Xavier leaned against a pillar, shaking his head with amusement. Cali stood beside him, cheering them like hooligans, while Luna clapped softly to the rhythm.
Even the elders looked pleased.
Arthur and Liliana stood together, smiling like proud parents. Amon looked fondly at Elara, but scoffed the next second upon seeing Aegon.
Beside him, Samuel drank with a grin on his face. It wasn't a grand royal celebration he was familiar with, just a small gathering. Yet the warmth in the courtyard made it feel fuller than any palace hall.
Samuel wished time would stop here so he could spend eternity in this peaceful atmosphere. This was more intoxicating and addictive than any alcohol he had ever tasted.
He wanted to drown in it, but the sense of emptiness, as if something was missing, gave him clarity. Arnold wasn't here. His friend who had accompanied him in his worst moments wasn't here.
