C114 After the Rain

Spring came quietly that year.

The city, once soaked in shadow, now glimmered under soft sunlight that spilled through the trees. The streets smelled of new blossoms and clean air — a rare peace Riku had never imagined he’d live to see.

At the far edge of the city, the mansion no longer felt like a fortress.

Its heavy walls had opened up to the sound of laughter.

Arun stood in the garden