Her mother's action provoked strong feelings of frustration for Lila, who was angered. Her mother's response was to abruptly shut the entrance door, leaving Lila behind the threshold. Lila was not permitted to leave the cottage. She was extremely displeased by the outcome of the encounter. She angrily went to her room and threw herself on top of her bed, and as she lay there, she mutters "This is so unjust. I'm irritated with my living situation. I loathe my existence."
As she laid motionless in her bed, starring at the ceiling, she felt a creeping sensation of restlessness and boredom. Her attention was swiftly directed towards her window that showed the sun shining radiantly. She became curious about the activities taking place outside, specifically in the bustling marketplaces that she appreciated so dearly. She felt inclined to free herself from her confinement and observe the world.
As she arose and proceeded towards her closet, she took hold of a scarf, wrapping it around her head, concealing her fair white hair. She recognized this feature of hers elicited curiosity and was the subject of admiration for numerous individuals. However, she desired to blend in, rather than stick out. Her objective was to not garner attention from the public, but rather merge with the crowd and become indistinguishable among the populace.
Opening the nearby window, she scanned the vicinity, noting that her backyard was vacant. She then decided to execute her reckless plan to flee from her confinement. She clambered out of the window and jumped down to the ground below, landing nimbly on her feet. She proceeded to flee swiftly to the market area with a surge of exhilaration in her heart, reveling in the feeling of freedom that accompanied her escape. She felt thrilled that her mother had not become aware of her absence thus far.
Upon reaching the market area, Lila gradually decreased her pace. Her vision observed a lively gathering of people, purchasing, exchanging, chatting, and sharing light-hearted laughter. Her nose detected the enticing scent of spices, fruits, and flowers. Her ears picked up the sweet music of drums, flutes, and bells. As she absorbed these stimulating sensations, she couldn't hold back her smile and took pleasure in merging into the crowd's flow.
Her distinct beauty caught many people's eye as she made her way down the bustling market lane. Her attractive and striking features, including fair skin, radiant eyes, and slender physique, attracted the admiration of numerous males and the envy of a myriad of females. Numerous market vendors tried to persuade her to purchase their goods, but she politely rejected their proposals. She lacked the necessary funds to afford any of the merchandise on display, so she continued moving along the road.
As she scanned the market, she observed other women her age and even teenagers shopping, buying a variety of shiny and colorful accessories. Having collected many herself, she nevertheless found herself drawn towards the appealing and shimmering adornments. She lusted for the opportunity to possess them too. She went up to a man offering free cake samples and took a bite, appreciating the lusciousness and sweetness of the cake mixture as it melted on her tongue. Her satisfaction was noticeable as she expressed gratitude to the man before departing.
Lila's exploration of the market area was a delightful experience, as she embraced the vibrant ambiance of the region. Every sensory input, including the sights, sounds, scents, and tastes, enhanced her appreciation for her surroundings. For a brief period, she was transported beyond her troubles and anxieties, embracing a state of pure euphoria. She also felt at home in the invigorating scene that exuded an energy that felt appropriate for her spirit and soul.
As she lost track of the passage of time while immersed in the lively and entertaining atmosphere, Lila suddenly realized it was later than anticipated. This realization struck her with a pang of regret and sorrow, wishing she would have remained longer. Her excitement was soon replaced with angst about returning home and risking her mother's censure. She turned back to the streets and hurried to the exit, hoping her mom would not notice her missing from the household.
Lila proceeded through the dense forest on her way home, when her attention was caught by an injured creature. She was compelled to investigate the situation, so she stopped near the injured rabbit and crouched down, inspecting its condition. She used the power of her magic by emitting a radiant glow from her hands, mending its wound and making its eyes shine bright once more. She expressed her satisfaction with a bright smile and gentle affectionate stroking of its fur, before permitting it to exit the area and flee into the bushes. She subsequently returned home.
As she sneaked back home, she was highly watchful and cautious so as not to attract notice. Her mom would undoubtedly be enraged if she discovered she was out and about in the forest. She possessed a hatred for using her magic and forbade her from utilizing and using it outside, even though it had been passed down to her by her maternal grandmother. She believed it to be unsafe and unnatural, which could make her an easy target to their predator.
Upon arriving back in her room, she quickly locked the door behind her. Then, she hid her scarf under her bed alongside her footwear. She quickly changed into her pajamas and laid down on her bed, pretending to be asleep when her mother appeared at the door. Her mother breathed a heavy huff of indignation before exiting, leaving her alone once again. Lila experienced pangs of regret but also felt a sense of freedom. She was aware of the secret she was to maintain but wished to live her real self someday.
While she was sleeping, she had a dream that she was not the body she had inherited at birth. It contained a life in which she had total autonomy. In this dream, she could be free and use her magic without any constraints. She smiled brightly at the thought of having a life free from the stress of hiding and disguising her true self, as she slumbered peacefully.