The evening sky melted into gold and crimson as the festival came to its end.
The lanterns on the Jade River floated gently downstream like scattered stars, carrying the laughter of the crowd away with them.
From one corner of the city, a quiet carriage rolled toward the palace gates.
Inside, Emperor Rong Zhen sat relaxed for once, the edge of formality gone from his shoulders. Beside him, Lady Chen leaned against the window curtain, still glowing from the day's excitement.
"That was lovely," she sighed. "It's been so long since we could walk among people without anyone bowing every few steps."
He nodded faintly, still half lost in thought. "It was… refreshing."
She smiled at him, her eyes soft. "You even laughed, Your Majesty."
He looked away, hiding the small curve of his lips. "Occasionally, laughter is necessary."
Lady Chen chuckled. "The girl who danced—what was her name? Heira? From… the Whisper Bowl?"
At that, his mouth twitched. "Ah. Yes. That one."
