “Then why are you following us?”

Salena shrugged. “Because it’s dangerous. If something happens, you won’t be able to protect yourself properly.”

Hope shot her an unimpressed look. “That’s exactly why you shouldn’t be here either. If something happens, I won’t be able to protect you.”

Salena smiled softly. “I have mana. I can protect myself.” Then, her expression turned hopeful. “So… let me join you.”

Before Hope could argue further, a deep voice interrupted them.

“So, where exactly are we going?”

The three turned to see Regas standing behind them, arms folded and an exasperated look on his face.

Hope groaned. “Now why are you here, Regas?”

Regas sighed. “As your older brother, it’s my responsibility to keep you safe. Evelina, sneaking out at night is reckless. What if you end up in danger?” He gave her a pointed look. “You should have at least taken knights with you.”

Hope rolled her eyes. “If I took knights, it wouldn’t be sneaking out, would it?”

Regas frowned but didn’t argue. Instead, he gave Salena a disapproving look. “And you—I thought you had more sense than to follow along with this.”

Salena smiled sheepishly. “I just wanted to make sure Evelina was safe.”

Hope sighed in defeat. “Alright, alright. Let’s stop wasting time arguing. We’ll miss the festival at this rate.”

Regas rubbed his temples. “Fine. But don’t go too far from me.”

With that, the four of them set off toward the lively festival grounds.

The festival was even more breathtaking up close. The streets were illuminated by lanterns of all colors, their soft glow casting a warm light over the excited crowd. Stalls lined the roads, selling delicious street food, intricate accessories, and beautiful embroidered fabrics. Performers danced to lively music, their laughter blending into the festive atmosphere.

Hope felt her heart swell with nostalgia. It reminds me of the festivals back in my world…

Shiri smiled at her. “My lady, this is your first time at a festival like this, isn’t it?”

Hope nodded, her eyes sparkling. “It’s amazing.”

Regas, however, stayed alert. “Don’t wander off too far,” he warned.

Hope waved him off. “Relax, we’re just enjoying ourselves.”

As they walked through the crowded streets, they stopped at a small open area where a group of performers had begun a play. The story was a dramatic tale of knights, love, and betrayal, and the audience was completely enthralled.

Hope found herself engrossed in the performance, her worries fading—until a sudden, bloodcurdling scream shattered the festive atmosphere.

A deafening roar followed.

The joyful music was abruptly replaced by terrified screams as a monstrous creature lunged into the crowd, its massive claws tearing through the festival stalls. People scattered in panic, pushing and shoving in an attempt to flee.

Regas immediately grabbed Salena’s arm. “Salena! Stay close to me!”

Hope’s heart pounded as she instinctively stepped in front of Shiri, shielding her. Her hands trembled as she clutched the sword of a fallen knight who had died protecting civilians.

This… This is real.

Her stomach twisted. She had never seen a monster before—not in this world. But thanks to Sir Roderick’s relentless training, her body moved on instinct.

The creature lunged toward her. Hope barely managed to dodge, swinging the sword in a wide arc. The blade struck the beast’s thick hide, not deeply enough to kill, but enough to make it hesitate.

Regas was fighting off another creature nearby, cutting through its legs in swift, precise movements.

Salena, however, was nowhere to be seen.

Regas turned sharply, eyes wild with panic. “Salena—Salena! Where are you?!”

Hope’s breath hitched. She was just here—!

Shiri clung to her sleeve. “M-Miss, don’t go! It’s dangerous!”

Hope bit her lip, pushing down her fear. She was already trembling from adrenaline and exhaustion, but—

I have to find Salena.

Steeling herself, she turned toward the chaos and ran.

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