The music from the great hall spilled into the night air in warm, golden notes- laughter, clinking cups, the rustle of dancing robes and hasty footsteps. The sort of joyful chaos that always followed a wedding once the ceremony was over.

Himmel slipped onto the balcony when no one was watching.

He’d smiled through the feast, congratulated the bride and groom twice, told three children they were very brave for approaching a hero, and had already stopped Heiter from sneaking a third bottle of wine under the table. Eisen was still inside, politely enduring the enthusiastic thanks of the groom’s extended relatives. Frieren… well, she had wandered off somewhere after the first course.

Typical.

The night was cool compared to the warm, crowded hall. A soft breeze tugged at his hair and the embroidered edges of his cloak. Lantern light from inside flickered behind him, but the balcony itself was dim, bathed in moonlight.

Himmel rested his hands on the stone rail and let out a slow, quiet breath.

From up here, he had the perfect view of everything. The festoons of flowers, sparklers being waved by children, the bride laughing into her new husband’s shoulder. The way color and light blurred together into something warm and alive.

They’d saved these people last year- drove out the demon threatening the village, stayed long enough to make sure it wouldn’t return. He hadn’t expected this. A banquet. A celebration in their honor. And certainly not a wedding invitation.

But… he was glad for it.

The cool night air carried the scent of roses and fresh bread. Somewhere below, someone struck a lyre and struck it badly; Himmel smiled despite himself. He leaned forward slightly over the stone railing, soft strands of his hair brushing his cheek.