Kelly Martinez glanced at her watch, proclaiming in a loud voice, "Two minutes and twenty-eight seconds."
A gasp of astonishment echoed around them.
This was the best result in history, she was a sure winner even without competing against anyone.
The shopkeeper handed a lantern to Charlotte Aria. The answer to the riddle was written on the backside of the lantern.
Disregarding Charlotte, the Keeper turned and warmly presented Aubree Groove with the Phoenix Flower Lantern.
"A hundred percent accuracy, Miss, you have broken the record."
Dressed ethereally, the young lady stood amidst the worldly chaos, untouched by the griminess of the hustle and bustle, with thousands of dim lights flickering behind her.
She remained silent, quietly accepting the exquisitely gorgeous Phoenix Flower Lantern from the hands of the shopkeeper.
