A-01’s eyes grew even whiter as she gazed at the Mirka ice- carved figurines. Tiny works of art made from ice, each with its own intricate, unique shape. Upon seeing A-01 and Tom, the Plersizian vendor standing behind the stall greeted them with a deep bow. A-01 returned the gesture and Tom made a hesitant attempt to do the same.


<< I’ve been expecting you..>> said the vendor as he offered A-01 a small box. She eagerly took it and opened it to reveal a design of a flower.


<< This flower is called a peony >> she said to Tom with excitement.


<< I know..>>


<< Are they as beautifully crafted and unique in your world as well ? >>


Tom knew the flower from school, but its colors had faded from his memory.


<< Yes >> he answered hesitantly. He didn’t want to say anything that might wipe the smile from her face.


A-01 pulled out a small pouch and handed it to the vendor. << Vegetable seeds. Just as I promised >> she said, winking sweetly. The vendor took it gently and thanked her in his own language. Then, he picked up another small box and offered it to Tom.

<< Our dear guest, I took the liberty of crafting something for you as well. I don’t want any payment. This is my personal gift to welcome you >> Tom took the box and opened it. He pulled out an ice carving that depicted two human figures dancing. << I read in a book my grandmother once gave me that it was about your kings and their dances. Something that from the first moment fascinated me >> the vendor explained.


Tom stood still.. expressionless, confused. He didn’t even know the vendor, and yet, he was being given a welcoming gift.


<< Is everything alright? >> asked the vendor, looking at him intently as if expecting some kind of praise from the human.


<< Yes, yes..>> replied Tom, shaking his head to bring himself back to the present. << It’s wonderful. You are very talented. Thank you.. Umm.. how do you say thank you ? >>


The vendor responded with a long string of vowels and consonants interwinned with each other.


<< Maybe I’ll learn it .. another time >> Tom joked and clasped the Plersizian’s hand, bowing slightly.


The ice carving of the dancing couple, along with the vendor’s impressive artistic skill and kind nature, left Tom in awe as they continued their stroll through the market.


<< Where did you.. get books ? >> he asked.


<< You gave them to us.. Years ago. Books that introduced us to everything about humanity.. Even the fictional stories..>> A-01 explained.


Screams interrupted their conversation, grabbing their attention. Tom tensed up, overwhelmed with agitation, and began searching for anything that could serve as a weapon. Plersizians were running toward a specific direction, where A-01 was already looking with a smile.


<< What’s happening ? >> he asked nervously.


<< The Icy Chase have started! Let’s go! >> she shouted excitedly and started pulling Tom toward the commotion.