Two figures stood on opposite sides of the Cassien river.
The Ehenar festival was nothing but a whisper in the distance. The third and largest sun, Os, finally set beyond the horizon. Its glow held true for only a few more precious moments before giving over to its nightly counterpart. The moon's glow shone white light on the water's surface chasing away the last of the sun's orange glow.
Coara and Jiian stepped out onto the water's surface. The water stopped flowing, perfectly still as they walked towards each other. Their bare feet did not disturb the water's calm. He wore the night sky wrapped around his shoulders; she wore a dress the lightest shade of grey.
Jiian offered his hand. Coara accepted. A soft glance and a comfortable smile.
They moved as one, dancing across the river. Swift and elegant as they glided upon the river's surface. Jiian spun her round. Coara's dress flared out into a circle before he pulled her back into his embrace. She the moon to his night. Her smile widened. They exchanged quiet words of care and affection as they continued dancing. They danced in circles across the river's width.
The final turn ended. One final embrace. Neither wanted it to end.
They stood in each other's arms for a few more moments. Jiian stepped away and bowed low as he kissed Coara's hand. With a smile he released her and she turned away.
She looked down. "Will you fight?" Coara whispered.
"Do you think I could sit back and watch?"
A smile touched the edge of her lips. "No." Her smile fell. "But you will have to choose whose banner to fight under." Coara looked over her shoulder.
Jiian opened his mouth and closed it. He looked off into the distance. "I can't choose." He took a breath and looked back.
"The hardest decisions hold the most meaning."
Jiian waited just a moment before walking to the other side of the river.