**Chapter 5: Moonlit Serenade**

As they glided across the lake, the sound of the water lapping against the hull of the boat was like music to Mirani's ears. Ed sat at the back of the boat, his eyes fixed on the stars twinkling above, and Mirani felt a sense of peace wash over her. The air was cool and crisp, and she wrapped her arms around herself, feeling the chill of the evening. As they reached the middle of the lake, Ed stopped rowing and let the boat drift. The silence was almost palpable, and Mirani felt like she could hear the beating of her own heart. Ed sat back, his eyes closed, and began to hum a low, melancholy tune. Mirani's eyes widened in surprise as she realized that Ed was singing. His voice was deep and rich, and it seemed to blend perfectly with the sound of the water and the rustling of the trees. The melody was hauntingly beautiful, and Mirani felt a shiver run down her spine. As Ed sang, the stars seemed to twinkle in time with the music, and the world seemed to come alive. Mirani felt like she was a part of something magical, something that she would never forget. The song seemed to go on forever, and Mirani felt like she was lost in its beauty. When Ed finally finished singing, the silence that followed was almost deafening. Mirani applauded, her hands clapping together in appreciation, and Ed smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "You're a talented man," Mirani said, her voice barely above a whisper. Ed shrugged, his smile fading. "I used to sing in a choir back home," he said, his voice low and nostalgic. "I haven't sung in years, but something about this place...it just feels right." Mirani nodded, feeling a sense of understanding. She knew what it was like to feel a deep connection to a place, to feel like it was a part of you. As they drifted on the lake, Mirani felt a sense of wonder wash over her. She had so many questions for Ed, but she wasn't sure if she was ready to hear the answers. She looked at him, his profile illuminated by the moonlight, and felt a pang of curiosity. "Ed," she said, her voice low and hesitant. "Can I ask you something?" Ed turned to her, his eyes questioning. "Of course," he said. "What is it?" Mirani hesitated, unsure of how to phrase her question. But as she looked into Ed's eyes, she knew that she had to ask. "What are we doing here?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. "Why did you bring me to this place?" Ed's expression changed, his eyes clouding over like the stars on a stormy night. For a moment, Mirani thought he wasn't going to answer, but then he spoke, his voice low and mysterious. "You're here because you're part of a story," he said, his eyes glinting in the moonlight. "A story that's been unfolding for a long time. And I'm not sure if you're ready to hear the rest of it."