Jedi Brat!
As the seasons shifted and the world prepared for the inevitable turn of time, a special celebration took root among the people of Veridia. During this fleeting period, entire communities would gather for a cherished tradition: the Burning of the Trees.
Decorative trees, having served as symbols of hope and life throughout the month, were now fading and beginning to wilt. These trees, cherished in homes, temples, and communal spaces, bore the weight of the past season's joys and challenges, their branches cradling memories of laughter, triumph, and even sorrow.
Before their final purpose was fulfilled, the trees were adorned one last time in bright ribbons, imbued with personal tokens, heartfelt wishes, or messages of gratitude for the passing year. Then, in a grand, collective ceremony, these trees were carried to the coastline, where they were stacked into pyres. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the pyres were set ablaze, their flames roaring into the night, kissing the stars above.
The spectacle of fire was mesmerizing: the trees crackled and popped, releasing bursts of ember-light that danced like fireflies into the cool evening air. The roaring flames, reflected in the dark waves of the sea. The act represented the necessity of endings to make way for new beginnings. The trees' return to ash symbolized the renewal of life, the clearing of old burdens, and the embrace of the unknown future. Even in death, there is creation.
As the fires burned, the festival transformed into a vibrant celebration of movement and light. Fire dancers, clad in flowing garments streaked with luminous dyes, performed intricate routines with blazing staffs, spinning chains, and handheld flames.
Above the flames, floating lanterns drifted skyward, carrying the wishes of the people into the heavens. The lanterns were crafted from translucent, shimmering papers that caught the light of the bonfires.
The fireworks burst across the sky in radiant cascades of color, their luminous trails painting the heavens. Explosions of crimson, gold, and sapphire rained down from above.
Later, as the fires burned low, families and friends would gather at the pyres to collect the sacred ash, a prized substance believed to carry the blessings of renewal and the wisdom of the past. Carefully they would gather the remnants into small jars or pouches, to be prepared for its many purposes. Some would scatter it across fields and gardens, trusting in its power to enrich the soil and ensure bountiful harvests in the seasons to come. Others would mix it with oils to create sacred ink, using it to inscribe protective symbols on doorways and tools. For many, the ash would become a personal talisman, encased in glass or clay pendants and carried as a token of hope and transformation.
As the final embers dimmed, the crowd lingered in the soft glow of the firelight. They feasted, sang, and shared stories, their voices blending with the crashing of the waves against the shore. Bonds were kindled alongside the flames, and practitioners would mark their goals for the future.
This seemed like the perfect place to bring Loomi. Braze had planned everything with care, setting out a large, plush blanket on the cool sand just far enough from one of the bonfires to enjoy the warmth without the sting of heat. He'd brought along a basket brimming with treats he was certain she'd love: her favorite snacks, a variety of drinks, and even a few surprises tucked inside for the evening. Nestled among the supplies were a selection of small fireworks and a handful of delicate paper lanterns.
After making sure everything was just right, Braze carefully placed two pillows on the blanket—one for Loomi and one for himself. The makeshift picnic spot had a cozy charm, the flickering firelight casting soft, golden hues on the sand around them. Satisfied, he settled down, glancing over to ensure it was all as inviting as he'd imagined.
"I brought marshmallows and chocolate with crackers," he offered with a warm smile, gesturing to the basket. "You know, for s'mores. If you're up for it." His gaze lifted briefly to the wild, colorful displays of fireworks overhead, as a touch of excitement washed over him before he looked back at her and a more awestruck sensation washed over him. "It feels like it's been forever since I've seen you."
With a gentle gesture, he extended his hand toward her, fully aware that her legs might make sitting down a bit of a challenge. "Here, let me help. I made sure it'd be comfortable for you." His voice softened, his marvel at her presence evident as he took in her long hair. "Your hair's grown so much," he said with a note of awe, "How have you been?"
This moment wasn't about the bonfires or the fireworks for Braze, but rather sharing a small, perfect slice of time with her, as Loomi was the light of his life and the rest of the galaxy could wait.
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