**Back to the Village**
The group returned to the village, carrying the gem they had retrieved from the frost giants' lair. They met with the man who needed it and handed over the gem.
"Thank you so much," the man said, his eyes shining with gratitude. He paid them handsomely, and Igor took the lead. "In the morning, we'll head back to Nothra," he said. "Finish whatever you need to do here tonight."
Thrain clapped Alex on the back. "I'll be at the tavern if you need me."
Yuki turned to Alex with a sparkle in her eye. "Come dancing with me tonight at the village festival."
Alex raised an eyebrow. "Wait, there's a festival? Alright."
**The Festival**
As night fell, Alex dressed up and headed to the outdoor festival. He arrived to see the village transformed with colorful lights and festive decorations. The air was filled with the sound of music and laughter. He spotted Yuki, dressed in a stunning white dress, standing under a lantern.
Alex approached her, his breath taken away. "Yuki, you look so beautiful."
Yuki blushed, her cheeks tinged with pink. "Thank you, Alex. Now come on, let's dance."
She grabbed his hand and pulled him onto the dance floor. The bards played lively tunes, and the villagers danced joyfully around them. Vendors sold an array of delicious foods, and the night air was filled with the scent of roasted meats and sweet pastries. The whole scene was magical, and Alex felt a sense of peace and happiness that he hadn't felt in a long time.
**A Special Moment**
As they danced, Alex noticed a sudden commotion and heard someone scream. His instincts kicked in, and he began to move towards the sound, but Yuki stopped him.
"Wait, look," she said, pointing.
Alex turned to see the man they had given the gem to kneeling before his beloved. He held the gem up, its light catching the lanterns' glow.
The woman gasped, her hands covering her mouth. "Yes!" she cried, leaping into his arms as the crowd erupted in cheers.
Alex looked at Yuki, her face illuminated with awe and joy. He felt a warm surge of affection and took her hands in his. "Yuki, if you ever want to get married, we can do it once we get Lyra on board."
Yuki's eyes sparkled as she looked up at him. "I'd love that, Alex. But let's do it in the new world when we have a new life."
Alex smiled, pulling her close. "Alright, Yuki. We can do that."
**A Night to Remember**
The rest of the evening was filled with laughter and joy. Alex and Yuki danced until their feet were sore, enjoying the music and the festive atmosphere. Thrain joined them for a drink, toasting to their successful quest and the adventures yet to come.
As the night drew to a close, the village quieted down, and the stars shone brightly overhead. Alex walked Yuki back to their lodgings, his heart full. The promise of a future together gave him strength and hope.
**Looking Ahead**
The next morning, as the sun rose over the snowy village, the group prepared to head back to Nothra. Alex felt a renewed sense of purpose. They had overcome many challenges, and there were still many ahead. But with Yuki, Thrain, and Lila by his side, he knew they could face anything.
This concludes Chapter Thirty-Eight.