The festival was alive. Colorful stalls filled the streets of Sorriso, the scent of spices mixing with roasted meat, while flutes and drums made people smile.

  Lukas walked among them, still wearing the uniform stained from his last culinary trial. People came up to him — some patting his shoulder, others whispering softly:

  — You’re incredible, kid…

  — Congratulations, Fernandes! Never seen anyone do that with such simple ingredients!

  — He’s one of us… finally, someone from the people!

  The commoners smiled, moved. Servants looked at him with bright eyes. For them, seeing a “failure” rise up was a reason to feel proud.

  But not everyone shared that feeling. From a higher balcony, a group of young nobles laughed.

  — Hahaha… look at that! The short failure turned into a cook now.

  — These commoners get excited over anything… even a Fernandes without a proper seal.

  — For them, any crumb is a victory.

  Lukas heard it — but didn’t stop. He just smiled faintly, that cold curve that mixed irony and hate.

  Then, a familiar voice called out:

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  — Young master! Young master!

  Le?ncio came running, his face red, his accent as tangled as ever.

  — Here… the thing you asked me for… between the lines… after the Valkyrie trial… Magnum… finally finished it.

  Lukas raised an eyebrow. — The old primordial, huh?

  Le?ncio cleared his throat nervously. — But… he said… he wants the fifty gold reis you promised… since he finished ahead of schedule.

  Lukas’ smile widened slightly. — As cunning as ever. That primordial is just as deceitful as I remember.

  He took a breath, placing a hand on Le?ncio’s shoulder.

  — Thank you, Le?ncio. Take the day off. Go flirt… or do something else.

  Le?ncio’s face flushed even redder. — Y-Yes, young master! — he stammered before disappearing into the festival crowd.

  Lukas walked down a dimmer path, leaving behind the laughter, music, and smells. He crossed a narrow alley, away from the merchant forges and noisy vendors.

  At the end stood a secluded forge. The sound of hammering rang like an ancient bell. The walls were covered with lunar runes — almost erased by time.

  Lukas stepped inside.

  — Hello… I see you’re well, Magnum. Or should I say… Primordial Elf of the Moon.

  The blacksmith lifted his head. He was short, but broad-shouldered. His silver beard hid most of his face, and his eyes… weren’t human eyes. They were the eyes of someone who had seen ages come and go.

  A crooked smile curved his lips.

  — Hmph. So, the little Fernandes came to collect what he asked for.

  End of Chapter 28