don't know what to believe, but i know i'm alive
಄—The ruins of the ancient Gelmorra were vast - networks of caves, systems of tunnels and dark crypts carved deep beneath the Twelveswood. There were as many traps to be found in those ruins as there were deep-earth dwelling enemies, and yet Getou was determined to complete his reconnaissance work. He and his allies would be pushing forward into the Deepcroft soon, and he wanted to take a look at the surrounding territory before launching headfirst into an ancient crypt pulsing with unearthly energy.
During his exploration, he had come across an artifact of interest - it looked to be some sort of mirror, with imperfect silver marred by black blotches within the glass. Its frame was a fragile-looking rope of copper and silver, with a thick patina that coated the twisted metal vines. His contracted Voidsent had responded excitedly to the artifact, and so Getou had examined it.
The relic reacted tiredly to his touch, as if there simply wasn't energy enough still hosted within to conjure its full effect. It glowed but once, and nothing had seemed to result from the interaction. He wrapped it carefully within a host of *ofuda*, talismans to seal and transport it. If he could stumble upon it, it was feasible to say that other hands, less cautious or less equipped to contend with supernatural events may do the same.
It would need to be analyzed and placed somewhere more secure. He happened to keep company with a knowledgeable Duskwight, and he would query her insight, first.
It wasn't until he'd left that catacomb and come to the surface of the Twelveswood that he spotted Noctis on the road up ahead of him. Yet, the profound implications of the young royal's presence in Eorzea would not occur to Getou all at once.
Recognition raced across Getou's features as his eyes widened in a moment of surprise, followed by a smile that unfurled like a banner of welcome across his affable mouth. Of all the unexpected encounters, this reunion surely had placed among the foremost of candidates!
Getou nudged at the Ahriman that floated in front of his shoulder, dismissing it from a defensive vigil as he stepped in front of it to approach Noctis with a warm air. The Voidsent (one of Getou's earliest acquired "replacement 'Curses,'" as the composition of apparitions and disembodied entities had invited the sorcerer to utilize creative methods where his innate abilities were concerned. ) thus averted its critical, singular eye from Noctis' regal bearing.
Ahriman were no substitute for Satoru's perceptions, but they were uniquely gifted at perceiving the arcane energies of the star, and in his absence during Getou's task of exploring Gelmorran ruins - it was a decidedly welcomed capability.
Noctis Caelum — some time ago, a chance meeting had transpired between himself and the younger royal, where their roles had become somewhat reversed. Noctis had been the wanderer far from home, and Getou had the pleasure of playing both host and combat companion.
Together they had clashed with foes from Noctis' realm, commissioned repairs for the Regalia, indulged in a little fishing - Noctis' favorite pastime, and underwent a trial to take the prince's measure at the behest of the wind divinity familiar with Noctis' journey. Noctis was a capable, resolved individual who held his bonds in high esteem - traits that Getou appreciated in a person. He was amiable, but he hadn't once sought to exploit those around him and didn't seem to harbor designs of malice towards anyone.
Though Noctis could be taciturn at times, his companionship was offered in sincerity and goodwill. Getou got along with him well enough, and held his potential in high regard. While their cooperative expedition was brief, their friendship was still bearing the test of time and distance with steadfast grace.
Well, perhaps less in the way of distance, as the moment suggested.
He closed the distance between them, and clapped a hand fondly on Noctis' shoulder, as if prior to touch, some disbelief lingered in his mind that his intrepid friend could really have returned to Eorzea.
Noctis spoke, and Getou affirmed the weight of his words without revealing how dire they sounded in his mind.
Had something happened in that distant, sister world?
What about that melancholy, serene young woman he'd seen in the field of light that had enveloped Noctis the first time he had departed? Was she all right?
Was Noctis?
❝Alive? Of course you are.
You're back a little sooner than I expected, but I never said I was complaining.❞
He glanced him over subtly, as if the situation could be gleaned from the surface. The man's expression - his posture, anything that would provide an explanation. Inquiring as to why he was back already might prove a demanding topic, and so he would let Noctis decide how much he desired to divulge, and when.
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