After dinner, Lariette and Ruediger stepped out of the makeshift restaurant. The crisp air of late autumn welcomed them back, carrying along the scent of smoke and spice.
Staying close to each other, Lariette's cheeks were rosy from the cold. She admired the lights. The lanterns swung gently from the trees, casting golden light across the festival grounds.
"The bonfire is in five minutes, I think," said Lariette, beaming as she looked at Ruediger, "Hehe, finally~"
"Finally. It's a pity we missed it before, but we can do it tonight."
Humming, Ruediger eyed Lariette fondly. He put a hand across her back, pulling her closer. They smiled at each other as they walked to the bonfire, wanting to make up for the missed opportunity[01].
The other visitors, clad in coats and jackets, also rushed to the massive bonfire at the center. Its flames crackled, rising high into the night.
"Round the fire, hand in hand! Come dance with joy across the land!"
