Chapter 1657 Getting A Break
Old Town of Yorksland was a famous cultural site with a history of thousands of years. It was also a relatively well-preserved ancient city in the country and a popular attraction for tourists.
Riley deliberately brought Vivian to the monument’s square for the performance because she knew the girl liked lively places.
“Vivi, do you want to change into something else? The fashion show has no special rules. You can participate as long as your clothes are pretty,” Riley suddenly suggested as they passed by the display window of a boutique with a dazzling array of traditional clothing.
She knew Vivian would be keen to have a look since the latter loved fashion design.
After she cast a quick glance at the boutique, Vivian followed her in obediently.
Half an hour later, the two women exited the establishment wearing exquisite traditional costumes.
“Ms. Cooper, how do I look? Only unmarried women from wealthy families would wear this in ancient times.”
“Wow, really?” Riley was delighted to see Vivian finally smiling.
Together, they walked toward the venue in their new outfits.
The duo arrived to see many tourists had already gathered at the square, which was actually a bluestone floating stage in the middle of the lake. A bridge as old as the ancient city perched above the water.
Countless models dressed in traditional costumes were on the floating stage displaying their attires.
“Vivi, look. They look beautiful, don’t they?” Riley asked as she pointed at those women.
Vivian nodded. “Yes, indeed. Are they all from the same agency? Did they come here solely for the performance?”
“No. The companies specializing in manufacturing traditional costumes hired these models for the fashion to market their clothes,” Riley explained as she glanced at those women who seemed like professional models.
Upon hearing that, Vivian finally understood.
They then went to the bridge and found a spot to sit down. Riley, being a meticulous person, even took out a sketchbook from her bag and gave it to Vivian.
“Here. You can draw anything you like.”
“Ms. Cooper…” The latter was touched by her thoughtfulness.
After they settled down, Vivian started to scan a model that caught her eye. However, something else attracted both their attention.
“What’s that?” Riley was beyond surprised as she saw those unfamiliar Jetroinian traditional outfits.
The crowd also started discussing fiercely as well.
The fashion shows in Old Town had always been about the local traditional costumes because they were the perfect representation of the country’s ancient history. Yet, suddenly, costume designs from a foreign country showed up.
What nonsense is this?
The crowd was overwhelmed with discontent.
Right then, a man wearing a suit went on the stage with an entourage behind him.
“Hello, everyone. I’m here to announce that the Cultural Affairs Bureau is holding a seminar here today. I’m sure all of you are flustered by the unexpected surprise. Consider this rare and precious international fashion show a treat from the bureau.”
It turned out those people were from Cultural Affairs Bureau.
They probably decided to hold their seminar at the same venue after seeing the great turnout.
Instantly, the dissatisfaction on the crowd’s faces was replaced with friendly expressions. As such, they started watching the fashion show joyously.
Everyone had shown the best side of their temperament.
Riley understood the situation as she was also a staff of the official department. She comforted Vivian who had stopped sketching.
“It’s fine. It’s just a few more costumes. After all, it’s a good thing for you. Keep drawing.” She caressed the latter’s head gently.
Vivian lowered her head and continued drawing.
Shortly after the announcement from the official, models from other foreign countries such as Turlen and Hawen appeared. Even alluring belly-dancers joined the show.
The atmosphere became even merrier.
The crowd grew as more people came to witness and enjoy the visual feast while Vivian remained engrossed in sketching.
Ring… ring.
Suddenly, Riley’s phone rang, and she answered immediately. “Hello.”
“Ms. Cooper, where are you? The director wants you to go to Old Town right away to attend the trade seminar organized by the Cultural Affairs Bureau. Many overseas guests are already there.” It was one of her colleagues.
Trade?
Riley could not wrap her head around it as she glanced at the models on the bridge.
“What do you mean? Isn’t it just a normal fashion show?” she asked.
“Of course not. We made an international announcement about today’s fashion show. Now that period costumes are back in trend again worldwide, many big companies are conducting research on countries with a deep historical and cultural background like ours to find out exactly which countries have the most popular designs. The overseas guests are here for this purpose,” the colleague exclaimed in exasperation.
