Night had fallen over the Empire, but in the Imperial City, darkness did not exist that evening. Hundreds of lanterns floated in the skies, like eternal fireflies, and two stars especially shone in the firmament: one in the east... another in the west. Ancient sages called it the Night of the Double Stars, an omen of eternal alliances.
After the ceremony, the court celebrated with moderation. But what the people did not see was the most intimate, most real... and most eternal moment.
Jin Long entered the nuptial chamber with slow steps, wearing a black robe embroidered with golden thread. In his hands, he carried a small sandalwood box. Inside, a pendant carved with two figures: a dragon intertwined with a crane. He placed it on the table, next to the burning incense.
