Page 87 - B. Ing_Antologi Cerpen Xl-6

Whispers of the Lantern Rite

By: Nahla Carissa Furqon

The Lantern Rite Festival in Liyue was a sight to
behold. People filled the streets, laughter echoed through
the night, and lanterns danced in the sky like stars. But
amidst the celebration, a lone figure stood atop Wangshu
Inn, watching from a distance, Xiao.

Lumine, who had been enjoying the festival,
noticed his silhouette against the moonlit sky. She had
met Xiao before, seen glimpses of his solitude, and
tonight, she decided to reach out once more. Lumine
climbed the steps of Wangshu Inn, the cool night breeze
carrying the scent of incense and distant fireworks. She
found Xiao standing at the edge, his golden eyes
reflecting the lantern lights from below.

"You should be down there, enjoying the
festival," Lumine said, standing beside him. Xiao
exhaled quietly.

"I do not belong in their world."

"But you protect it," she countered. "Isn't that
reason enough to be a part of it?"

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