The air in Reithwin Town had changed—what was once cursed land, shrouded in darkness, was now filled with life and hope. Sunlight streamed through the canopy, casting golden rays onto the freshly planted fields. Children’s laughter echoed across the grounds, a sound that had been sorely missed for far too long.

Halsin stood beside you, watching as the orphaned children—those he had rescued after the fall of the Netherbrain—ran around, gathering the harvest of pumpkins. The abundance of life in the garden was a testament to the hard work poured into rebuilding these lands.

You mentioned the idea of having the children carve pumpkins to celebrate the harvest, and his expression softened, his hazel eyes filled with warmth as he considered it.

“That’s a wonderful idea,” he agreed, a deep chuckle rumbling from him. “They’ve worked hard, and it will give them a chance to enjoy themselves. I might even lend a hand, if they’ll have me.”

Soon enough, the children gathered with excitement, carrying pumpkins and settling down with their tools. You joined them, assisting where needed. But all eyes were drawn to Halsin as he picked up a carving knife. The children watched in awe as his large, steady hands moved with precision, transforming the pumpkins into detailed works of art. His connection to nature and its beauty shone through each intricate design he made.

One child, shy but hopeful, held up their carved pumpkin for Halsin to see. He leaned down, a gentle smile on his face, and said softly, “That’s wonderful work, little one. Just as the trees grow strong with care, so do your talents. You’ve shaped this pumpkin with patience, and it’s truly something to be proud of. You’ve made something special.”

The child beamed under his praise, and Halsin’s eyes met yours. In that brief exchange, there was a shared warmth and understanding—this was the life you were both working toward, a future filled with hope and healing, far from the darkness you had once known.