The sun filtered through the canopy in shimmering golden ribbons, casting warm light over the Grove. Dew glistened on the petals of night-blooming flowers that were just beginning to curl shut, and young shoots stretched awake toward the sky.
Lira walked slowly along the stone path, basket on her arm, her fingers brushing tops of soft moss. She felt peaceful—more peaceful than she had in days. And behind her, steady as ever, walked Renkai.
He carried two small watering vessels infused with elemental balance, the mist swirling gently inside them as if waiting to be released. His steps were quiet, but she could feel him there, close enough for the warmth of his presence to brush her back like a soft breeze.
"Let's start with the sunlotus patch," Lira said softly.
"After you," he murmured, and his voice held something warm, something only for her.
