With the festival season in full swing, Ren joined his friends at a local celebration filled with lanterns, music, and laughter. Mei, Takumi, Sora, and several other familiar faces surrounded him, each bringing their unique energy to the night. The air buzzed with excitement as people danced, sang, and shared stories.
In the midst of the joy, Sora noticed Ren standing quietly by the lanterns, watching the festivities with a contented smile. Sora approached, nudging him playfully. "What's with the quiet reflection, poet?"
Ren chuckled, shaking his head. "Just... taking it all in. I've missed this."
"You don't have to keep looking back, you know," Sora replied, his tone gentle. "This is your moment now."
As Ren looked around at his friends, laughter filled the air. Mei caught his eye and waved him over, a warm smile on her face. They joined in the festivities, Ren finally allowing himself to embrace the joy around him without the lingering shadows of the past.