After a little while, it became obvious that their laughter had evolved beyond mere amusement at the prank. They were laughing because, after everything that had recently happened it felt incredibly good to feel good. They were laughing because they were alive, because they had each other, because even in the darkest moments there could still be light and joy and friendship.
Their laughter gradually subsided into occasional chuckles and contented sighs as they settled back into their seats, the oppressive atmosphere that had filled the vehicle now completely dissipated. Aziel looked at Arthur with a warm smile, his eyes bright with the afterglow of shared mirth and the satisfaction of a successful mission to restore his friend's spirits.
