(The Surprise Banquet Grounds, Leo's POV)
Leo stepped out from between the dim trees lining the path that connected his isolated mansion to the valley, his boots crunching softly against the gravel as he followed the faint glow of mana orbs that drifted toward the camp like guiding fireflies.
A faint breeze brushed against his face, carrying with it distant murmurs, soft laughter, warm aromas of wine and roasted spice, and the unmistakable hum of mana instruments playing a celebratory tune.
It took him only a moment to realize what he was walking into.
Rows of tents.
Decorations.
Lantern lights floating in the air like silver moons.
And dozens of familiar faces waiting for him.
His steps halted for half a second, surprise flickering openly across his face before instinct buried it beneath a calm, unreadable smile.
His expression softened into something warm, affectionate, practiced, the kind of gentle mask he had not worn in years.
