The next day arrived with the promise of departure looming just a day away. Luke woke early, a sense of anticipation tugging at him. He and Ilyrana had been guests of Mayor Sherman for some time now, and before they left Esbakan, Luke decided it would be fitting to spend his last full day with the man who had offered them such warmth and hospitality. Ilyrana, of course, chose to accompany him, feeling equally indebted to the mayor for his kindness.
As they made their way to the mayor's residence, Luke wondered what the day would hold. Mayor Sherman had insisted on hosting a quiet, personal farewell gathering. When they arrived, Mayor Sherman greeted them with his usual jovial demeanour, but there was a touch of sentimentality in his eyes.
"I thought we could spend the day a bit differently," Mayor Sherman said, leading them out toward a small, neatly kept garden behind his home. "Something calming, and perhaps reflective."
