The atmosphere at the candlelit dinner in the beautiful manor garden was wonderful. Galina and Megan brought up Saturday's picnic in Arcadia City's park again, and Shade smiled as he recalled it:
"When everyone gathered for meals in the past, it was either aboard the Radiance Messenger or at places that could accommodate many people, like Snow Mountain Hall or Fragrant Residence.
When we have time again, we should all go on a picnic together. The spring scenery in Randall River Valley is quite nice, or we could go see Vesta Woodland at the height of summer. If it feels too hot lately, then at this time of year, a short snow mountain camping trip to Fatumonst Snow Mountain would also be nice."
Galina gently wiped the corner of her mouth with a napkin.
"Actually, we could do all of those things. Shade, you're finally learning how to enjoy life."
Megan smiled as she cut into a steak garnished with broccoli using her dinner knife.
"Shade is probably the most boring person I know when it comes to life. Other than occasionally playing Rhodes Cards, his only pleasures are teasing Little Mia and... us."
The flirtatious but not overly suggestive joke put all three of them in even better moods beneath the candlelight. Shade set down his wineglass and leaned back slightly against his chair.
"Sometimes I think about what life will be like once everything truly ends, once we reach the ending we've all been hoping for."
He looked up at the starry sky. The stars above the outskirts were beautiful and bright, and the stars within the deep Night Curtain seemed to be watching him as well.
"I've gotten involved with so many women. If everyone lives together then, Number 6 and Number 7 Saint Derain Square will