Hyper-vigilance, a honed sense, the need to consume time with deeds is no longer his reality. It's peaceful inaction now ⸻ a flurry of the simplest delights and accompanying silence upholds a near alien experience, though he wholly embraces it. He finds himself mesmerized, taken by the simplicity of a streamlined existence, a predictable schedule elevated by a spontaneity involving no remote relevance to death. And below, resting silent and bundled, was a head of fluffy grey not belonging to his wife. Rather, his son, newborn and fragile, clinging with wholesome dependence. Cheeks dusted rose, donning his mother's tresses ⸻ cooled ash ⸻ a remnant of the North, persevering through youth ( surely some part of his genes prevailed ? ) He'd laugh if he didn't risk disturbing their son's peace, and tugs the blanket sheltering them both to preserve the warmth betwixt them.
❛ I didn't realize I slept for so long. ❜
How odd for him to lose track of time.
time had changed so much in the past few months. just a few moons ago was she waiting for his return from Origin in one piece. not even a year ago were they fighting their largest demons. yet all of that felt so far away now. time had slowed down. allowed them to enjoy the peace & the silence they've been awarded. a few nights ago did they for once welcome a tiny disturbance to that silence. but for this she would always graciously accept being awoken in the middle of the night for.
named after someone so special to their hearts. it was a name immediately given once announced a happy baby boy had arrived. overwhelming joy & love poured over them. along with a large sense of peace. perhaps they became parents too soon ⸻ but she would not have it any other way. their son was their symbol of a new life. new beginnings. everything his namesake begun fighting for. everything that they finished fighting for.
a shift within Clive's arms. Cid's eyes fluttered open ⸻ a beautiful, deep blue color. matching those of his father's. his mouth opened wide for a yawn. she hummed, stroking his cheek. nuzzling herself against Clive some more.
❛ I woke up not too long ago myself. it seems like the two of you are on the same schedule, now. ❜
a soft smile forms. Torgal rested at their feet. attentive as ever. Clive held the two of them within his arms. her eyes didn't move from Cid. she was told by the ladies of the village to soak these beginning moments for as long as she could ⸻ & she took that very seriously. nothing aside from the care of their newborn & Torgal pressed their time. the village was booming thanks to Clive's handywork. he worked hard to rest just as well.
she thinks about how nine moons ago their biggest foe was Barnabas & Ultima. now their biggest challenge was time itself.
❛ I learn something new every time I look at him. I believe he has your nose. ❜
