The night sky was punctured with the lights of small exploding balls of flames, the magicians carefully controlling their creations in the sky before letting them go free, combining them with various illusions to offer a sky that was filled with glittering and colorful lights. A lot of concentration was needed, or else the remaining flames would be big enough to set whatever patch of grass or flameable object that was unfortunate enough on fire.

But for the people observing the beauty of the glimmering lights, it was a breathtaking sight, filling the merry souls with joy and happiness, regardless of where they might be within the Empire. Hubert had made sure of that as the new Emperor observed the hard work of his sorcerers, the shimmering lights reflecting in his eyes as he gazed towards the sky, a satisfied grin growing on his face.

But for a certain pair, resting in seclusion and away from the many people all over the land, it was an experience even more joyful as they regarded the colorful night sky, sitting close while warming each other from the chilling air.

"It is beautiful…", Edelgard muttered in awe as she let the warm and cozy sensation fill her while she lidded her eyes, a sweet smile gracing her lips as her hand instinctively took hold of Byleth's, not letting go of it as he, in turn, shifted his gaze towards her to see Edelgard looking back at him. She hummed contently, brushing the tip of her nose against his, earning her a quiet gasp.

She was not the only one vulnerable and open to the loving sensation as Byleth felt a wave of joy coursing through him, easily giving in to the longing as he gently placed his head on her shoulder, closing his eyes with the knowledge that he felt safe, happy…

…and that he belonged nowhere else than at her side. A genuine smile graced his lips, feeling another rush of feelings coursing through him as she intertwined his fingers with her own.

Edelgard silently watched him for a long moment before a glint appeared in her eyes. A sudden urge gripped her, growing more powerful with each second that passed as she raised her right hand to the air, a single wish going through her mind as she entirely concentrated on what small grip of magic she possessed.

Byleth opened his eyes in curiosity as he raised his head ever so slightly, seeing Edelgard close her eyes but without ever losing the smile on her face. A flame suddenly appeared in her hand, slowly but steadily growing into a small ball of fire, giving off a gentle glow until she released it into the air, letting it raise to the sky before shaping it into a certain form.

Byleth's eyes merely widened in awe as the ball formed into a small flaming heart, erupting in a bright light before Edelgard opened her eyes again, giving an unsure glance towards Byleth as she lowered her hand again, holding it to her chest.

But before he could find any words to describe the feelings that surged through him, he found himself within a hug as Edelgard suddenly embraced him with a growing smile.

"A happy new year, Byleth…"

And a happy new year to you as well! I hope you are all having a wonderful start ^^