♢♢♢♢
After finishing their meal, they returned to the plaza. Mirai insisted on visiting the spirit tree grove, where glowing petals drifted down like gentle snow. She twirled beneath them, laughing freely, while Louis stood still, watching her.
For the first time in a long while, the crushing weight of his vow, his cultivation, and his endless struggles eased, just slightly. He didn't know why, or perhaps he didn't want to admit why.
Niflheim's voice whispered within him.
"This girl… she may be the anchor you need. Do not dismiss her so easily."
Louis narrowed his eyes but didn't argue. He simply watched Mirai dance beneath the falling petals, her laughter echoing through the garden.
"Prince Louis! Please come with me, there are so many Spirits!"
"What? I can't see anything."
"You can't?"
Mirai hurried over and grabbed his arm.
"Please come!"
"I told you not to touch me!"
Louis quickly pulled his arm away, surprising her once more.
