The lake was quiet when Nero suggested taking a boat out onto the water.
Khione glanced at him, then at the lake stretching beneath the artificial stars.
"A boat?" she asked.
"Why not?"
She gave him a look that suggested she found the idea a little ridiculous. Nevertheless, she lifted one hand toward the water.
Frost spread across the surface.
The lake rippled as ice rose from its depths, gathering and shaping itself under her control. Within moments, a small boat had formed, its smooth crystalline body shimmering beneath the starlight. It was simple, elegant, and entirely made of ice.
Nero inspected it with approval.
"Not bad."
Khione stepped into the boat. "You make it sound as though you expected me to fail."
"I would never."
"You're smiling."
"Am I?"
She ignored him and extended her hand.
Nero took it, stepping aboard. The boat rocked gently beneath their combined weight before settling into the water.
Khione guided them away from the shore.
