Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism novel Chapter 248

While walking along the road, they attracted a lot of attention wherever they went.

Nearby, atop the stone bridge, Nolan and two student council members were using bamboo sticks to aid in recovering hats that had dropped into the lake.

"Nolan, take a look over here."

Nolan glanced sideways and spotted Violeta strolling amidst the crowd with a photographer.

She adorned a light blue traditional outfit, her hair casually fastened with a ribbon. Her complexion gleamed under the sun, and a faint smile played in her eyes as she conversed with Kaylee.

The photographer ahead was energetically directing their movements as well.

In the midst of the crowd, they were the sole wearers of traditional outfits, thus standing out and garnering considerable attention.

"Where did they find those outfits? They look quite impressive. At first glance, I thought she was an actress."

"I recall there's a traditional costume shop nearby. Perhaps they borrowed them from there?"

"It might not be. I recall that traditional costume shop doesn't actually rent out clothing ... "

Nolan stayed quiet, tuning in to their conversation nearby. He shifted his gaze away and resumed fishing hats from the lake. Eventually, he snagged one and passed it to the individual beside him, murmuring, "Don't throw things around next time."

"Thanks, Nolan!"

"No need for thanks," Nolan replied.

He stepped away from the bridge with the bamboo stick in hand.

The two student council members caught up from behind, "Nolan, where are you headed?"

Nolan smiled slightly. "To listen to the zither."

...

They eventually reached the zither shop, named Spring Haven.

A crowd had gathered outside, with many already participating in the challenge, and the melodic sound of the zither resonated from one side.

Both discordant and harmonious notes filled the air.

The photographer, acquainted with the zither shop owner, guided Violeta and Kaylee in through the back entrance.

After walking for a few minutes, they indeed felt a refreshing coolness ahead.

There was a small waterfall, or rather, a slightly higher water pool.

The photographer located an ideal spot for them, where Violeta posed for several photos, yet the photographer remained dissatisfied.

Kaylee casually suggested, "I think Vio could hold something in her hands, like a flute or a zither, in a very traditional style."

The photographer applauded. "You're absolutely right! Wait here, I'll go fetch the instruments."

He set down his backpack and dashed off.

Shortly after, he returned, holding a zither in one hand and a lute in the other.