It wasn't like normal flames. It gave off no heat, only a soft, ethereal glow like moonlight dancing in smoke form. It crackled with gentle hisses, and every now and then, sparks shaped like petals floated upward into the sky.
"What's that…" Ruby whispered, her voice barely audible.
Julian had frozen too, his eyes wide in wonder. "Wife… is that fire alive?"
Aria, noticing their reaction, chuckled softly. "It's called the Soulfire. It only appears during this ceremony. The elders say it listens to love, not words. It glows brighter when there's sincerity."
Julian glanced at Ruby, then quietly squeezed her hand.
"Look, in our village, new couples usually take part in this ceremony—it's a way to show sincerity between partners," Aria said, her tone playful but warm.
Just then, a few people nearby called out her name.
"Aria! Who did you bring this time?"
