Night had completely settled over the festival.
From the shrine courtyard, the entire street below looked almost unreal.
Lanterns floated above the pathways like tiny moons, while strings of warm bulbs stretched between the buildings, sparkling against the darkness like countless little stars. The distant music, laughter, and temple bells blended into a soft evening melody.
Chen stood quietly, looking at the scenery.
His eyes reflected the golden lights.
"They look like tiny shining stars…"
He smiled faintly. But the smile disappeared almost immediately. Something felt wrong to his arms and himself. A strange emptiness settled somewhere in his mind.
Chen frowned.
"Why do I feel like I've forgotten something?"
He turned toward Xu Jin. Perhaps looking at him would remind him. Xu Jin was standing beside him, staring at the lanterns as well.
But he, too, suddenly frowned. His expression changed.
"I…"
He looked at Chen. Chen looked back at him, both in a puzzled state.
