It was a beautiful evening. The sun had begun its decent, though the light yet remained unchanged. The air still, yet a far cry from stifling. On the barely there breeze could be heard the indistinct chatter of Amaurotines finishing their tasks for the day. Some called farewell to colleagues, others, to friends who had come to join their journey home.
Two such figures made their way down the busy street, and into a series of side streets that, though not a particularly faster route to their destination, provided privacy. It was for that reason the two personages chose this route—for all the citizens meant well, sometimes even Azem needed a break.
Not that there weren’t other advantages of a secluded and private route, Azem thought to herself. Emet never allowed himself to relax when others were around. The slight smile on his lips as he regaled her with his latest venture in the name of the Convocation, could only exist because no one but her was around to see it.
In a fit of whimsy (a corruption Emet blamed her soundly for), Hythlodaeus had convinced them to join him on the roof to watch the sun set. Well, he’d only had to convince Emet to join him on the roof. Azem had thought it splendid idea, and all but dragged Emet up after her.
As he watched his dearest friends, Hythlodaeus couldn’t help his smile. They made quite the pair, his Melí and her Hades. Though, a rather unlucky pair for those who had not known them growing up. To them they must appear a confusing match. But Hythlodaeus had grown up with them, and he understood just how well they worked. Sure, there were the odd moments of friction, but they seemed genuinely happy, and that’s all Hythlodaeus could ask for.
Even as he enjoyed the happiness of his friends, a small part of him shied away. He loved his friends dearly, and wanted nothing more than to continue to help them achieve their lofty goals—and yet a part of him, a small part he fought to keep buried deep, knew the bittersweet sadness of having what one wanted—tantalisingly close, yet forever out of reach.
That they were friends was enough, he told himself as he shoved those traitorous thoughts and feelings into the deepest part of his soul. He genuinely was happy, and he’d be damned if he let some misguided thought of something else ruin all he—they—had achieved.
As the city tucked itself in for the night, its tired denizens snuggled up and ready for the sweet dreams they readily expected. Nary a one knew what was to come. The cool evening air, tranquil as the city tucked itself in for the night. A peaceful moment before the nightmare begins. These three dear friends, the weave of their fates tangled & strong, enjoying one last peaceful evening before the end. For on the morrow will sound the knells heralding the advent of the Final Days.
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