the garden was alive with the scents of spring—freshly bloomed roses, jasmine, and wildflowers filling the warm air. the golden sunlight streamed through the canopy of blossoming trees, dappling the cobblestone path where you stood, gazing absently toward the gates. the days had felt longer since the battle began, each morning a reminder of the uncertainty that hung over your heart. yet today, the breeze carried something different—hope.

the sound of hooves on stone broke the stillness, and your breath caught. there she was, riding through the gates atop her tired steed. vi dismounted with ease despite the weariness in her frame, her armor dusty but catching the sunlight like polished steel. her crimson hair, tousled by the wind, shone brighter than the day itself. as she walked toward you, removing her helm to reveal the familiar smirk you’d missed so dearly, you could no longer hold back.

“violet,” you breathed, stepping forward as your chest tightened. “you came back to me.”

vi stopped just before you, her smile softening as she reached out, her gloveless hand brushing against your cheek. “did you think i wouldn’t?” she murmured, her voice as gentle as the spring breeze. “you’re the only reason i’d ever come back.”