#mr designer

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Arionus: Return of the Tides

Awakened Suit: Return of the Tides

You can find the original suit here.

And the bonus outfit for the MR Suit:

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Index: Arionus - Watcher of the Depths

Designer’s Reflection: Watcher of the Depths

Awakened form: Return of the Tides

Quality: MR

Attribute: Sexy

Set: Elegant Light Chronicle (Series)

Memory Archive: Plume Forest

~Image~

~Skills/Stats~

Call of Reflection: Evernight Glimmer

Increases Score by 26% of Styling Power; when used in the Hairstyle round, additionally increase Score by 36% of Styling Power.

"The light born from darkness illuminates the brilliant starry sky in the deep sea."

Skill Details: Clear Guardian (dress/top/bottom)

Modeling Skill - Stunning Aura additionally increases Score by 16.7% of your Styling Power.

"Even the most turbulent undercurrents cannot erode the purest soul."

Skill Details: Heart of the Tides (accessories)

Modeling Skill - Shiny Shiny additionally increases Score by 3.4% of your Styling Power.

"Regardless of how the tides change, the sea always remembers the poetry that has been passed down."

Skill Details: Bubbly Dreams (shoes)

Modeling Skill - Brisk Pace additionally increases Score by 16.7% of your Styling Power.

"Before dispersing, embrace the sunlight on the sea once more."

~Profile~

Arionus | Unknown | Unknown

Height: Unknown | DoB: Unknown

The forebear of the Elf of Water left behind the power to seal the Evernight Sea.

About Design

Arionus weeps as Their tears mingle with the depths of the sea, vanishing swiftly.

Yet, within the Abyss's darkest recesses, they coalesce into a crystalline guardian spirit. How could such a diminutive form endure the abyssal currents?

Nonetheless, Arionus chuckles with relief, for Hephaes has imparted the understanding that even the seemingly delicate fire butterflies dare to plunge into the eternal night's waves, invoking the name of a cherished comrade. The mighty god, bearer of the flame, has selected the Holy Grail as Their artifact, driven solely by the will to safeguard.

True power knows no guise; it lies in the guidance of conviction.

In the fleeting moment before succumbing to darkness, Arionus feels a profound resonance with its dear ally, deep within his consciousness.

About Nikki

Upon Nikki, Arionus discerns myriad familiar personas.

There is a child by the shore, gazing upon the boundless ocean with eyes brimming with innocence and anticipation of undiscovered adventures.

There is Krista, her heart as resilient and compassionate as a diamond.

And Hephaes, a beacon of hope amidst darkness, Their gentle yet steadfast strength akin to the morning sun's radiance. 

Should she ever grace these waters, the sea would assuredly heed her call.

True to Self

I am black, the chilling shade beneath the deep waters.

My duty is silence, to cloak my tainted form, and never trespass into the realm of pristine white. 

I am blue, the radiant glow of the newborn moon.

I command the tides, guide rivers and streams, cleansing muddy waves and dust with gentle rain.

I am transparent, the fleeting glow of a mayfly. 

My shell fades into eternal night, consciousness fragmented and scattered in the turmoil, yet the purest essence finds liberation.

In my silent darkness, in the deep blue, in a mayfly's transparency, when the flame descends into the heart of the sea, melding all hues, I become warm and luminous...

I am with you.

Evernight Sea

Initially, there was only boundless darkness. 

The Elf of Water of this sea became pawns of the abyss, chaotic waves swallowing innocent lives. Then, the new moon rose, and Arionus cast a seal, quelling the undercurrents of the sea and pacifying the tempest within the water tribe's psyche.

Over time, Arionus slipped into slumber, and the water tribe faced trials and tribulations, yet that deep blue horizon always loomed above. The Evernight Sea became both their prison and their ultimate sanctuary.

Now, as the fragmented new moon approaches wholeness, the sea's inhabitants tread upon land after a prolonged absence, finally realizing that the protection of the God of Water has never wavered.

What lies ahead?

The Elf of Water gazes skyward, the brilliant light reflected in Their clear eyes.

"I believe I have glimpsed it—the future where the perpetual night fades and the morning sun rises."

Above the Abyss

Born with the power of the abyss, Arionus believed Their fate was to dwell in shadows, destined to return to the depths.

Then came Hephaes, with eyes that outshone all others, casting a smile upon them. In that moment, Arionus understood that nothing is fixed, even the darkest shadow may scatter, and the eternal night over the sea may one day yield to dawn.

The resilience born of battling the abyssal darkness, unsullied by abyssal taint, belongs solely to a soul serene, kind, and true.

Dwarf's Testimony

"Arionus tasked us with making containers impervious to the crushing depths, to safeguard flames."

"It's a gift for Hephaes, and Arionus insists we keep it secret!"

"Many times, when Hephaes visited, I made excuses to send Them away, but I saw a fire butterfly nestle in the cave."

"Arionus kept experimenting with water elements until it nailed down the perfect materials and mix! Even with Their face all dirty, They didn't even care."

"What's the fuss? Arionus could wash it away in an instant."

"But They didn't! Fearing to quench the forge's flame."

"Arionus never stayed away from the furnace, filling the mine with smoke... But Their joy after seeing the flawless outcome was evident!" 

"I wonder if Hephaes ever received the gift?" 

"I have no idea..."

Lost Deep Sea Memory by Aquia

When Savior revealed the truth about Arionus the Ancestor of Water and Hephaes the Elf of Fire, it didn't catch me off guard.

Despite the world expecting them to be adversaries, they stood united against the tempest.

Genuine affection transcends all barriers—be it time and space, life and death, status, or lineage.

In my youth, within the tribe, I had an elder sister named Dorea.

The chieftain proclaimed Dorea bewitched by humans, accusing her of theft and violating tribal laws, sentencing her to a year of seclusion.

During meal times, I was permitted to converse with her, and it was then I noticed a human figure delicately etched on the stone wall, featuring piercing blue eyes.

It was through Dorea that I first glimpsed a perspective of humanity contrary to tribal teachings. 

Many years later, after her release, Dorea expressed a desire to bid farewell to that individual.

Evading the guards, her whereabouts became a mystery, yet her joy was palpable.

I hold firm to the belief that the man with the blue eyes upheld his promise.

Ophelia's Action

Under the Queen's guidance, the Pigeon royal family has enlisted scholars to overhaul the section concerning the Elf of Water in the history books. 

Initially, they expunged the demonizing depictions of the abyssal depths and replaced them with a plethora of images depicting elf leaders, maidens, youngsters, and elders. 

Venturing deep into the Pigeon Forest, they have retrieved stone tablets from the sacred altar and unearthed murals within the dwarf mines, chronicling the feats of the God of Water in Their resistance against the Abyss and safeguarding the realm.

Additionally, they rectified the narrative surrounding the Blazemoon War.

"Your Majesty, this deviates from the accounts in 'Sinfonica'..."

In the face of opposition, Ophelia counters with unwavering resolve, stating:

"Victors inscribe history, yet they mustn't succumb to hubris or partiality. 

Light is everlasting and embraces all truths, even amidst darkness."

~Pieces~

Original Suit

Oceanic Crown (Headwear)

Clear waves form a crown. Light, pure, and unadorned, it shall never fade, like the promise of the Ancestor of Water.

Distant Memory (Hair Ornament)

Time cannot sever memory. It passes through fire and water, death and evernight, linking past and present.

Tidal Rewind (Hairstyle)

The world fears the scepter, but only when the Evernight Sea is under the new moon's light, will the darkness recede.

Will of the Water (Earrings)

Arionus' will forms beautiful creatures, their tiny bodies traveling the growling undertow, chasing away the dark.

Nighttime Glow (Neckwear)

Shimmering waves adorn the water's surface, blurring sea and sky, as if, one day soon, they will meet.

Drifting Longing (Bracelets)

It sways like the fins of a fish, waiting for someone to swim with it in the coral forests and pearlescent skies.

Watcher of the Depths (Dress)

The purest soul, before which the darkest tide fades. It paints a bright future, and a wider world.

Wave Follower (Leglet)

The vapor rises, bringing abundance and life as a drizzle. The Clan of Water follows Arionus, building their kingdom.

Misty Tide (Hosiery)

Pushing away the fog, the moonlight plays a gentle nocturne, putting a light gauze on the winding coastline.

Abyss Journey (Shoes)

The fire still burns bright underwater. The jellyfish glow like blinking stars, casting out the abyss.

Waning Moonsea (Lips)

Hephaes always catches Arionus' subtle smile, like the protection of the God of Water, silently nourishing all things.

Flickering Bubbles (Contact Lens)

A crystal-clear glimmer flickers and emerges in the deep sea, watching for light in the eternal night.

Shattered Moon (Foundation)

Like shattered silver, the moonlight floats among the waves, and the sea surface is as bright as another starry sky.

Deep Blue Shore (Eyelashes)

The blue new moon shines upon the ravine, keeping shadows at bay with the Clan of Water.

Backflow of Time (Eyebrows)

Memories of the past surge with the tides. Water is more merciful than time, and buried thoughts eventually resurface.

Awakened Suit

Oceanic Blessing (Headwear)

Arionus and Hephaes sit side by side on the desolate reef, vowing to see the sun rise over the Evernight Sea.

Deep Sea Gaze (Hair Ornament)

The rain nourishes all, and the spark kindles hope. They may not be together, but they guard the land, side by side.

Moonlit Upstream (Hairstyle)

The blue new moon pierces the dark web. Arionus returns to where They began, freeing Their people from the Abyss.

Wandering Wave (Earrings)

Arionus holds the Abyss at bay with a broken soul. Grudges of yore form irreconcilable misgivings, impossible to remove.

Evernight Arclight (Neckwear)

The shadow of the Abyss eats into Their fragile frame, but They fight it by sealing Themselves under the waves.

Intricate Memories (Bracelets)

If where They began is lost to Them forevermore, then They shall still hold, with Their own two hands, how They end.

Return of the Tides (Dress)

In Their mind, They still see Hephaes just as clearly. The leaping flame encourages Them to hold fast to Themselves.

Rippling Connection (Leglet)

The Abyss took Arionus' mind, but Their will endures in the little jellyfish, withstanding the rift and the looming dark.

Drifting at Sea (Hosiery)

Emotions and memories will guide kindred souls to one another, through any obstacle, always.

Startide Voyage (Shoes)

The errant elf is no longer lost. The Evernight has not yet ended, but the dawn will come, sure as the full moon.

~~

From here on, all descriptions are the same

~Audio~

Summon

“Can crossing that immense chasm lead us through endless night, to reunite where darkness ends?”

Dawn’s Vow

“The moment I see the glint of humor in Hephaes’ golden eyes, I believe even Evernight Sea could one day see a sunrise.”

Evernight Sea

“Evernight Sea is both a cage and a haven for the Water Elves.”

A Promise

“The vow you’ve made to the ocean will sink with the tides, etched into the depths where no one knows.”

Guardian Will

“Just as darkness almost swallowed me whole, I saw its emergence—so light and clear, like the purest, freest spirit.”

Water Elves

“The rain from the skies converges into rivers, which flow into the ocean. It’s where the endless life cycle of the Water Clan begins.”

The Heart’s Haven

“I see the light of the Holy Grail in the chaotic darkness, which illuminates the way home for me.”

Meet

“You have an aura that reminds me of Hephaes—warm and bright, strong yet gentle. It’s oddly comforting.”

Awaken

“Light and dark, good and evil—they’ve always been two sides of the same coin.”

Skill Upgrade

“I’ll devour the darkness until it devours me in turn.”

Designer's Reflection Ascending 2

“Even if I died, I would still protect the continent. I would be creeks, morning dew, heavy showers. I would never leave.”

5-Star Rank Up

“Murky waters are the tears of the darkness, and tinders are the sparks in the eyes of the light.”

4-Star Rank Up

“The abyss never stops calling, but I’ll never give in. Even if it steals my sight, takes over my body, and corrupts my thoughts.”

3-Star Rank Up

“Hephaes’ butterfly would often rest on my shoulders. I’m extra careful when this happens in case I drown it.”

2-Star Rank Up

“Shards of moonlight are reflected on the dark Lake Bovaly, like stars that drifted upward from the Abyss.”

Designer's Reflection Ascending 1

“The water droplets from my fingertips could become raindrops that nourish all living beings… Or churning waves that devour all.”

Select

“The ocean’s hidden treasures aren’t dying to be discovered, but if you’re all ears, they’ll spill their secrets.”

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Chapter 5: Abyss and Light

Narrated by Arionus.

Narrator: "Finding a way to completely stop the erosion of the Abyss"... I've actually been investigating and planning this for a long time.

Narrator: The bottom of Lake Bovaly connects to the Ocean of Memories, meaning the Abyss could erode the roots of the Tree of Life through the lake bed.

Narrator: According to plan, I've finally become strong enough to seal the rift closest to the Abyss in the Evernight Sea, and this will weaken the influence of the Abyss.

Narrator: This is the best opportunity. The power of my "seed" has grown to its peak.

Narrator: With that power, I may stand a chance against the Abyss and completely sever the connection between the Abyss and the tree roots.

Narrator: But I'm hesitating... for many reasons.

Narrator: After pacifying the Evernight Sea, I've been traveling between the sea and the forest, ensuring the stability of the seal.

Narrator: I suggested that my people relocate to more secure waters and let Flo help some of them find a new home in the forest.

Narrator: But most chose to stay, using their skills and wisdom to build their own cities and civilizations over time.

Narrator: I respect their choice. Water Elves should be free, unbound in form, wandering through the vast world.

Narrator: Hephaes once said They envy the Water Elves, because they and other elves will become weakened once they leave the forest.

Narrator: After returning to the forest from the Evernight Sea, Hephaes has rested for many days in the Magma Mine. In the silent slumber, the flames around Them seem dimmer than usual.

Narrator: Whenever I recall Hephaes lending Their power to the lighthouse at the coast, warmth washes over my heart, and I want to do something in return.

Narrator: Perhaps I can build a unique residence at the sea bottom, allowing Hephaes to enjoy Their time in the Evernight Sea freely and comfortably.

Narrator: I summon the dwarf craftsmen to the mine. They've always acted reserved and polite before me with Hephaes around, but now the entire mine is oddly silent.

Narrator: But when I present my idea, the dwarves' eyes light up.

Dwarf Riem: Fascinating! Forging a container that the deep sea's pressure won't crush!

Dwarf Salm: If with Lord Hephaes' flames, we'd find the optimal formula much quicker...

Arionus: This is a gift, so we can't ask Hephaes for help. Make sure not to let Hephaes know about this, or...

Narrator: Before I can utter the words "or it would spoil the surprise," the dwarves hastily assure me that they will keep the secret.

Narrator: They might have mistaken my intention for a dreadful threat, but seeing that the goal of maintaining secrecy is achieved, I simply nod in agreement.

Narrator: I've also received my first invitation to the Flower Feast.

Narrator: By appeasing the Evernight Sea, I've proved myself and had the faith of the God of Water known by more people.

Narrator: As favorable weather graces the forest, the attitude of the elves toward me has softened considerably.

Narrator: At the feast, Eusius doesn't oppose my presence.

Narrator: By Their side stands a young elf, who greets me with a smile and a nod. The elf is named Aloysius, born in response to the beauty of nature.

Narrator: Eusius and Aloysius are close. Perhaps because Aloysius was born in the lakes, Eusius has tempered Their demeanor toward me in Aloysius' presence.

Narrator: In these unprecedented tranquil moments, the rivers shimmer with vibrant hues, and the breeze carries the scent of sunlight.

Narrator: It feels as if the future Hephaes envisioned is not so distant from our grasp.

Narrator: I start to imagine that perhaps we do not need such drastic measures after all.

Narrator: Instead, by diligently preserving the current stability, we might still be able to protect the Tree of Life.

Narrator: But my hopes and my wishful thinking eventually cannot prevent the arrival of "fate."

Narrator: At the end of the forest, a leaf from the Tree of Life gently lands on my shoulder. Within it, I discern the familiar presence of dark shadows flowing through its veins.

Hephaes: Arionus, why are you spacing out? The weather's great today, and the flowers bloom even more upon your arrival.

Narrator: Hephaes brushes off the leaf with a smile, not noticing anything unusual.

Narrator: Bathed in this warm sunlight, a chill envelops me, as if I have stumbled into an icy cave.

Narrator: I recall the initial panic upon my arrival in the forest, unintentionally eroding a branch, the plans I set aside, and the clues I deliberately ignored.

Narrator: I've detected the shadow of the Abyss within the waterways. It seems to have infiltrated the elves' barrier and reached the roots of the Tree of Life.

Narrator: Hephaes mentioned the concerning state of the Tree of Life. Despite the postponed feast, there was a noticeable decline in the number of flowers blooming.

Narrator: All clues align to one conclusion: the Abyss has reached the Tree of Life and begun its erosion.

Narrator: With Hephaes' help, I quickly put my plan into action. However, fate plays a cruel prank on me.

Narrator: Never in my wildest imagination have I expected that as the power from the erupting seed successfully seals the rift in the Spring, the Abyss would shift its focus toward me.

Narrator: Devoid of my soul, I have no strength to defend myself. Facing the accusations of the elves, a moment's hesitation allows the abyss to exploit my vulnerability.

Narrator: I should be able to maintain my composure, but waves of dark emotions surge within me. The black currents envelop me, growing deeper and turning into a fierce assault.

Narrator: To avoid irreversible consequences, I have no choice but to leave the forest and head towards the distant sea.

Narrator: The deep and turbulent sea seems to be brewing a storm again.

Narrator: I yearn to shield myself from the relentless whispers of the Abyss that echo in my ears, but the anguished cries of my people carried within make it impossible to ignore.

Arionus: Why does everything I protect still fall into the abyss of pain?

Narrator: The thick night sky opens its profound eyes, and under its gaze, the vast sea churns with towering waves. For the first time, I hear a voice from the Star Sea.

Voice from the Star Sea: Water Elf, this is your destiny.

Voice from the Star Sea: You are the cursed child of the Abyss, destined to fall into it. Your blessings will turn into curses, your protection into a cage.

Narrator: The moment the voice sounds, I realize it's the god of nature who resides above the Star Sea.

Narrator: Only They possess the power to effortlessly dominate my will, compelling me to gaze upward in acknowledgement of Their presence and to heed Their words.

Narrator: However, prior to this moment, They had never bestowed any revelations upon me.

Narrator: It is difficult to fathom how, in the face of the plight of beings, they can maintain such aloofness.

Arionus: The Abyss' erosion will eventually destroy this land, and your people will face calamity. Are you going to do nothing about it?

Narrator: The god chuckles disdainfully.

Narrator: In the void, they reveal ruins and remnants in a torrent, where the tears of the saintess had long dried, leaving only an abyss of despair in her hollow eyes.

Narrator: Delmond, the kingdom I had once blessed, has been obliterated under the deep sea's curse.

Voice from the Star Sea: The rise and fall of existence is a mere fleeting moment.

Voice from the Star Sea: If insignificant beings attempt to challenge the authority of the gods, the arrogant humans shall inevitably reap the fruits of their hubris.

Voice from the Star Sea: Pitiful child of the Abyss, I respond to you because you made the right choice, protecting the sacred forest.

Voice from the Star Sea: You shelter humans with impure power, igniting their greed and accelerating the decay of this despicable civilization.

Voice from the Star Sea: The Abyss is but a mire to contain filth, and it is only fitting that scum finds its home in the mire.

Narrator: Their words rang with arrogance and scorn as if They believed They had generously bestowed a gift.

Arionus: It turns out the god of nature never saw us as children, but as scum that can be discarded at any time.

Arionus: So you think the Abyss will never threaten the Star Sea, and you can forever watch from high above as we struggle and perish?

Narrator: I sneer and raise my New Moon Scepter.

Arionus: One's origin does not determine their destiny, whether it's me from the Abyss or the god from the Star Sea.

Narrator: The god pauses momentarily, followed by a derisive laugh.

Narrator: Suddenly, thunderous roars from above reverberate, displaying their wrath and formidable might, with the intent to annihilate me.

Arionus: No longer constrained by an inherent curse, I will not plead for the Star Sea's mercy. I will exert my will and do everything within my power to alter the fate-scripted ending.

Narrator: With determination, I point the New Moon Scepter at myself, its radiant light seemingly tearing my soul apart.

Narrator: The dark shadows within me unleash an anguished howl. And in that moment, I break free from the god's grip, plunging into the sea.

Narrator: The fall seems to stretch on indefinitely.

Narrator: In the tumultuous waters, bubbles ascend like echoes of my soul, carrying fragments of memories from the past that flicker before me one after another.

Narrator: When I followed my heart and walked out of the chaotic night...

Narrator: When Hephaes embraced my filth, I, too, opened my heart to embrace the light and warmth.

Narrator: When we joined hands to appease the storm and listened to the breath of the tides together.

Narrator: I made a promise in my heart to witness the first sunrise at the end of the eternal night with Hephaes.

Narrator: It turns out I have always been chasing the light.

Arionus: I will never yield to the Abyss.

Narrator: Even if it takes my eyes, occupies my body, and contaminates my mind, I will hold onto the will to protect until the very end, fighting against fate one last time.

Narrator: With my battered body, I stay above the rift and build the final bastion against the dark tides of the Abyss.

Narrator: The shadow of the Abyss finds itself locked in a stalemate against my will, unable to fully breach the seal.

Narrator: I've lost the sense of time. As my consciousness grows numb, on the brink of being consumed by darkness, a gentle warmth traces down the corners of my eyes.

Narrator: Tears fall into the sea, perhaps to be forever lost in the depths and concealed from the knowledge of others, like my unfulfilled wishes and regrets.

Narrator: Have I failed in the end?

Narrator: My eyes, though already obscured by darkness, sense a faint glimmer. Like a fragile candle fmale that bravely persists in a gust, it flickers amidst the tumultuous currents.

Narrator: They rise on light bubbles, transforming into light, transparent little beings. So tiny, yet so resilient.

Narrator: I watch them leap into the whirlpools stirred by the dark tide, their tiny bodies radiating with a dazzling white light, purifying the somber waves into clear streams.

Narrator: I remember countless painful and silent nights when I lay at the cold lake bottom, looking up at the delicate yet eternal moonlight that wasn't mine.

Narrator: But this time, I'm the one who created this tiny yet resilient light.

Hephaes: As long as the heart that wishes to protect is pure, the power used for protection is also pure. Arionus, I will always believe in you and always stand by your side.

Arionus: Hephaes, I did it.

~~

In the depths, my back is turned to the Abyss. My body descends into the veil of darkness. Yet my soul, untouched by any stain, embraces the light above.

~~

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Chapter 4: Sea and Promise

Narrated by Arionus.

Narrator: After I pass the trial of the elves, the New Moon Scepter has strengthened my power, and my control over water has grown more proficient.

Narrator: While I am still forbidden from entering the "Source Spring"...

Narrator: Witnessing the joyful life of the beings inhabiting the forest waters and the thriving of the Water Elves is sufficient solace for me.

Narrator: I'm now ready to return to that place of origin.

Arionus: I'll be leaving the forest for a while to head to the distant sea. To free myself from the grip of the Abyss, investigating the place of my birth is necessary.

Narrator: Sitting atop the Tree of Life, I gaze at the distant coastline. Hearing my decision, Hephaes shows a moment of surprise but soon gives me a nod of acknowledgement.

Hephaes: Have you discussed this with Eusius and the others?

Arionus: Yes. I've convinced them.

Narrator: After I promised, "If my power goes out of control, I will never return to the forest."

Narrator: Hephaes doesn't pry into the details. They seem happy for me, with vibrant flames dancing by their side.

Hephaes: Arionus, let me go with you.

Arionus: Huh?

Hephaes: Let's treat it as a trip of nostalgia. I'd love to visit your homeland in person.

Hephaes: You're not going to reject me, are you? We've agreed that I'll help you break away from the Abyss, so we'll face it together.

Narrator: Hephaes' tone sounds light-hearted, but Their gaze is firm. I know no words can persuade Hephaes to change Their mind.

Arionus: Alright, but...

Arionus: The Abyss might be my origin, but it's not my homeland. A homeland should be a place where one finds solace and comfort.

Narrator: I unconsciously soften my voice, my eyes fixed on Hephaes. Within Their eyes, I see the reflection of both myself and the expansive forest.

Hephaes: Then, let's see it as a long journey between you and me. With our current powers, we'll overcome any dangers.

Narrator: This sea is forever shrouded in eternal night. The roars of tides and the restless shrieks of the Water Elves resonate throughout layers of fog.

Narrator: Upon my return, the Abyssal Power lurking in the sea chasm has been more relentless, corrupting the Water Elves residing here.

Narrator: With their consciousness lost, they are consumed by frenzied battles.

Narrator: Murky tides surge, transforming into colossal waves. I lift my New Moon Scepter, its azure glow crashing down like thunder, carrying my commands across every corner of the sea.

Arionus: The Water Elves are the rulers of the sea. Heed the call of the new moon, and join me to liberate your souls!

Narrator: Under my command, the Water Elves awaken, their once-shaded eyes now illuminated by a radiant azure light.

Narrator: In their clear and melodious voices, they call out my name. Transforming into various forms, they fearlessly plunge into the tumultuous waves and engage in fierce battles.

Narrator: Yet the source of the storm persist... a dark tide originating from the depths of the sea. Deep inside, I know I'm the only one who can reach it.

Narrator: I look back and gaze at Hephaes, whose body radiates a luminous glow akin to a brilliant torch in the boundless cold night.

Narrator: Holding the Holy Grail, Hephaes' eternal flame gleams like the morning sun through the storm, guiding ships lost in the fog and sheltering affected creatures.

Narrator: Hephaes' calm and resolute gaze meets mine across the surging waves.

Narrator: In that fleeting moment, the ceaseless clamor of the sea seems to hush, and Hephaes' voice is the only sound that reaches my ears.

Hephaes: I'll be waiting for you on the shore.

Narrator: I no longer hesitate and rush into the eternal darkness of the night.

Narrator: Dark seawater and thick fog intertwine, spiraling into a vast vortex... a passage to the sea chasm, also the eye of the Abyss.

Narrator: Clutching my New Moon Scepter, I spread my arms and leap into it.

Narrator: Dark tides surge ceaselessly, trying to ensnare me within their grasp. An unprecedented agony courses through my body, like thousands of blades piercing my flesh.

Narrator: I hold my breath, concentrating all my strength to resist this fierce erosion.

Narrator: A massive chasm stretches across the bottom of the sea.

Narrator: It finally dawns on me that the image of the new moon etched on my mind at my birth is, in fact, the reflection of this very chasm.

Narrator: It gazes at me, mocking my resistance, intending to drag me into the doom of nothingness.

Narrator: Both the storms raging on the surface and the undercurrents stirring from below converge like sharks drawn to prey, gravitating toward me.

Narrator: Perfect.

Narrator: In an instant, the blue gem adorning the tip of my scepter erupts into a radiant light, piercing through the tumultuous darkness of the night.

Narrator: Having broken free from the eternal night's cage, I stand atop the clear waves and overlook the shadows dissipating in the light.

Narrator: A blue radiance forms a massive seal within the rift. As the winds subside and the waves grow tranquil, the true new moon rises in the night sky.

Narrator: Henceforth, the era of chaos and savagery in the Evernight Sea comes to an end.

Narrator: The sea is no longer only defined by storms and tumultuous waves, but also by the ebb and flow of tides that shift with the new moon.

Hephaes: Such a beautiful moon.

Narrator: Hephaes and I sit back-to-back on the rocks. Hephaes' eyes are filled with wonder and joy as we witness the new moon rising over the Evernight Sea for the very first time.

Arionus: Unfortunately, every time the new moon rises, the power in the rift still needs to be released periodically.

Arionus: The seal can only suppress its influence, preventing it from harming nearby beings.

Hephaes: Well, why not think of it this way?

Hephaes: It's precisely because of the new moon that people can prepare for the storm before it arrives, and enjoy the tranquil moonlight after it passes.

Hephaes: The new moon offers guidence, and redemption.

Narrator: A fire butterfly gently caresses my cheek as if offering encouragement and comfort.

Narrator: On the shore, the lighthouse casts a warm glow, like a tender gaze that has long watched over the sea.

Arionus: Guidance and redemption... Hephaes, that sounds more like what you've done. That lighthouse was created by you just now, wasn't it?

Hephaes: You saw it! An eternal flame is burning inside, ensuring that even amidst fog and storms, fishing boats can find their way back as long as it remains lighted.

Arionus: Thank you, Hephaes. The Evernight Sea may forever be shrouded in darkness, but with this lighthouse, it feels like we have our own sun now.

Hephaes: Now it's like both the sun and the moon hanging in the sky, a truly remarkable miracle. Hey, Arionus, we created a miracle!

Narrator: As Hephaes' cheerful tone reaches my ears, my worries begin to dissipate.

Narrator: The light of the new moon intertwines with the lighthouse's radiance, blurring our reflections on the sea surface.

Hephaes: Actually... I believe that one day, the Evernight Sea will see the real sun.

Narrator: Hephaes' voice is soft but carries a profound conviction.

Hephaes: Because you are growing stronger, Arionus. If you can completely seal the shadows one day, the night here will likely end, and the sun will rise the next day.

Arionus: Ah...

Narrator: I wanted to deny this wish that seemed too bold, but for some reason, I didn't.

Narrator: Perhaps deep down, I do harbor such hopes, buried under countless cold, dark moments long ago. However, Hephaes always can ignite the spark of hope within me.

Hephaes: Arionus, you're also imagining the sunrise over the Evernight Sea right now, aren't you?

Arionus: How... how did you know?

Narrator: From behind, Hephaes' chuckle fills the air, and I can't help but let out a sigh, admitting that Hephaes has seen through my thoughts.

Arionus: I'll give it a try, finding a way to completely stop the erosion of the Abyss.

Hephaes: It's okay, Arionus. Even without a sunrise, the glow of the lighthouse will continue to illuminate the sea... And I will... always be by your side.

Narrator: Hephaes' voice takes on a nasal tone as it lowers, and I can sense Their steady breathing through the thin layers of clothing. They must be tired.

Arionus: Good night, Hephaes.

Narrator: Under the tranquil night sky and clear moonlight, the sea is serenaded by the soft lullaby of the tide.

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 5

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Chapter 2: Mist Clears

Narrated by Hephaes.

Narrator: This year's rainy season lingers unusually long, and while it hasn't caused any floods, the elves remain concerned about Arionus' unstable powers.

Narrator: Following Arionus' scent, I arrive at a swamp I've never seen before, where crows circle ominously.

Hephaes: Arionus, what are you facing alone again...

Narrator: I once nearly drowned in the dark currents of Lake Bovaly. It was Arionus who saved me, and from that accident, I learned of Arionus' pain.

Narrator: I believe, even now, Arionus is somewhere, silently protecting the peace of the forest.

Narrator: I can't keep relying on Arionus to save me. I should proceed with caution.

Narrator: Taking a deep breath, I steady myself to fly just above the swamp. The intermittent light from fire butterflies gradually disperses the fog, leading me to an open woodland.

Narrator: To my surprise, I'm greeted by the sight of a giant mushroom, its cap towering like a tree's crown. And beneath it stands a familiar blue figure.

Arionus: Hephaes, it's very dangerous around here...

Narrator: Arionus clearly didn't expect me to find this place, Their face filled with surprise and worry. But I've already rushed up, bombarding Them with a flurry of questions.

Hephaes: Arionus, how have you been? There were a few sudden heavy rains that stopped quickly. Did you have something to do with them?

Hephaes: And how can a mushroom grow so tall?! Is this a new spell you learned?

Narrator: Arionus pulls me under the mushroom cap, avoiding a muddy puddle. They examine me closely, as if to confirm I'm unharmed, before finally easing up.

Arionus: When the rainy season started, I feared my unstable power might flood the forest's heart. So I found this distant wood where the marsh can contain the overflowing water.

Arionus: This mushroom... was an accident. Never expected it to absorb so much water day after day and grow as towering as a tree.

Hephaes: Maybe it thought you were working too hard, so it wanted to grow tall quickly, offering you a shelter to rest.

Narrator: Arionus has indeed been working too hard. I, too, wish They could find proper rest.

Arionus: I'm still not strong enough, only able to use such a clumsy method to transfer water. This swamp has endured too much in a brief span.

Arionus: A hefty burden will also harm the soil here. There is already a murky sediment that needs to be removed as soon as possible.

Hephaes: Let my power of flame help you.

Arionus: You've endured needless suffering, staying by my side as I suppress the Abyssal Power. Please, do not expend any more of your power on me.

Narrator: I softly call Arionus' name, interrupting Them.

Hephaes: Arionus, we're best friends, so it's okay for you to rely on me a bit more.

Narrator: Fire butterflies gracefully emerge from my sleeves and hair. They landed on the swamp without heeding the filth, focused only on drawing the moist sediment from the soil.

Narrator: After a long day's work, we finally find solace beneath the giant mushroom cap, enjoying a peaceful night's rest.

Narrator: When we wake up, the mist has dissipated, and the drizzle has subsided.

Narrator: The early sun casts its radiant glow upon the woodland, connecting the clear sky and the glistening waters after the rain.

Hephaes: The rainy season is over, Arionus!

Narrator: I pull Arionus along with me to the top of the mushroom cap, where a cool breeze caresses us. Feeling its refreshing touch, I can't help but tilt my head back and shake my hair.

Arionus: Hephaes, there are some raindrops left on your hair.

Narrator: Water droplets from my hair sparkle in the sunlight. With a mere gesture of Their finger, Arionus banishes the lingering rainwater, conjuring a small rainbow at the same time.

Chapter 1

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5