As the flute ended with a soft, calming melody, all the water strings lined up with the dancers, then they flowed back into the lake with almost no ripple.
The ribbons hovered for a final heartbeat, still glowing brightly, then they descended smoothly, merging with the surface without a splash, then the blue light faded into gentle ripples that lapped at the shore.
The crowd immediately applauded the dancers as they bowed and began to leave.
Aoi skipped to Benjamin. "It seems you liked the performance."
"No."
Aoi's eyes broadened as she looked up to him, wondering what went wrong.
"I didn't just like it, I loved it," Benjamin smiled.
"Hey! Don't scare me like that!" Aoi hit his chest playfully, her fingers spreading across the fabric of his kosode with a light smack that carried more affection than force.
Her blue eyes sparkled under the lantern glow, and her cheeks were still flushed from the performance and the proximity to Benjamin.
