Gu Ming followed the stream of people into Lanqi Park, and the festive energy instantly enveloped him.
The park was brightly lit and bustling with voices.
All sorts of Pet Beasts followed at their masters' sides, some hovering low in the air, others darting by their feet. Together with the boisterous crowd, they formed a vibrant, living tapestry.
In the night sky, hundreds of Celestial Lanterns had already risen like specks of starlight, slowly ascending and adorning the night sky in a dreamlike, fantastical display.
He found a quiet corner on slightly higher ground with an open view.
From his Beast Taming Space, he took out a plain white Celestial Lantern.
By the distant light, he focused his concentration, lifted his brush, and solemnly wrote the simplest of wishes on the lantern's paper surface.
"May my family be safe and well in the coming year."
The tip of his brush carried his concern, and even more so, his hopes for the future.
