The festival of Goddess Melaniah was supposed to be peaceful.
Every year, healers, apprentices, and mages filled the city center with lanterns carved in the shape of lotus blossoms, symbols of restoration and new life. Music shimmered through the air, crafted through floating wind chimes that sang with mana.
The entire territory glowed with soft hues of white and pale green, light magic dancing like tiny stars overhead. For the first time since arriving in Magnus Territory, the children were allowed to attend the event.
Dezyne had insisted it would do them good.
"Let them experience joy," he'd said. "Even if only for a day."
Devon agreed.
Elias had looked so excited.
Drake tried to hide it, grumbling, "Festivals are boring," but his tail had been wagging.
Alina practically vibrated with fire-dragon energy.
Zera clapped at the lanterns.
Xinzhen stared at everything with reverent fascination.
