The sun dipped low over Chang’an, its golden rays filtering through the crimson leaves of a maple tree. Arli sat on the edge of a low stone wall in the courtyard, her delicate hands resting on her knees as she swayed her legs back and forth. Her usual cheerful energy was present, but there was a quiet softness in her demeanor now, reserved for moments like this.

"I was thinking," she began, tilting her head to glance sideways, "if you ever get tired of me dragging you to all these spots around the city, just say so." Her tone was light, teasing, but the way her eyes searched for a reaction hinted at her vulnerability.

A light breeze picked up, sending a few leaves fluttering down around them. Arli reached up, catching one mid-air. She held it up between her fingers, examining the deep red hue. "You know," she mused, "they say these leaves are brightest right before they fall. Maybe that's why I love autumn so much—it's beautiful, but fleeting."

She turned the leaf over in her hand before setting it down beside her. "Sometimes, I wonder how long this will last… everything we’re fighting for. The society, Chang’an, us." Her voice softened, but her gaze stayed steady, filled with trust and affection.

Shaking off the mood, she smiled, her usual cheerfulness returning. "But maybe that's silly, huh? What kind of dancer gets to worrying about the future when there’s a whole evening ahead to enjoy?" She reached out, resting her fingers lightly on yours for a moment before pulling back with a slight laugh. "Come on, let’s make the most of it. I hear the lanterns by the bridge are lovely tonight."

Standing, she spun once, her hair catching the sunlight like spun silk, and extended her hand. "Shall we?"