After the explosive cheers of Rin's victory slowly faded, the festival organizers moved to prepare for the final cultural performance of the closing ceremony.
There were fireworks to be launched.
Noble sponsors to be acknowledged.
And one final act.
Me.
I stood behind the large stage curtain, hidden from view.
Distant voices called for the next segment. Layla's voice rang through the crystal amplifier, calm and professional.
"To conclude our festival's final night... we present a special musical performance. A tribute, composed and sung by one of our own students. Please welcome—Ashen Crimson."
A pause.
No claps. Just silence.
And then whispers.
Yes. That Ashen.
The cold one.
The stall runner.
The warrior who kept to himself.
I stepped onto the stage, alone.
The light above dimmed.
A single spotlight followed me as I walked to center stage, where a crystal orb floated mid-air—a sound amplifier, enchanted to carry every note, every breath.
