starter for @setslitanies !
Though Alm had been in Eidolon for a while, he still felt like he didn’t belong. At this point he had come to accept that he leaves when whatever power brought him here decides to let him leave. There was no use thinking about that now.
He couldn’t help himself, though. He thought of his friends back in Valentia, the kingdom he had just inherited, uniting Valentia which was something that was truly impossible. He wondered if the people would allow someone else to rule while he was away. Is my kingdom tearing itself apart right now? Are my friends dying for the idea of me? Was it all worth it?
He sat down, feeling defeated and burdened by his wandering mind. A gentle tune, carried by the breeze, reached him. It resonated so strongly with Alm that for a while he thought he had imagined this tune, only to realize that no, someone was playing music. It sounded of longing and confusion, much like how he felt.
He wanted to know what the source of this music was. Was it some kindred spirit? Was it someone from Valentia? He had to know in any case. He took off, following nothing but his own senses.
It had become a chant of protection over the years, though in reality, their songs could aid anyone but themselves. It was the life of him and his sister -- one where they could feel danger but not ward it away, give blessings to others and not each other. At least, aside from much greater things. All the same, a melody and a dance along with it had become soothing over the years. Ninian’s footsteps and a graceful smile on her lips as he played by a dim fire, brief so not to bring up visible smoke.
It was a gift to Ninian, more than anything. He realises that, in a human body once more, he is falling into the old habits of their years on the run together. A yearning for a time that had passed, that could never come again.
He pauses, stiffening slightly at the sound of footsteps. Cautiously letting out a few more notes, he turns his head to look at the visitor -- not someone long here, by the looks of him. He smiles bashfully, lowering his flute. “You startled me.”
