The thousands of lanterns drifted higher, turning the night sky into a shining ocean of gold.
Ignis leaned against the stone railing of their high balcony. He watched the floating lights with a quiet smile. Terravarous stood beside him, arms crossed, looking like a peaceful statue resting in the warm breeze. Velanor sat on the stone bench, tossing a silver coin into the air and catching it to the rhythm of the distant street music. Catherine stood a few feet away, her sharp eyes darting the highest lantern as it sailed toward the clouds.
Luna and Soltheia were still holding hands near the edge, speaking in soft whispers.
Kairos stood next to Seyana, his shoulder gently touching hers. The air was warm. The upbeat melody played on wooden lutes from the streets below lingered up to them, wrapping the balcony in a blanket of joy.
