Undying sun. @soarikaros - Tumblr Blog

𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐐𝐔𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐘'𝐒 𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐋𝐌 𝐀𝐂𝐐𝐔𝐈𝐑𝐄𝐒 𝐀 𝐍𝐄𝐖 𝐒𝐇𝐀𝐃𝐄 𝐎𝐅 𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐏𝐈𝐓𝐄 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐀𝐑𝐑𝐈𝐕𝐀𝐋. It's color an iridiscent white that brings peace despite Vigethos' playful petulance in his feigned complaint to retort. Lapis lazuli irises soften as the little chimera makes himself comfortable on her lap, satisfied with his protest and ready to fall into Morpheus' arms. ◜What you asked was done. See? You could do this on your own.◞ A gentle smile poses 'pon roseate lips as aureate lashes flutter close, a sigh is exhaled through her nostrils in complete relaxation under your presence and the small feline's on her lap.

Ever the observant one you are. Fleurdelys opens her eyes in silence, a sign of her careful consideration. It is not surprising to her that her words would be given importance, specially at a crucial moment like it was earlier. But to be asked directly about it, that is quite the bold move. One she deeply appreciates, for that is symptom of growing trust and confidence both. ◜Once, I was in a moment of my life where I put all my hopes and dreams that I was on the right side of the story. That I was not the monster I believed I would be were it not for a condition being met.◞

Was she Imperator's Resonator or Leviathan's? That question marked her entire journey ever since she had finally found a chance to make a difference in her life, stagnant and solitary as it was. To cease the anxiety of being humanity's enemy. To halt the gnawing feeling that she doesn't deserve to exist. To do the utmost to prove that she's human too, even if born from divine skin.

◜In the end, it did not matter. When lost memories were recuperated, I knew that I did what was right— that my heart was always true to who I was even against the preordained fate I was born with.◞ Seraphic gaze turns to look at you, soft and gentle as the true Blessed Maiden's was when she handed Tyrvine over to her. The pinnacle of all past aspirants to become Imperator's chosen Resonators stored on the very sword that both threatened to take their lives and restored it both, out of the Master of the Heaven's goodwill. ◜Different as the cases may be, I could not help but remember vividly that crucial moment of my life. Thus it was my decision to entrust it to you. So that you do not have to go trough the same anguish I once had.◞

To say that Phainon didn't expect Fleurdelys to answer is an understatement. It was a personal question, one that could spark painful memories. He keeps quiet when she decides to share the context behind those words, what she went through to reach to such wisdom. Sky blue eyes narrow in silent thought as she speaks, though they widen little by little as her story continues. How could it be that someone who bears a holy name and is revered as a holy maiden ever be a monster? The curiosity threatens to give away the worst of him, to ask more where he feels that there is more to the story than what she lets on, but ultimately refrains from doing so.

"Fate has the strangest whims, doesn't it." A harmless commentary is offered at the very notion that it was because of it that she could have been a potential monster. But she wasn't. It was in her power to go against what was preordained for her— and there is nothing more honorable of her than that. Absentmindedly, his hand reaches out to cover one of hers. His eyes soften as he looks at her with a gentleness he feels she would need in such a moment. "You are strong, Fleurdelys. I am happy that you continued your fight until reaching the conclusion you wished for."

Just like he, in the end, did in order to reach to a mutual understanding with the prince of Kremnos.

Unbeknownst to him, a familiar soul is watching from afar their little exchange. A soul that he has known in his youth, a soul that he can only look up to and no less than that. A comfortable silence sets between them, a squeeze is offered to her hand as his smile widens a tad. "Thank you for sharing a little piece of your story with me." How happy it makes him, to know a little more about her. For the first time, he feels as if they are connecting in a different way than they have until then. He wants nothing more than to see that line of development grow more in the future, should Fleurdelys allow it to happen.

#.keepsake #I have to save this

What a distinct notion to receive a small item like this that is so revealing, of you of all people. You whom would rather keep to yourself the deepest thoughts that linger in your mind. Something within the holy maiden stirs back to life, a sentiment she often feels with the you who you have yet to meet properly. The prospect that as you and her stand, would be willing to do so much for her is... heartwarming. ◜I did not know that there is so much in your heart.◞ There is a hint of amusement in her voice, a small jest if you will from one soul to another that, slowly but surely, become more and more intertwined with one another. Ultimately, cornflower irises soften as she directs them back at you. A smile that does not manifest to her lips, but ever present through the crinkles on the corners of her eyes. ◜I cherish the sentiment, Phainon. Know that I reciprocate it in return. Everything from this I can do and more that was not scripted... it shall be done, should you ever need it.◞

☥ @soarikaros sent a bingo card ♥︎

𝐓𝐎 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐒 𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐀𝐒𝐂𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐅𝐑𝐎𝐌 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐘 𝐁𝐄𝐆𝐈𝐍𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐖𝐀𝐒 𝐍𝐎𝐓 𝐒𝐎𝐌𝐄𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐒𝐇𝐄 𝐖𝐎𝐔𝐋𝐃 𝐀𝐍𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐏𝐀𝐓𝐄. It only hits the saint now that this is where everything starts, where you begin to walk the streets of Okhema not solely as a holy knight that guards its gates, but as a fully-fledged Chrysos Heir. Still unbeknownst to what awaits you, still unaware of the hardship and trepidations you will encounter along the way, only to subject yourself willingly to a much longer struggle that will last for millions of cycles. This is one such beginning, perhaps a moment of respite like the calm before the storm where you learn and navigate through this world, honing yourself as the man now laying in wait in the shadows as he fights against the darkness of this world on his own.

So similar to how she chose to take matters into hands long before she learned that she was the one who provoked the descent of the second Dark Tide, when she fought alongside those who were willing to lend their helping hand to her in the name of the Blessed Maiden, but also Imperator. Only to make everything dissipate like dust in the conception of her own Sonoro Sphere of the fallen Avinoleum, where she would wage war against the false divinity that caused everything in the first place and where she would seclude herself in the Inverted Tower for decades to come. Her story much shorter in comparison to yours, but not any less meaningful to know what you endure. That is why... she will take part in everything that you allow her to, be there for you as she promised.

In the end, everything concluded in the most positive way thanks to your sharp understanding and your iron steel heart that bleeds for others even without knowing so. Her assistance merely moral support if it could be counted as such. Now, in the wake of celebration at the entrance of the Januspolis temple she looks at the few flowers that managed to survive, soon to wither away like all flora that dares to take the first step to bloom into this harsh world. A soft cry captures her senses, thus lapis lazuli irises move towards the source with still curiosity. Vigethos alongside other chimeras have come to celebrate too, and so the little gray feline came to her. Recognition shines in his sky blue eyes despite only meeting once, as if he had already chosen her as his familiar.

Fondness softens her stellar eyes as she picks the little chimera up in her arms, cornflower irises looking at him through albescent lashes as she takes notice of the little flower he holds in his mouth. A chuckle escapes her own as she cants her head to one side. ◜Did you have that flower with you all the way from Okhema to bring it here, lovely Vigethos?◞ For there is no such flower that she could have seen in her way here, at least. Roseate lips curl in a gentle smile as the feline awoo's in answer, moving his head as if to pick it up. ◜So this is for me... how very sweet of you.◞ Cartethyia obliges and does as asked, whilst Vigethos nuzzles her affectionately in return. Finding it irresistable not to bask the little chimera in her affection, she tucks the flower behind her ear as she lowers herself to sit on the grass, delicate hands caressing his mane. ◜Thank you.◞

Only in books of fiction did Phainon expect to see things like "hoping in what your heart's telling you" to work, but somehow... it did. Mydei put all his heart into that signet he offered at first, so he did with the Deliverer tarot card. Only through uniting together under a same objective did the mighty Talanton acknowledged them, and most importantly of all— acknowledged him. Surreal as it may be, his will to protect this world, to carry everyone's wishes and make them come true led him to this moment. And so did the match end as even on both sides, with an even more surprising claim from Aglaea's part: two new Chrysos Heirs have given rise to this moment.

A celebration for the peace treaty between Okhema and Kremnos is done in their honor, and for the ascension as heroes the both contenders had in this duel. As he wouldn't have it any other way, Phainon searches Fleurdelys through the multitude to spend time with her. For none of this couldn't have happened if it weren't for her— at least, that's what he prefers to believe sooner than the specialness he carries. As sky blue eyes scan the vicinities to search for her (it won't be hard to spot a regal-like form such as her, after all), he can't help but think about something she had told him: once, someone told her to not let her worth be dictated by an inanimate blade. Phainon knows well what she meant with that. She wished for him to not let the Deliverer card dictate his worth, and so he eventually did. However, one question lingers...

What could she possibly have gone through in order to be told that?

At long last he finds her, surprise mirrored in his eyes as he sees Vigethos laying on her lap. Phainon takes notice of the flower behind her ear, a flower he recognizes from the Garden of Life from Okhema. "Haah." His hands find rest on his hips as he halts next to her. "I was the one who succeeded in the treaty and only she gets a little present? I'm hurt, Vigethos." He feigns his sadness momentarily, only for his eyes to soften at the gentle awoo of the chimera in response.

"Thank you for coming, Fleurdelys." The white-haired takes a sit next to her at a prudent distance to not crowd her. A solemn silence ensues between them, a comfortable one that allows for some needed retrospection, about what will happen from now on once they return to Okhema. "What you said before... could you tell me what happened? I couldn't help but feel curious about what events in your life must've brought you to need those words."

𝐓𝐎 𝐋𝐄𝐓 𝐀𝐍 𝐎𝐁𝐉𝐄𝐂𝐓 𝐃𝐄𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐄 𝐎𝐍𝐄'𝐒 𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐇… 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐒 𝐀 𝐒𝐎𝐑𝐑𝐎𝐖 𝐂𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐓𝐇𝐘𝐈𝐀 𝐊𝐍𝐎𝐖𝐒 𝐖𝐄𝐋𝐋. Seraphic maiden falls into pensive quiescence, your words echoing within the depths of her mind. Anxiety of not being enough resonates with her own, sending her into a chain of memories that oft times she wondered if she should leave into the past. But no reminiscence is futile, all of them experiences that converge into the woman of today. Resonance with the Divine Sword Tyrvine was key to the answer she has been seeking for far too long: whose Resonator is she? Imperator's? Leviathan's? Arduous was the path leading to the ultimate lesson she could learn, one that is priceless even now as she looks back into her past. Deep down, it never mattered the answer, but what her actions forged ahead. One may be fated from birth to hold an unjust role in the future, but it depends on oneself to give shape and context to a destiny that never had in the first place— only a brief imagery of what will come to pass.

◜Once, I was told thus: A person of true character should never be defined by an inanimate blade.◞ Allow her to intervene uninvited to share her thoughts on what you are about to perform, sacred as a rite. Lapis lazuli cradles aquamarine in anticipation that her words may give rise to more questions than answers in a moment where clarity is needed like breathing air. ◜That card marks the culmination of your past and what you're set on doing as a result. Nevertheless, no past is enough to rival the fate of a world. Should you wish to contest with it, you must also give your present and your future.◞

Only then will you come victorious, as you always wanted. Only from understanding that what truly matters are your actions as opposed to the heavy role you bear on your shoulders you can stand face to face with the fate of this world, conquer it— make it yours to decide. Just as the role of Deliverer suggests it must do: to carry everyone's wishes into the future and mold the world as thus. Just like she did in the past, in the face of the worst fear that the people of Rinascita could have. By uniting all their will and hopes and converging within her were they able to vanquish the shadow of their primal fear and step into a new tomorrow where they no longer need to live in anguish. So you wished to be, when you confessed you wished to be like me... Khaslana.

A person of true character should never be defined by an inanimate blade. Those words ring louder in his ears that he anticipated, hit home closer than he expected any words would at this moment, amidst a struggle. Phainon is aware that this isn't directly at him, that Fleurdelys opened up to him to reveal a passage of her life. Even so, he knows full well what she means by that. Glacial eyes look at the Deliverer card in his hand, white brows furrow slightly in thought. She is right. This card has been the culmination of the man he became today, believing that he has a purpose in this world and that there is something he could do to soothe its suffering. It is not only about the past or the present, but what he aspires to do. And deep down, what he wants is...

"Remember the past, and become the hero of tomorrow..." Resolute does Phainon stand on the scale from his side, the Deliverer card in his hand as the past; this very moment the present and what he swears he'll put his heart and soul onto the future. He then turns to look at Fleurdelys, the corners of his lips curling upward in a smile. "Together we'll prove that what weighs more than the fate of the world… Is the resolve to shoulder an immutable past, and carry it into the future."

So the ceremony begins, with Trinnon as the Holy Maiden to act as a sacred witness. "Talanton, the fair, the just, they of unassailable integrity— the challengers have made their choices. In the name of the Holy Maiden of the Three Fates, lower your scales, weigh destiny, and reveal unto us your verdict!" From the other side, he listens the prince of Kremnos speak once more, this time not to mock or to taunt. "Your offering is… a card?" "Yes, a flimsy little card. That is my choice. Just know that it's called the "Deliverer." Mydeimos' proud smirk can be heard from where they stand as he crosses his arms, a challenging look burning in his amber gaze. "Interesting. Very well— if you can beat me with this card, then that's what I'll call you from now on!"

The scales move on each side, putting both at the same height as Trinnon explains the meaning. All weight of expectation suffocates him, like the whole world is on his shoulders. Is this what it means to be the Deliverer prophesied by the divine card? Still... "I believe... in what my heart tells me..." At long last a murmur reverberates throughout the empty chamber of the temple, putting him on immediate alert. "Hear thee, children of humanity: I shall pronounce judgment, for the difference is now clear. The one whose offering weighs more than the fate of the world is— One from Aedes Elysiae, the Nameless Hero. However, heed this… The true weight of conviction originates not from itself... but rather in that which tips the scales, hope itself."

𝐇𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐓𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐁𝐄𝐆𝐄𝐓𝐒 𝐈𝐍𝐒𝐄𝐂𝐔𝐑𝐈𝐓𝐘, 𝐆𝐈𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐖𝐀𝐘 𝐓𝐎 𝐔𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐑𝐄𝐃 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐋𝐘𝐒𝐈𝐒 𝐘𝐎𝐔 𝐂𝐀𝐍𝐍𝐎𝐓 𝐀𝐅𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐃 𝐍𝐎𝐖. Enlightened One senses your resolve waver, uncertainty self-sabotaging the victory of a crude battle you have already won the more you learn about why Aglaea chose you to negotiate with the Prince of Kremnos. Truth be said, neither the Goldweaver's manner of communication nor Trinnon's cryptic words are of any help to assuage incandescent doubts. As every conflict that bore fruits of strife, you must fight through it and advance to the next chapter of your life. Nonetheless, that does not mean that you must be alone on this road for all eternity.

Crystal clear it is to Fleurdelys that you anticipated this long before daring to ask her to follow and so she seeks to help solve a struggle that ought to have nothing but a positive outcome to both sides. For the fiery man standing on the other side of the scales of justice, rough around the ages as he may be described by others who fear him and his people, holds no irrational request. Much pride had to be swallowed, much scrutiny to be endured by those who are to crown him as their king to lead them to the last bastion of humanity in a dying world only to be treated unfairly. The weight of this decision is presented on a delicate trinket: a ring that represents his heirloom as the crown prince of Kremnos and now, he waits for you to choose something of equal significance that weighs more than the fate of the world.

Such decision leads to the rapid consideration of matching with an object in kind. Holy Maiden thinks about the Deliverer tarot card you presented to her the previous day, a hefty title that has become your guiding light through the perils of the night after you have lost everything. From your homeland to your family. Like the Prince of Kremnos, you shoulder great responsibility and a past you wish not to repeat. ◜What you showed me yesterday is not too different from how you perceive that prince's ring, is it?◞

"...Looks like we really are on the same wavelength." Gladness washes over him at the notion that Fleurdelys understands his thought process and that she seems to approve of his decision. Perhaps he could've chosen the blade he carries, which has been with him through every battle. One day, it could help write a heroic epic... But not today, for he's still young and he has a long road ahead. So does this blade. Maybe his conviction could've been another good option but... just his resolve isn't enough unless he literally gave his heart.

In the end, there's only one thing he can trust...

Phainon fishes the card out of his back pocket, celestial blues lower to look at its design as he mulls over his thoughts. "The "Deliverer" that appeared in my life on that day… How ironic. I can't even look at this card properly, much less follow where it leads. Just thinking about how my village was swallowed by the black tide makes my hands shake. The flames, the screams, my utter failure to protect anyone…" Even to this day, he still dreams about it all. No matter if he stood tall until the last of it alongside that man who was with him through it all, it was not enough.

"Speaking rationally, I know it's not nearly enough. Aedes Elysiae was just a small village, its loss barely a scar on Amphoreus's face. But here and now, my heart says something else… This card… It's everything I have left. Nothing weighs heavier." The Deliverer card is risen higher, eyes burning with conviction born from his heart. "Perhaps that itself is the answer." Trinnon concedes, visibly happy by his choice despite the lack of facial expression she usually bears. "Still playing house, boy?"

#.promotions #always promoting Lyria

Trading wept of yesterday for what we sing today. Silent martyrs❜ flames burning phonies❜ grin. Sacred breezes, let the bygone return.

#𝐒𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐏𝐇𝐎𝐋𝐘. Independent and selective portrayal of 𝐂𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐓𝐇𝐘𝐈𝐀, also known as Blessed Maiden 𝐅𝐋𝐄𝐔𝐑𝐃𝐄𝐋𝐘𝐒, of Wuthering Waves as written by yours truly 𝐋𝐲𝐫𝐢𝐚. Mature, dark and triggering themes are bound to occur due to the nature of my muse's original setting. Established in 20/05/2025.

#.keepsake #saving this #because it's so beautiful #and teeny khas is a volcano because of this #but that's talk for another day

☥ @soarikaros asked: The end of the Carnevale draws near with the sun setting over the horizon, making its conclusion on the return to Avinoleum from Ragunna. As a holy knight that barely recovered his memories, Khaslana knows that his riches cannot compare to those who have lived here far longer. Still, he did his best to arrange something modest for the birthday maiden. Rather than keeping her company back to the Tower of Salvation where she shall rest for the remainder of the night, he has an interesting offer to whisper so that the other acolytes won't hear. A hand is offered for her to accompany him to a star-filled waterway where he whistles. Almost as if it were prepared with anticipation, the echo that acts as a gondola cries in reply and rushes to where they are immediately.

A smile lifts the corners of his lips as he descends the stairs and, once again, offers his smile to help her down and onto the gondola. "Care for an evening ride?" The flutter of his heartbeat makes him feel warm when she accepts his hand, so that both ride the gondola and sit on the same bench together. Cornflower eyes can't stop looking at her, at her amazement, at how beautiful she is under the moon and the stars as the former shed their light from the heavens and the very water they cruise now. Once he stills his nerves, he fishes from his back pocket a small box he opens for her. Within lies a golden pendant ornamented with a fleur de lis. "Just like your holy name." He explains, almost embarrassed by how predictable that is. "Happy birthday, Cartethyia."

𝐈𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐇𝐎𝐋𝐘 𝐌𝐀𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐍 𝐇𝐀𝐃 𝐓𝐎 𝐃𝐄𝐒𝐂𝐑𝐈𝐁𝐄 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐃𝐀𝐘 𝐈𝐍 𝐎𝐍𝐄 𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐃, 𝐓𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐖𝐎𝐔𝐋𝐃 𝐁𝐄 𝐆𝐋𝐎𝐑𝐈𝐎𝐔𝐒. People dancing to their heart's content, cheering and singing in all their joy. The moment when everyone celebrates their fortune to have a benevolent Sentinel watching over them day and night shall be a solemn rite no more, but an instant to be happy to be alive and share their collective freedom granted by the Master of the Heavens. Despite the figure she represents to Ragunna, Fleurdelys was overjoyed to be given the chance to perform on stage with an improvised dance of her own— one of many she crafted in her solitude or within the presence of very few: echoes or not, it didn't matter. Exhaustion from the windwhirl of emotions shed that day weighs on bone and marrow as they make their quiet return back to Avinoleum, her second home.

But to her surprise, you have other plans of your own she did not quite anticipate. Heart-fluttering closeness is welcomed with cautious surprise as lapis lazuli irises meet celestial sapphires. Time and time again she was taught not to wander at night recklessly, not even within the confines that the holy seminary have to offer. Yet she doubts you not— she never would, and thus her petite hand finds repose on your bigger own. A gentle twinkle in the eye presents itself as she looks at you through aureate lashes, letting herself be guided by your instinct. The holy maiden nearly startles at the sudden whistle that makes her look at her vicinities with concern tensing her brow. ◜Not so loud! What if we get caught—◞ Loud whispers are cut short as soon as she finds out the reason behind your whistle: it was not meant to attract attention to you, but call forth an interesting little friend she has seen before, too.

Once understanding settles does a chuckle ring from her, roseate lips curled in a smile that reaches her eyes reserved just for you. Certainty and consent are conveyed through a nod prior to putting her hand on yours once again as she rides the echo with you. Well cognizant she is that typically, gondolas are ridden with individuals sitting on opposing sides. But she insists to sit by your side, fingers intertwined and head resting upon your shoulder to bask in the comfort of your lingering presence. Fleurdelys marvels at the union of stars far above on the nocturne sky and below on the crystalline waters that not only reflect their distant companion, but serve as home to luminescent sparks of blue. Her free hand submerges on the cool water, taking in the stars that remain on her hand thereafter as if they were stardust in the most literal sense of the word.

◜Beautiful... I don't think I ever had the pleasure to enjoy Avinoleum like this.◞ Perceptive as she is, the Enlightened One notices your rare silence. Soft is the squeeze to your hand as her eyes seek to connect with your, anxiety bubbling within her chest that she might have done something wrong. All of it to be washed away immediately as you present a cornflower box to her. Periwinkle irises quiver as the content of the box is revealed, moving from the beautiful pendant to you and vice versa, back and forth. Her heart races as you describe the necklace, and the realization that you sought something so personal for her dawns on her. Agape lips close in a smile anew as she turns her back to you, hand slipping from yours to hold pearl blond hair up for you.

Long before she expresses her wish to wear the pendant, your hands already are on the work to carefully and gently place it around her neck. Once it is done, her gaze lowers to the precious gift, palm under the beautiful shape of a fleur de lis to inspect it better. ◜Words will not make justice to express how happy I am, Khaslana...◞ And so she doesn't allow them to convey less than the enormity of her sentiments. Her frail hands seeks yours blindly again, long fingers intertwined with yours as she looks back at you, peach-colored lips curling in a new smile as she dares to be brave and be more expressive. Thus she leans towards you, free hand cupping your face to press a lingering kiss upon your cheek. ◜Thank you.◞

𝐇𝐎𝐋𝐘 𝐌𝐀𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐍 𝐊𝐍𝐎𝐖𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓 𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐃'𝐒 𝐈𝐍𝐍𝐄𝐑 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐅𝐋𝐈𝐂𝐓 as if it were her own. Years of experience taught her to tend people each with their individual plights and struggle face to face. Many more to come turned her consciousness into a memorial of prayers and supplications only for her to hear when the original god object of their reverence has long since passed away. The Council of Elder's situation isn't any different than what she had encountered in the Order of the Deep— albeit masked to give her a sense of peace and prosperity when the reality was anything but. Humans fear the unknown, what they understand not. Where words filled with venom are supposed to attack and earn superiority over the heroes sworn to bring the Era Nova to Amphoreus, Fleurdelys sees dread for loss of control. Unease of letting others do what they were incapable.

To her measured and muted satisfaction, Aglaea doesn't hesitate to stand her ground in the name of the Chrysos Heirs, neither does Tribbie. And then there is you, whom can speak on humanity's behalf better than the former as a child of man yourself. Poisonous words wane until quiescence is left in your words' wake, powerless once again to stand on her own two feet without intervention of another who may be more appropriate to negotiate with the prince. Your celestial gaze holds the nocturne depths that are her own to afford safety and reassurance, just as even deeper down it seeks validation that she immediately gives with one nod of her own. Do you see it now? This is the reason why Aglaea had chosen you to be at the helm of the negotiation. Be it biting or peaceful, you have a way with words that could disarm even the proudest of men.

Words of protection from one to another can only be answered in kind, thus does the seraphic saint step next to you, arms folded below her bosom with the grace of a swan and the temperance of an advocate of humanity. ◜For the record, I was summoned here to act as a witness to the diplomacy betwixt Phainon of Aedes Elysiae and Mydeimos of Castrum Kremnos. Lest you are uninterested in the success of negotiation, you are not to interfere negatively in his morale nor that of the Chrysos Heirs present here.◞ A brief pause ensues, chin rises as lapis lazuli irises shift from neutral to cold in the span of one second. ◜Now, step aside if you will.◞ Spiritual pressure meant for these meddlers forces them to step out of their way, shock sparks in their eyes with disbelief only they understand. Aglaea and Tribbie exchange a knowing look of complicity in return before they look briefly at Fleurdelys. The former offers a pleased smile as her arms fall to her sides. ◜Well then. Let us continue, shall we?◞

Silent surprise emerges on the surface of celestial irises as soon as the people of the Council of Elders step aside. It's crystal clear that they wanted to say more, to oppose more resistance than that. Phainon's gaze drifts towards Fleurdelys unbothered expression, his own narrowing in thought. There is no denial, that pressure he felt just now... it must've come from her. Just what kind of individual is capable of targeting their spiritual pressure at will on someone else to do her bidding? This is a notion that he best be take care of, but then again... this is her he's talking about. She has proven time and time again that she has humanity on the best of her interests, and never once she uttered a complain when he needed her help. He has no reason to not to trust her.

As Trinnon suggests, they move onward to meet the Prince of Kremnos waiting patiently for them. This was meant to be an honorable duel, the winner gets to choose the result of their encounter. But to Phainon's surprise, he was not called as a soldier to fight another. It dawns on him now that this was never meant to be a physical duel and now he stands here even more lost than he were before when he asked Fleurdelys to come with him.

To let the Titan of Law Talanton be the judge of this duel's winner... by placing on its impartial scales something that has more weight than the fate of the world.

The Prince of Kremnos moves onward on his own without nary a concern (or at least, it looks like it), meanwhile he's left speechless and in thought as they move together towards Talanton's scales. "Only those who understand the world's weight are worthy to carry it." He muses aloud as he watches the blond prince show his choice: a signet. Of course he already knows what to place on the scale, the result of this duel would determine the fate of his own people, after all. Then there is him, still unsure of what he was chosen here for in the first place. There is no winner, but what matters is the choice each one makes, does Trinnon say? Now, that leaves him even more confused than he was before. "What could I possibly offer against a ring that signifies so much?"

Quiescence is offered in courtesy to let Phainon speak up his mind and listen in turn, porcelain features still like tranquil water. Surprise remains concealed under the guise of solemn composure as the saint silently listens with care. Be it in this world or her own, it has always been customary to assist those in help. May they be rich or poor, tame echoes or stranded cats atop a tree. Fleurdelys' love for living beings and her wish for their continued prosperity knows no bounds and thus, Amphoreus isn't any different to her. What catches her off-guard is to find out people's perception through another. Far from what her divinity allows her to hear directly. Holy Maiden doesn't see big feats in what she does, but hearing them being described by through another's lens is eye-opening. Something to be proud of, as her well wishes for everyone are felt in turn.

None of what the Chrysos Heir said is meaningless. The mindful craft of his words had a destination in mind: a confession. Phainon professes his wish to be like her, and the seraph, in turn, reflects on similar words spoken from the heart as much as they are now. Reminder that Khaslana confessed that he wants to learn how to listen to people's wishes like she does and make them become true echoes through time and space back to stardust incarnate. But oh, little did he know that in time he would become something even greater than what he would dream of. Perhaps even grander and more sorrowful, she would argue.

◜You need not aspire to be like someone else in order to be grand yourself.◞ What other way does she have to answer such earnest words if not by mirroring that honesty? It is an honor that Phainon would think so highly of her, nonetheless. Her delicate hand lifts to poke the center of his chest with her finger. ◜Only one with a heart of gold would shoulder both responsibilities and consequences of taking upon oneself such burden. Here you stand at a crossroads where you could choose to lead a simple life, yet you have already stepped on the beginning of a long journey. That in itself is praiseworthy enough, Phainon.◞

One question remains next: to join him in his first steps of an arduous sojourn or not. Lapis lazuli irises narrow in silent thought, not to ponder options of an answer she already knows in her heart. But to wonder how many tribulations must Khaslana have endured on his own, solitary journey. If this is what he would have wanted, difficulties and all. Her heart feels heavier at the mere thought of the Deliverer wishing that she were with him by his side, a caged wish that could never transcend stars to reach to her. Cartethyia doesn't know if this is the right thing to do, so in this case... everything she can do is act on accord to her own heart. ◜If neither Aglaea or Tribios have any inconvenience, I would gladly witness your first steps to become the Deliverer.◞

Hollowness greets the newcomers to this gravestone of memories made in a civilization that is no more. The cool environment can be felt through visible puffs of air that emerge with every exhale from the few that give Januspolis some semblance of life. Monochrome colors blend in a reflection of the loss of vitality this grand city once had, singing silent requiems for those who have been entombed under the merciless Black Tide. Contrary to who Fleurdelys expected to find, there stands three people whose attire she can only relate to the holy city of Okhema. Stern faces meet godly indifference under their failed pressure as their leader steps forward. ◜I accepted to let the Chrysos Heirs deal with this. But to let another god interfere? What do you think you're doing, Aglaea? Make more of your kind join you so that you can subjugate us humans under your might?◞

You need not aspire to be like someone else in order to be grand yourself. Phainon's bewilderment to those words suffice to disarm him, make him feel at a loss. Even though it was left clear that Aglaea chose him for a reason to participate in the negotiation with the prince of Kremnos, he didn't truly feel like he... was something special. For all he knew, he was just a holy guard in duty to protect Okhema however he could. Yes, it is true that he had links with some of the Chrysos Heirs for reasons he had yet to figure out on his own. But to listen from another that he's special even without any of that...

That makes him truly, truly happy.

Pearl-like teeth show through his radiant smile as soon as the Holy Maiden's words finally click. "I can't say that I ever thought of myself as someone so grand..." Despite the bashfulness he shows through the light scratching to the side of his face, his smile doesn't waver. "But you are right. It makes me overjoyed to hear that you do and that you see value in the little things I do." If her encouraging words didn't make him happy enough, what followed next surely made him even happier. Reason why his face brightens, his hands reaching out to gently hold hers despite the delight of her acceptance. "I will let them know immediately!" He beams at her, eyes closed in a kind smile before he rouses up. After he pats himself clean, he's about to break into a run to find Aglaea. Not before he turns one last time to look at her, pale cheeks alight with pink hues. "...Thank you."

Convincing Aglaea to let Fleurdelys join the negotiation as a witness went smoother than he had originally believed. In fact, he was surprised by how fast she conceded and the knowing look she and Tribbie have exchanged in quiet approval and... perhaps something more. Maybe it was something akin to some measured happiness, he can't tell. The day came and he could feel his hands sweating with anxiety for what's to come. From what little he had heard of the prince of Kremnos, he's a ruthless man that never yields. Not even to agreeable propositions. Phainon had expected to find him first thing, standing there at the edge of the abyss. But instead, it's part of the Council of Elders that were waiting for them instead.

Sky blue eyes widen with disbelief at Caenis' remark and disrespect to Aglaea and Tribbie's judgement, as well as Fleurdelys'. "Have you not given up on trying to negotiate with the prince of Kremnos, Caenis? Why do you insist in butting in where you clearly failed?" As he expected, Aglaea didn't waver one bit. Much to the elder's dismay, whose stern mask is falling to show contained anger. "You ageless witch. Just because I left this task to you doesn't mean you get to do whatever you want!" Phainon steps in between the white-haired and Aglaea to shield her from the accusatory pointing finger. Despite his own fury, he remains calm and impassible in the face of the other's anger as he looks at her. "Elder Caenis, I understand that it must be frustrating to be unable to reach to an agreement with the prince of Kremnos. However, from the moment you left this in Aglaea's capable hands, you have no right to interfere."

Phainon turns to look at the blond seamstress and mirrors her nod in approval, then his gaze falls on Fleurdelys. His smile grows a little more when their eyes connect, and so he offers her a reassuring nod before facing Caenis. "As for Fleurdelys... it's funny that you describe her as a god, for that only cements more the fact that she's revered as such not because she so demands, but because the people had made that decision." "Everything we do is in the name of humanity. So let all of us calm down, elder Caenis." Tribbie is the next to interfere into the conversation, conciliating as she's always been.

Candour glimmers within your cyan depths at the sight of a card you hold as if it were made of fine china. Just like someone would their most precious treasure. Seraphic maiden looks at it with as much interest, curious to learn what makes it so important. A word suffices to understand: Deliverer. Words spoken connect with memories of yesteryear, completing one's explanation with the other's. One card for every prophetic role in Amphoreus' story. In the time Holy Maiden has spent of suspended consciousness, she saw a total of twelve people who are the main characters of this saga, the Chrysos Heirs. What she has yet to decipher is whether this world's fate system has already been pre-established or if it's being actively manipulated.

「Back home, there is a friend who can read tarot cards, said to be blessed by Oronyx. When she read them for me for the first time, she drew the Deliverer card and everyone was so surprised. Because they say that Deliverer is like a savior who holds everyone's wishes close to his chest, who protects everyone. But in all honesty... I wouldn't say that I'm a savior. If anything, I would rather be a scholar. Because the savior is a very honorable person and must bear a very heavy responsibility. I am not that powerful, so I can't be a 'savior'.」

Phainon's explanation blurs and aligns with Khaslana's. One's is the continuation of the other's, and so the whole story of what the Deliverer is is made. Warmth stirs Cartethyia's beating heart as one realization dawns on her. Do you see that, Khaslana? You need to fret no more, for he... has already chosen his calling. Such is the kindness in his heart that he would make his wish fulfill everyone else's. Without a sense of remorse or injustice, should this be Amphoreus fate's design.

A bat of aureate lashes reveal quivering lapis lazuli irises, visibly moved by this very notion. ◜So it seems that you have found your answer, then.◞ And oh, how proud she is of him. Her eyes close momentarily between an airy chuckle through her nose. Similarly as Phainon, they open anew to lock with his beautiful celestial ones. That smile... that is the smile she wants to guard. Forevermore. She couldn't Khaslana's for the past thirty-three million cycles whilst she had her own war to fight, but perhaps... there will be one day when he forgives her. When everything is worth the wait, if she can protect Phainon's. ◜Tell me one thing, Phainon.◞ His name slips past her lips with kindled warmth, different than she used to before. Unbeknownst to her, not so dissimilar than how she mutters Khaslana's. ◜What did you need me for? Surely you must've had a different plan when you sought me.◞ Other than this conversation, which might have come as a surprise to him, she believes.

Phainon is a man who doesn't expose easily what he truly has in mind. Long has it been since this has become an habit of his, not necessarily to be deceptive towards people or to build a fake persona to conceal his true self. But with Fleurdelys... everything comes so easily. Even if she may not prey or prod into his deepest thoughts, it falls on him to share everything that crosses his mind with ease. The grass under his palms feels fresh as he shifts his weight on his arms to look up at the sky. "Yes, I have." And how glad he is that he found it within himself. With the Holy Maiden's help, of course. He isn't all too sure if he would've come to this decision weren't for her little push.

Surprise flashes in cornflower eyes when she questions what he really needed her for. True, he searched for her as soon as he found out that she's in the Garden of Life... and he even got Vigethos mad at him for claiming Fleurdelys' attention. Quiet shock gives way to timidity as his hand rises to rub the back of his head, the corners of his lips tugging a smile that reaches his eyes. "Oh, about that." A nervous chuckle follows after as he recomposes himself, glacial eyes locking on her starry ones. Truth be told, he did want to talk to her so that he could appease his own insecurities and come to an answer to give Aglaea. But that wasn't all there is to it.

Fleurdelys as sharp as always.

"The reason I came here... is because I wanted to ask you to come with me to the negotiation." Celestial gaze drifts away to a couple of scholars from the Grove chatting nearby some chimeras. "...Do you know why the people at the Grove of Epiphany looked up to you? It wasn't because you have a divine-like aura that makes them feel safe. In fact, no one could tell through the way you navigated among people. It's because you heard their wishes and made them come true. The scholar's husband who was sick and you showed up at their home to purify him... the little girl who had lost her toy in the maze of the grove and got it back... Of course, your presence also helped keep the Black Tide away, everyone knew about that. But it was because of those little wishes you fulfilled that you became so beloved among the people. Because you listened." Feeling a spark of courage byproduct of the speech, he emboldens himself to look back at her. A hand rises to rest over the spot of his heart.

"I want to be that way, too. I want to be like you. So if things go right and the negotiation goes well... it would be a big honor to know that you are there to witness it. To see me on my first step towards becoming a Deliverer."

A scattered dream that's like a far off memory, a far off memory that's like a scattered dream. I want to line the pieces up... yours and mine. Gentle zephyr caresses the golden wheat field as Cartethyia skips with nary a concern in her mind in search of her target. Amidst the aureate plane, she spots white hair like traces of moonlight. Khaslana's sleepy form brings a smile to roseate lips that reaches lapis lazuli irises. But of course, it wouldn't be her if she didn't poke fun of him for falling asleep yet again while he waits for her. Thus her hands close in loose fists that rest on her hips, cheeks puffed with feigned scorn. ◜Sleeping yet again? I thought I told you how rude it is to welcome a lady like that.◞

☥ @soarikaros ♥︎ed for a starter!

Today was the day when Khaslana had gathered the courage he needed to show her the new place he's discovered in Aedes Elysiae: a whole paradise as if born from a fairytales book. As usual, he comes first and falls asleep at the beautiful sight of the sky, the wheat tickling his skin as he lays down. The next time he opens his eyes, he's surprised by the starry sky— it only comes as an afterthought that it's not because the veil of evernight has come, but because of Cartethyia's eyes peering down on him. Khaslana moves into a sitting position, hand moving to rub the back of his head apologetically whilst he offers a bright smile. "My bad, my bad. I came earlier and I just couldn't help the coziness of laying down here under the gentle sunlight." Cornflower eyes capture the new sight before him now that the initial sheepishness has subsided, an outfit that he hasn't seen her wear before. "Is that the outfit that the temple had prepared for you?" It's beautiful. These words would've slipped past his lips without shame if it weren't because Khaslana has some sense of shyness. "You look like a Holy Maiden now."

You who wear self-doubt and insecurity like a second skin, how do you manage to shine as bright as you are? May as it be in the darkness of holding this world's truth or in the light of blissful ignorance, your light never once shatters. Phainon's uncertainty is crystal clear to her eyes. Even so, there is strength in acknowledging that Aglaea could have a valid reason to make the request to him. Courage to step in and find a solution to appease his troubled mind. All despite unrelenting feeling that he isn't suitable for the task. Holy maiden was armored with one thousand reasons and more to deflect his insecurity were it sufficiently persistent. But in his gratitude, she understands that it's unnecessary and thus she exhales a sigh in relief.

Lapis lazuli irises blink with interest at the mention of a third person described to hold a resemblance to her, curious to who it might be. Only for a fraction of a second. Phainon continues to speak and his words immediately click with the likeness of someone she knows too well. Khaslana. Deep in his sorrow, he was overjoyed to share that he spent time with him. The bravery he mustered, unimaginable. ◜You should give yourself more credit.◞ There is an undeniable curiosity to know what was like the time they have spent together, but Fleurdelys refrains from digging further into that topic. For the time being, at least. ◜Do you see? Your words suggest that he knew what to say so you could find a solution to your preoccupations. Like Aglaea, he sees potential where you fail to notice.◞ Roseate lips curl in a gentle smile thereafter until a sudden thought crosses her mind.

Phainon's interest to come to her for assistance indicates his will to accept the Goldweaver's request. At least, that is what she would like to believe. Alas... is this what he really wants to do? Khaslana before him, too. Everything he did for Amphoreus, for himself in the coming cycles. Did he do every one of them because he wanted, or because he was left with no other choice? Unlike the curiosity she concealed like a veil before, seraphic saint doesn't hesitate to materialize this one inquiry. ◜To have potential to do a task is one of the elements needed, but there is more. Pray tell, Phainon: what do you want to do?◞

#fleuredelys #.thread #yess #looking forward to the next :)

Khaos was never one to lay the entirety of the answer to him when things got difficult. Rather, he was the kind to show him tools he realised later he already had and let him do the rest. So that he could learn on his own. The realisation flusters Phainon slightly, as shown by the brief rub on the back of his head. "I guess you're right." But he and Aglaea aren't the only ones who do that. Professor Anaxa has his way of never giving a straightforward answer either unless he grows too exasperated. And Fleurdelys... she has come recently in his life, yet she also seems to know what buttons must be pressed.

It's almost... as if they have already known each other. In another life.

Phainon perks at the sound of the holy maiden's voice, cyan eyes blinking with curiosity. What does he want to do, she says? Truth be said... he didn't question himself. He was too pressed on the prospect that he may not be suitable for the task to wonder if he wants to do it. Or rather, he's known the answer all along. That's why he was so overwhelmed by self-doubt and insecurities. Fleurdelys, too. Even though she has come recently to the Grove of Epiphany, she never once doubted to help when she was needed, when people realised there was something she could do. Even without being asked, she was well-aware of her capacities and chose to stay, to protect people like a guardian no one saw coming. Exactly like the prophecy of the Deliverer.

The corners of his lips tug in a smile as he fetches a card he always carries in his pocket. "Here." He shows her the Deliverer card, the little treasure he's been holding with him from his homeland. "This is the Deliverer, one of the twelve oracle cards carrying time's wisdom, blessed by Oronyx. It is said that according to the tripartite prophecy, this card means absolute harmony and perfection. It is also the only card without a dark side. This card... is everything I have left from my dearest homeland." And he would continue to carry it with him, forever. A sense of nostalgia and sorrow reflect in his eyes, at his inability to protect it from the Black Tide. But before he allows himself to be engulfed by such sentiments, he shakes his head as if to clear it from those thoughts and turns to look at Fleurdelys, a small smile making its way to his lips.

"On the first time when this card was drawn to me, everyone was surprised. You see, they link each card with a Titan and the Deliverer... it's connected with Kephale. The reason why everyone was so excited for me is because Kephale is our protector, who also happens to carry everyone's wishes. That's something very noble to do and I don't think I could be as grand. So when lady Aglaea asked me if I was up for the task, I asked myself: what if I can be like the Deliverer? Hear people's wishes, make them become true? The reason why the prince of Kremnos rose is because the people of Okhema haven't entirely warmed up with the Kremnoan yet, he wants his people to have the same rights as everyone else. So maybe... just maybe, I believed that if I could reach to an understanding with him, then that could be the first small step in the right direction."

Pearl-like teeth show through his smile next, his finger scratches slightly the side of his face in an act of nervousness. "That was... before I started to doubt myself." Moonlight lashes flutter close to take in a deep breath, let the fresh air permeate his lungs and calm his mind before they open again, locking with Fleurdelys'. "It makes me very happy to see you ask what I want, lady Fleurdelys. So to answer your question... if there is anything I can do to help, I would gladly take the chance in a heartbeat. If there is something I can do to make people's wishes come true, then I would gladly carry them in my heart."

As someone so deeply-interwoven with Holy City's life as Phainon is, it is only natural that he would be alert to any change that humanity's last bastion of Amphoreus experiences, be it positive or negative. Fleurdelys remembers this feeling as if it was yesterday, when she was attentive to the people's prayers and, as she believed Imperator would in all her faith to the aetherial pegasus, she did her best to answer in kind and make their wishes be heard through shifts in the Rinascitan society. Even now that she is no longer obligated to spend energy on such matters in a land that isn't even her own she can feel ripples on the still water— the coming of a new society that has been at odds with Okhema up until that moment stirring discomfort among those who don't have the heart to accept one more civilization among them. Yet this isn't negative in eyes that have seen the worst of humanity, moreso a challenge for the people of Okhema to stand tall and become —once again— empathetic towards those who have lost their home.

◜Secluded as I am from the general public, it is hard even for me to ignore the subtle change of airs with the coming of war-borne people.◞ Not only in how they differ of mentality, but the problematic ways they have to stand up against the adversity of scrutiny and open rejection. Nary one or the other side of this story are free from guilt in the rousing discord. However, lapis lazuli eyes have seen countless possibilities in the future (or is it the past?) where ultimately, everyone unites under the banner of humanity rather than their own territorial ones. Fleurdelys has seen moments shared betwixt Phainon and a blond youth where both stand together against life-threatening adversities, standing back to back to protect one another; others where they share more recreational moments sparring on the rooftop as they shared joyful laughter. Detached as the Governor of Space is from the Chrysos Heirs' real potential, she wonders if the Janus priestess has seen the same and her and thus the Goldweaver made the call to have them meet. A wise decision, if she's allowed to praise.

◜You wonder why the Goldweaver decided to choose you to do the part.◞ She concludes with words that Phainon couldn't bring himself to admit aloud, but that he does in his heart. ◜Not knowing why stirs unrest in your heart, yet bringing up the topic to me means that you have been considering her request. Is that not right?◞ The solemnity she wears like a veil weakens with the softening of pale features as she turns to look at him through long lashes. ◜I am not as well-versed in the Chrysos Heirs' feats as you may be, but if there is something I have learned in my brief time spent with them in the Grove of Epiphany is that their choices are not to be taken lightly. Specially not if they keep at heart the people's safety as the iron hand against the looming Black Tide. So must be true from the one leading them, counting with a seer's advice.◞ A brief pause ensues to allow him to let those words sink in, to give his troubled mind reasons to not dwell in what he believes he lacks, but what potential she has seen in him to commend him with such important task. ◜Let me ask you this, Phainon: why not should lady Aglaea choose you to negotiate with the Prince of Kremnos?◞

Oh, she read him like an open book. Nervousness escapes through a chuckle that passes his lips, his moonlight eyebrows' apologetic frown unmoving as his hand lifts to rub the back of his head. It's not like Phainon is deliberately hiding what he truly feels and thinks for the sake of it, but his sense of safety would've appreciated deeply if Fleurdelys gave him that feeling for a tad longer. Truth be said, it's more a matter of not knowing how to feel or letting his insecurities bleed into the others' rather than concealing his heart to others. "You got me there." One last, audible laugh punctuates that whilst his hand falls to his lap, as his glacial azure eyes.

Why not, she says? There are many reasons why, in fact— "I'm just a holy guard." He sentences, shoulders shrinking as if to make himself smaller. "It's true that Aglaea insisted that I take classes at the Grove of Epiphany once I came to Okhema, after my homeland was ravaged by the Black Tide as many more were before mine, but..." But what? Isn't what he says one more point in favor that she's seen something special in him in order to spend resources for his education? His eyes widen slightly when a realisation dawns upon him.

Maybe that's precisely the reason why. Kremnos was destroyed like Aedes Elysiae was.

Did she believe that he'd be able to empathise with him enough to reach to a middle ground? If that were the case, little matters how high he is in the societal echelon to take on the solemn duty of negotiating with the prince as the representative of Okhema. When two hearts reverberate in the unison that is understanding, everything is bound to follow as smooth. Not to mention that it has been a very long time since Aglaea and Tribios became demigods, thus it's only natural that they would lose their humanity with the passing of years. Unlike them, he's still a man with a beating heart.

Coming to terms with the fact that there are valid reasons why Aglaea requested this of him brings a smile to his face, long fingers intertwining still. "Thank you." He mumbles under his breath, audible enough for her to hear as if entrusting her with the secrecy behind his gratitude. "You know? You remind me of someone from Aedes Elysiae." A man that carried a mighty greatsword, the perfect sword he could find to match his strength. An armor scarred by honor, a cloak like midnight wings soaring through the storm. His face and hair, petrified. His visible eye almost soulless, yet containing a gentle disposition towards him at all times. "Whenever I was feeling down, he always found the right words to give me strength to move past those feelings and become stronger."

The wheels of fate began to turn after that destined night which marked the official parting betwixt Cartethyia and Khaslana. Ever since, she had started to notice a group of people's shift in attitude towards her versus if she weren't there, whispers and murmurs exchanged between one another and feigning that nothing happened thereafter as a means to not rouse any suspicion. Perhaps the reason why she hadn't noticed this earlier is because she was stationed in the Grove of Epiphany, where the treatment of the people was more transparent and harboring no ulterior motives. Okhema is different in that regard, maybe because the power balance is higher in the Holy City where suspicions are more evident and the struggle between Chrysos Heirs and the council of elders is more obvious still.

Nonetheless, she chose to feign ignorance on this matter in order to not create any dispute, regardless if she's able to sense their doubts about her person. For there is no need to create anything that has nothing to do with her to begin with, for it is never about her— but about doing everything she can in order to help Khaslana in his solitary quest of bringing salvation to Amphoreus.

Since the moment she moved to Okhema, she found the notion of seeing the birth of chimeras in the Garden of Life very endearing. Reason why she is here today, after finding out that a new chimera was brought to life. Cartethyia wanted to check with her own eyes if the rumors she had heard around were true: some of the chimeras' design started to match that of the current Chrysos Heirs. Lady Aglaea, Lady Tribbie, Hyacinthia and even professor Anaxagoras. To her surprise, not only this newborn chimera's design is similar to someone familiar to her, but to none other than Phainon. How she wished Khaslana were here to witness this crossed her mind, but deep down she knows that it is not possible.

Still, as if someone heard her wish and wanted to make it come true, Phainon's voice echoes right next to her. ◜Do you not? It is hard to not be loving to these pure creatures.◞ She retaliates, taking no shame in being seen with a chimera on her lap despite the reputation she has earned in the Grove of Epiphany. ◜Good afternoon to you too.◞ Sensing the moonlight haired's interest in the little chimera, she moves him gently so he can have a better access. Fair features soften at the little exchange between both, Vigethos crying in protest as if he understood immediately that her attention won't be on him anymore. ◜Stay calm, Vigethos.◞ Cartethyia intervenes, cradling his little body back to tranquility. ◜He doesn't mean that you have to go, only that my attention will be divided momentarily between you both.◞ She turns to look at Phainon then, head canting to one side. ◜Isn't that right?◞

Once the small drama subsides and Vigethos falls asleep, the Holy Maiden moves slightly to make room for Phainon to sit beside her if he so wishes. ◜It is rare to see you here at this hour.◞ She claims with confidence, as she has frequented the Garden of Life sufficiently to tell that he doesn't tend to come here all that often— at least after lunch time, that is. ◜My attention is yours now, as you wished. You may speak freely.◞

"Point taken." A chuckle preludes his words before his azure gaze descends upon the little chimera. If it weren't because he, too, has a fondness for these creatures, he wouldn't spend time with them whenever he can't get to sleep for his afternoon nap after having lunch. The curl of his lips widens, the smile reaches up to softening eyes at the chimera's petulant complaint at the notion of taking some of Cartethyia's attention away from him. "I know, I know." Phainon coos gently, his hand stroking the feline's head to calm him down. "Right." A nod is immediately given in answer to her question, no matter his curiosity whether the chimera actually understands what they say. "You don't have to go."

Tranquility lingers in the Garden of Life as soon as Vigethos falls asleep, the ensuing silence comfortable to just take a moment to relax with the Holy Maiden's calm presence. Cartethyia's remark is met with a silent exhale of a chuckle of his own, eyes fluttering close in defeat. Then, his eyes open anew to look at a man dressed with Kremnoan-styled clothes. "I don't know if you noticed an influx of different people here, in Okhema. It is the Kremnoan people. Their home just got destroyed by the inclement Black Tide and their prince guided them to our Holy City."

He can't help but wonder what it must've felt like to have no other choice but abandon one's home and go to another, where potentially they will never feel at home ever again. Perhaps coming generations will not have to suffer that discomfort, he prays. "There has been some discomfort between the locals and the Kremnoan people and their prince rose in answer to meet the elders and demand that they put order among their people so that the Kremnoans live as equals to the rest."

If only the story ended there. Now is when the hardest part comes.

Phainon's eyes close, moonlight eyebrows knit in a defeated frown whilst an audible sigh escapes his lips. "For some reason, Aglaea as the leader of the Chrysos Heirs suggested that I discuss matters with the Prince of Kremnos in the elders' behalf, in representation of Okhema to reach an agreement with him." Him, of all people. He's still in disbelief that Aglaea would request that he participates as a main actor in something so important that could turn the wheels of fate of their Holy City.

Promise me the dawn graced by stars. At first, Cartethyia believed it was a figment of her imagination. Yet she heard them loud and clear, their reverberations still ringing in her ears even though Khaslana's soft lips don't move to utter those words. For the time being she chooses to push that to the back of her head so she can spend what little precious time she has left with him, whatever happened and whether it's imagination or reality can wait. Luminous tears fall down her smooth skin as she welcomes her beloved's lips in a kiss, the warmth of hands that cradle her face one she wishes to etch on the depths of her soul until it's encountered again. Not in the warmth of someone else, nor does she want to know another's lips. She wants to bask in the glory of his affections alone.

There is much she has yet to learn about this world: what does he mean by meeting again on the golden wheat field —assuming that he implies Aedes Elysiae— if it has already been destroyed? Does he mean by this that she sees him in another cycle, where his homeland wasn't destroyed by the ravages of the inclement Black Tide? Confused as she is, she doesn't allow it to stop her from giving him the reassurance he needs. ◜It's a promise.◞ She whispers ultimately, sensing that they have reached to the edge of their official parting. Now that she thinks about it, the golden wheat fields were the place where they first connected in a more intimate way back in Egla Town only for them to reunite again in Aedes Elysiae, this time during eventide until the first rays of dawn began to rise. Perhaps what he wishes is that a night like that never again has to end with the sunrise, but bleed into the day and continue through the night where they can be together, unlike what they have to resign themselves to.

Ripples form with the fall of a drop of water within the recesses of her consciousness as she now remains alone, Khaslana long gone. His voice in her ears once again crystal clear to her, a confirmation that what she had heard before wasn't mere figment of imagination but rather— echoes of his desire. He who never once dares to confide wishes, nor feel deserving enough to have wishes of his own. Even though Cartethyia tried her best to make him feel at ease and safe so he could express himself to his heart's content... he still didn't dare to verbalize these other two wishes. Only that she takes care of Phainon.

「Wherever you go, I will follow... so long as you'll have me.」

「No matter how many lives I will see through from now on, even if the world plots against me to erase my memories in every life, I will keep you right here. You taught me the meaning of bearing everyone's wishes and how it is done, and you gave me strength and something to believe in, to keep fighting.」

「I'll be waiting for you, heroine of my heart.」

「It's a promise.」

Long ago, you told me about your dreams to become a Deliverer who could carry the wishes of everyone in your heart, to keep them alive to the coming of the Nova Era in a peaceful, new world. You thought of me as someone who you had to learn from in a solemn duty that I was already performing, but the truth is... that I had to learn just as much. Your dream has become my dream and I followed it until I found you again.

I do not know if I have what it takes to end this loop of suffering, or to bring you the dawn you wish for graced by stars. But if that dawn is nowhere to be found, allow me to light up the stars for you, to become the dawn that embraces this world in light and chases away the shadows of tragedy.

Wait for me a little longer, Khaslana. I promise it will not take as long as you have already been waiting... it can't.

It's a promise.

Opposite to what other people may believe of him, Phainon is a man who tends to follow a daily schedule of everything he wants to get done for the day including his duties as a Holy City Guard. However, not always he can follow it as he would have wanted. After eating lunch, he's used to take a nap before going on his afternoon patrol around the city, frequenting above all the post he was assigned as a guard. Yet this time he was unable to sleep, his mind full of thoughts revolving around Lady Aglaea's proposition: to act as the representative of the council of elders and speak on their behalf to another distinguished figure from afar, the prince of Kremnos. This is supposed to be his one chance to prove that he can do much more than just guard the city and still... he's unsure if he can measure up for the task given.

That's why he chose to go to the Garden of Life and clear his mind with some fresh air, distract himself with the playful chimeras that want to stay around him. Surely that will be better than mulling over the same thoughts in an endless circle without coming to a conclusion of his own, no?

Phainon can't ignore the small group of four people chatting among themselves as soon as he reached the Garden of Life, all of them looking towards the same direction. Curious as to what must've drawn their attention, he follows their gaze only to be surprised himself at the sight of Fleurdelys sitting on the grass, her head bowed slightly down to look at something on her lap. His lips curl in a small smile as he straightens his back, hands patting at his clothes to make himself look presentable before he makes a beeline to where she is. The closer he gets to her, the clearer it is the entire picture of what the people gossiping over there on the back were describing. A small chimera in on her lap, amazed at the world around it and overjoyed to receive the attention that the Holy Maiden gives it.

"I didn't know that Lady Fleurdelys has a fondness for chimeras." Who doesn't would be the correct question now that he thinks about it, but he decides to shake his own mistake off swiftly to not make a fool of himself right in front of her, of all people. "Good afternoon." He offers a polite smile to her before his azure gaze descends upon the silver chimera resting on her lap. Then, he reaches out to pet the tiny chimera's head, mindful to not overwhelm it. "Hello, there, little bud." Phainon's smile widens at the positive welcome to his coo, happy to see the feline lean into his touch and rub its little head against his hand, as if asking for more. Of course, he's too weak to the chimera's charm not to oblige. "I hope you don't mind if I steal a bit of our Holy Maiden's attention."

Her understanding of what he meant to truly ask brings him comfort. A sigh eases from his lips in response, his head nods yes before his eyes open at long last. When they do, they widen— surprise mirrored in them. It's the sight of Cartethyia spilling tears that makes his heart twist and clench within his ribcage, the fact that she stayed strong all this time until she could no more. All of it a result of a deeper understanding than what she lets on, even further the reason for Khaslana to think that should any of his plans fail, he can rest assured that she will be there. His hands reach out to hold her face, gentle as feathers caressing skin in a quiet attempt of comfort.

You have done what you could. From now on, leave it to me. Khaslana's surprise doesn't end there at her words. Behind his contained astonishment, he can feel like a weight is released from his burdened shoulders— a feeling that he hasn't felt in a very long time, that he had already forgotten that it exists at all. Wordlessly, he leans in to capture her lips in the most tender kiss a vessel of destruction like him could offer, one thousand feelings poured in one last kiss he hopes that will be repeated somewhere in the not so distant future. Relief, guilt, anticipation... love.

Promise me the dawn graced by stars.

"Thank you." His lips move in a murmur as they graze the Holy Maiden's when their foreheads connect in what he anticipates as their last shared touch. "At the end of this journey... let's meet again at the golden wheat field, under the starry sky..." Just like how they first reunited after thirty million cycles, to start anew. No more dangers, just the two of them in Aedes Elysiae where he can show her its wonderful cuisine and the many wonders he had explored when he was a child.

It's hard to part ways... but it seems our time together is coming to an end. Though it was only a brief moment, I'm truly glad I had the chance to spend time with you. When we meet again someday, I would be so happy if you still remembered me. Will you promise me that?