Judgement Day Dances

A festival was declared in Forks — the first of its kind in decades. The mayor called it a "celebration of unity," but everyone knew it was more than that.

It was to honor her, Raiko.

Though the town barely understood what had passed, whispers of her deeds had already become folklore. Her strange powers, her beauty, her silence during storms — they called her the Lightning Saint.

Alice and Rosalie stood beside her on the edge of the town square as strings of fairy lights flickered above. Music drifted through the air, soft and hopeful.

"You sure you want to be seen?" Rosalie asked.

Raiko replied, "Tonight, I am one of them. Not above them."

Alice linked their arms. "Then let's make them remember this forever."

---------------

As the dance began, people formed circles, then spirals. Raiko stepped forward, not to lead — but to join.

Her movements were fluid, graceful. When she twirled, static followed. When she clapped, light pulsed from her skin.

The Stormwalkers mingled quietly among the crowd. Some danced. Some simply watched — their glowing veins dimmed in reverence.

Jacob appeared near the food stalls, chuckling. "She could probably make the entire town levitate if she felt like it."

Sam replied, "She could level it. But she's dancing instead."

---------------

As the night deepened, the music changed. A slow, ethereal melody floated out. Raiko stepped toward Alice.

"May I?"

Alice grinned. "You better."

They moved together, a duet of light and shadow — Raiko's elegance echoing divine origin, Alice's steps grounded and free.

Then Rosalie joined. The three moved as one, a triangle of bond and balance.

Some watching forgot to breathe.

Above, faint clouds gathered. Lightning danced across them without sound.

The sky was watching too.

---------------

When the music stopped, no one spoke. The silence was holy.

Then a single child clapped.

And the square erupted in cheers.

Raiko bowed deeply. Not out of pride — but gratitude.

----------------

Later, as the crowd dispersed, Raiko walked the empty square. Her fingers traced one of the glowing stones placed in a lantern.

She felt a presence behind her.

An elder woman stepped forward, wrinkled and gentle.

"My grandmother said the last time lightning danced with us like this, it meant gods were walking."

Raiko smiled softly. "And what do you think?"

The old woman touched Raiko's hand. "I think we're lucky this one dances instead of conquers."

Raiko nodded. "Then let's keep dancing."