The stars shine.

If Ward was with her in this moment, he would say that it wouldn’t compare to her Starshine.

Though she doesn’t think he’s ever seen a Wild Thicket sky. So clear and natural. Magical even.

“Nova?”

She turns her head towards Haze who is similarly laying on her back just staring at the night through the gaps of the trees. “Do you think we are making progress? Do you think what we do at the castle is doing anything?”

While Haze’s gaze is tilted upwards, Nova knows her mind is elsewhere. Clearing the witch name weighs heavy on her. They’ve spent a long time away from the Wild Thicket. Being back, even for a night, feels the closest to normal Nova has felt this entire time. The familiarity tempts her, whispers for her to stay. But they have much more still left to do.

“I think that we’ve convinced some key people. And so if we cannot directly influence others, they can,” she reassures.

Before meeting Ward and Aziza, she would have never imagined that anyone would change their minds about witches. She figured society would win and witches would forever be a dark stain. Knowing the true kindness in her sister, there was always this seed of hope in Nova, but she never allowed it to grow. She remained hopeful on the outside to not dissuade Haze, but she worried for her.

This is the first time that Nova truly felt hopeful that others could change.

“You think Aziza truly believes?” Haze wonders aloud.

Nova almost laughs. She stops herself before she comes off as rude. Though Haze would know she would never make fun of her or make light of her feelings, it’s just peculiar that Haze doubts the princess’ intentions. Nova doesn’t anymore. Not after seeing them together.

“One hundred thousand percent, Haze. The princess simply adores you.”

A soft smile forms on her lips. Nova’s favorite one’s of hers. Normally, she would be more skeptical of royalty, especially with ghe princess’ interest in Haze, but it’s that smile on her sister’s face that Nova just knows.

As if it is involuntary, purple mist emits from Haze’s hands and swirls and moves fluidly around them, dancing in the breeze.

Right before their eyes, her lavender gleams golden.

Yellow dust cascades onto the grass, lighting up the trees’ bark. The ground is now shining, sparking like the stars.

Even with being accustomed to Haze’s powers, it still completely and utterly stunning.

Haze’s normally dark eyes, reflects the golden color, and Nova is reminded on why that seed of hope never withered.

It’s because of her sister and the beauty of her magic.

———

(Rant moment: This will probably be the last post until Sunday because I have this huge group project due on that day. Two out of four people aren’t doing anything. 🙃 You would think you would feel some responsibility because other people depend on the work you are not doing. I’m having a fantastic time…….can it be winter break yet?)