The evening breeze passed through layers of leafy shade, dispersing the heat left over from the afternoon. The harsh white light faded from the horizon, slowly giving way to a gentle wash of orange.
The sun sank, clouds unfurled across the sky, and a lingering dusk spread over the whole of the reborn Treasure Island.
Li Xiang lay in a swaying hanging chair and stretched leisurely, extending all four limbs.
Before she knew it, she had spent an entire afternoon here doing nothing.
Bracing herself against the chair, Li Xiang rose and planted her feet on the soft sand. Gazing at the gentle afterglow on the horizon, she couldn't help murmuring wistfully.
"Days when you don't have to fight are just so nice."
"A quiet, ordinary life really is the best."
Just as she was enjoying the evening breeze, a lazy, cheerful voice came from behind her.
"Little Li Xiang~ Had enough of hiding out here and slacking off?"
Gen strolled over, his eyes curved in a smile. He stopped beside Li Xiang and gave a little wave, his tone light.
"The village party's about to start. Everyone's waiting for you, so come on over."
Li Xiang came back to herself and turned toward Gen's gentle smile, nodding softly.
"Got it. Let me tidy up a little, and I'll be right there."
She straightened her clothes and brushed the bits of grass and dust from their edges, then walked beside Gen toward the center of the village.
As they walked, everything around her looked transformed.
The whole island was lively and vibrant, brimming with the bustle of everyday life.
Villagers and members of the Science Kingdom divided up the work, methodically setting up the party grounds as laughter and cheerful voices filled the air.
Not far away, Nikki stood in