The rock platform rose slowly, grinding softly against the cliffside before locking into place against the city wall with a faint tremor.
Luciel glanced at the surface beneath his feet, wondering if he should give the Rock Tortoise a spiritual hint—perhaps teach it to form a proper stone platform or even a ladder next time.
"Finally back," Elara exhaled as she stepped down from the platform.
Standing on the city wall, she gazed at the faintly glowing house nestled beneath the Star Tea Tree.
Buzz—
The tree shimmered to life as if to greet them. A wave of emerald light spilled from its branches, bathing the back of the Rock Tortoise in a tranquil glow. The star-dotted leaves glistened like a piece of the night sky, a galaxy blooming right before their eyes.
"Now's exactly when the Star Realm opens," Luciel murmured, glancing at his watch. By coincidence—or fate—it was the first of the three nightly openings.
