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Chapter Text

Mio found herself sprawled out on the terrace of her room, her weight resting on her elbows as she gazed up at the night sky. The distant hum of the party was still audible, a constant reminder of the celebration happening below. As the night wore on, she noticed the dwindling number of guests, and a sigh of relief escaped her lips.

A pang of guilt washed over her, causing her stomach to churn uncomfortably. She couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed by the festivities. After all, it was her birthday, a day meant for joy and celebration. Her family - her mother, father, aunts, and sisters - had gone to great lengths to ensure the party was a memorable one. After all, being thirty years old, only happens once in a lifetime.

Why… why couldn’t she just be happy? Why couldn’t she just celebrate carefree as all her peers? Why was there a perpetual pain in her chest, a void that seemed impossible to fill? As her gaze fell upon the source of her sorrow, tears welled up in her eyes. Bionis, the world where her beloved Noah resided, seemed as distant as ever.

As time passed, contrary to all predictions, Alrest and Bionis were drifting further apart. When she and her friends had defeated Z, it had seemed as though the worlds were on the verge of merging once again. She vividly remembered a moment from her childhood when she was eleven, playing the flute at a concert in which she thought she had spotted Noah in the audience. The sight had startled her, causing her to abruptly stop playing, much to the concern of the onlookers. She had chased after what turned out to be nothing more than a shadow. Since that day, the worlds had begun to separate definitively.

When she sought answers from her mother, Queen Nia, she was met with a disheartening confirmation. Despite all their predictions, it was unlikely that the worlds would ever reconnect.

In the quiet solitude of her room, she let out her emotions. Her tears fell silently, each one a testament to the overwhelming feelings that surged through her like a relentless tide. Year after year, she had made a solemn vow to herself to do everything she could to reunite with him, once again. She had even persuaded her mother to establish all the scientific divisions in Alrest, with the singular goal of inventing a device that would enable a connection between the two worlds. Yet, despite their tireless efforts, success remained elusive.

However, with each passing year, the hope she carried started to flicker, its once bright light dimming steadily. Today, for the first time in her life, she found herself yearning for the sweet oblivion of forgetfulness. She wished to erase him from her memory, to expunge the feelings she harbored for him, the shared moments, the lives they had built together, and the child they had brought into the world.

Her sobs grew louder, echoing the torment of her thoughts. She was wracked with guilt for even allowing such thoughts to enter her mind. She had made a promise to Noah, a promise to reunite with him. She needed to be strong, for him and herself.

But the truth was, she was exhausted. Exhausted from the constant struggle, the relentless battle against her feelings. A part of her yearned for a simpler life, a life where she could find someone else to love, to marry, to build a new life with. But the mere thought of moving on filled her with terror. It felt as if she was losing Noah all over again, and the pain was simply unbearable.

“Mimi?” The soft, familiar voice pierced through the fog of her thoughts, offering a momentary respite from her inner turmoil. Recognizing the voice instantly, she hastily wiped away her tears with the hem of her elegant silver dress and attempted to muster a smile.

“Hey, Sena! Oh, and Taion, you’re here too. I’m sorry, I just needed a moment to myself. Aunt Mythra’s chatter was a bit too much!” She tried to inject some humor into her voice, but she knew that deceiving her closest friends was an impossible task. Sena’s eyes were also glistening with unshed tears. Without uttering a word, she rushed over and enveloped Mio in a comforting embrace.

“Mio, there’s no need to put on a facade for us,” Taion sighed, adjusting his glasses - a habit he had inherited from Aionios. He joined them, standing silently by their side, his gaze fixed on Bionis. Despite his stoic demeanor, Mio could see the sadness reflected in his eyes. His hands, clenched into fists, trembled slightly.

“Taion’s right, Mimi,” Sena whispered, her arms still wrapped around Mimi. “If you need to cry, just let it out. We’re here for you.”

“Thank you, guys…” Mio’s voice broke into a sob, and she finally allowed herself to release the pent-up emotions, finding solace in Sena’s comforting hold, as she always did.

****

“You’re doing what?!” Mio’s voice rose in disbelief, a stark contrast to her usual composed demeanor. Sena’s complexion turned ashen as she gaped at their friend standing before them.

“I’m getting married,” Taion reiterated, his tone as matter-of-fact as if he were discussing a routine grocery run. For a fleeting moment, he wondered if he should have phrased his announcement differently, to sound more… emotionally invested, perhaps? But he quickly dismissed the thought. There was no point in deceiving his closest friends.

“But… why?!” Sena’s voice was laced with concern. She had never considered herself particularly brilliant, but this decision seemed utterly nonsensical to her.

“Why not?” he responded, striving to maintain his composure. “Lexy and I have been together for five years. It seems like the logical progression of our relationship.”

Mio’s gaze bore into him so intensely that he felt a chill run down his spine. “It was her idea, wasn’t it?” she asked, her voice devoid of emotion. Taion met her gaze and nodded slowly.

“Indeed, it was her idea. But her arguments were persuasive enough to convince me.”

“Convince you?!” Mio was taken aback by what she was hearing. Was he losing his mind? Taion, their friend who was always so rational, thoughtful, and intelligent, was planning to marry someone he didn’t even love?! Why?!

“But Tai!” Sena chimed in, her voice filled with worry. “You’ve told us time and time again that you don’t love Lexy! And she doesn’t love you!”

“That’s correct,” Taion sighed. “Look, I know it seems like an odd decision, but I’ve given it a lot of thought, and there are several benefits to us getting married.”

“So, you’re getting married just because it’s convenient?!” Mio knew she shouldn’t be so frustrated. It was his decision, his life. She had no right to question his choices. But his eyes told a different story. It seemed there was more he wasn’t saying, or couldn’t say. She also had the impression that he was avoiding her gaze.

“Yes. From a tax perspective and in terms of bureaucracy, those are two significant advantages,” he sighed and finally met her gaze again. “I… I’m just trying to find happiness…” And then Mio understood. She saw the sorrow in his eyes, the sadness, and a silent plea for help.

He was trying to move on… He had lost all hope of reuniting with Eunie. He didn’t want to end up like her, living on hope and being consumed by it. This realization hit her like a punch to the gut, and all her anger, all her frustration, simply evaporated. While Sena continued to voice her objections, Mio gently cut her off.

“Okay, Taion. If this is what you truly want, then we’ll be more than happy to help organize the wedding, if you’d like.” Taion offered a soft smile, grateful for her understanding, while Sena continued to grumble about his decision.

***

As Alex glanced at her bustling schedule, she realized that Taion’s birthday was fast approaching. A thought crossed her mind - should she plan a surprise party for her husband? After all, that’s what a devoted wife would do, right? She mulled over this idea as she watched him in the distance.

Taion was engrossed in his task, meticulously crushing the dried leaves of a plant he had cultivated in their home garden. Alex had never quite understood his fascination with herbal tea. Despite his sporadic attempts to share his passion with her, especially during the early stages of their relationship, she had never developed a taste for his unique blends. For her, a beverage, aside from the essential water, should be practical, like coffee or energy drinks.

She continued to observe him as he moved around their kitchen. Taion had always been a delightful companion, both in Alrest and back in Aionios. His intelligence, rationality, sharp wit, good looks, and reliability were qualities she admired. However, he detested being referred to as ‘reliable’. She vividly remembered the first time she had complimented him on his reliability. His reaction had been unexpected - he had looked at her as if she had deeply offended him, his face turning pale and his body stiffening. He had tersely asked her to refrain from using that term to describe him. His response had taken her aback, and she had tried to probe further, given that Taion was usually so rational. But he had retreated into silence, not explaining.

Lexy let out a soft sigh, her thoughts drifting back to the memory as she sat comfortably on the sofa, immersed in her book. She was happy with her life with Taion, and more specifically with her job. She had risen to the position of CEO of one of Alrest’s most prestigious technology companies, and her exceptional career trajectory and the success of her company in the biomedical and military sectors had earned her the title of ‘Businesswoman of the Year’ the previous year.

Every move she made was calculated, a trait that Taion admired about her. As she climbed the corporate ladder, Taion had been her steadfast supporter, guiding her to make the right decisions that would expedite her journey to leadership. The decision to marry was also a strategic move on her part. She had faced criticism for appearing to be a woman devoid of interests outside of her work, and she was determined to prove them wrong. While her job was of paramount importance to her, she also valued her life outside of work and understood the significance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

This understanding played a crucial role in swaying even the most skeptical individuals, convincing them to support her nomination for the CEO position. Her marriage to Taion was not just a personal commitment, but also a strategic move that demonstrated her ability to balance her personal and professional life, further solidifying her position as a capable leader.

“Would you like some coffee? I can whip it up while my water is boiling,” Taion’s voice broke through her trance, pulling her back to the present.

“That sounds wonderful, thank you,” she responded after a brief pause. He acknowledged her with a nod and set about preparing the moka pot for her. Taion was always considerate, the epitome of an ideal husband in the eyes of an outsider. He was supportive of her decisions, shared equally in household chores, and was a pillar of support in her professional life.

However, there were times when they felt like strangers sharing a life. Their union was one of convenience: Alex sought stability and a semblance of a personal life outside of her work, while Taion was attempting to escape his past and forget what could have been. They cared for each other, but their bond was more akin to friendship than romantic love.

Lexy let out another sigh, her gaze drifting away from Taion and out the window. She had convinced herself that she was content with her life. Everything was going according to her grand life plan.

But then, what was this nagging sensation, this tiny void that had begun to form in her chest?

***

Alexandria took another look at herself in the mirror, her teeth gritted in frustration. The reflection staring back at her was unflinchingly honest. There it was - another strand of white hair. And what was that faint line etching its way onto the corner of her vibrant green eyes?

“Fuck,” she muttered under her breath, her fingers reaching out for the foundation once more. Perhaps she needed to invest in a heavier formula, something that could mask the emerging wrinkles on her face more effectively. She scrutinized her reflection in the bathroom mirror, her expression hardened with determination. Despite the signs of aging, she was undeniably still an attractive woman. Her body was toned and fit, a testament to her regular fitness regimen. Her hair, soft as silk, cascaded down her shoulders, and she certainly didn’t look her age of forty.

As she continued to study her reflection, her hand instinctively moved to her chest, to the spot where she once bore a magnificent green crystal in Aionios. It wasn’t the crystal itself that mattered, but rather, what it symbolized. Her gaze shifted from the mirror, landing on her husband who was shirtless in the bedroom. She took in the sight of the blue triangular crystal embedded in his chest, its glow a striking contrast against his dark skin. As she observed him, she arrived at the same conclusion she always did.

Taion seemed to be defying the natural process of aging, or at least, it was happening at an agonizingly slow pace. He certainly didn’t look like he was in his early forties. Ever since she had awakened in Alrest, her memories from Aionios had gradually returned, filling her mind with information about her original world. She was well-versed in the identities of the Flesh Eater, Blade Eater, Blade, and others. Even though she had possessed a crystal core in Aionios, she was a Human in Alrest. But that didn’t bother her. The prospect of a long life held little appeal for her. She preferred to shine brightly for a short while, rather than slowly fade away. She wanted to leave this world while her star was still burning brightly in the sky, outshining all others.

Yet, there was an emptiness in her chest that had been growing for the past ten years. Each year, it felt heavier than the last. She found herself questioning her happiness. She was happy, wasn’t she? She should be.

Her husband was as caring as ever, their intimate moments were fulfilling, and her company had just acquired the second-largest high-tech firm in Alrest. All of this was thanks to her - her ability to hold the reins of power firmly, to convince investors that she was the right woman to lead this new venture.

She bit her lip nervously. Why did she feel like something was missing in her life? Her mind had been subtly suggesting an answer for a long time, but she had been refusing to listen to that irrational part of her brain. But this morning was different. Perhaps it was the discovery of another white hair, or the fact that her birthday was tomorrow, or the heaviness of the void in her chest that seemed more profound than ever. For a moment, she felt as if she was on the verge of drowning.

“What’s on your mind, Lexy?” Taion inquired, his eyes reflecting a hint of concern. She returned his gaze, taking a moment to study him. He had grown taller since their time in Aionios, and his physique was more defined. Their home boasted a gym in the basement where Lexy attended private fitness sessions with a personal trainer four times a week. After some initial hesitation, Taion had also started to join her for workouts twice a week. His decision had taken her by surprise, and when she had sought an explanation, he had simply shrugged and responded, “From a rational perspective, exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy body. Plus, I thought it wouldn’t hurt to spend more time with you. It’s what a good husband should do.” She hadn’t probed further, content with the prospect of spending more time together. Perhaps, deep down, she had harbored hopes of them growing closer. But that hadn’t really happened.

“Nothing in particular,” she responded slowly, her voice barely above a whisper. He turned to face her fully, his attention undivided.

“I know you well enough to know that’s not true,” he retorted gently, his gaze attempting to decipher her.

What could she possibly say to him now? Should she admit that she was coming to terms with her own aging and that she felt a void in her life, a void that he couldn’t fill? She was on the verge of voicing these thoughts, but then she stopped herself. It would be grossly unfair to him. After all, he wasn’t the only one who couldn’t provide what the other wanted. She had lost count of the number of times she had caught him tenderly caressing an old, dirt-stained white feather that he kept in his tea recipe book. Her memories of Aionios were growing fainter with each passing year, but she couldn’t forget the girl to whom that feather belonged.

“Taion,” she finally broke the silence, her gaze locked onto his, “Do you love me?” His reaction was immediate and pronounced. His eyes widened in surprise, his face flushed, and he took a step back. His response was far from the composed demeanor he usually exhibited when dealing with emotional matters.

“W-why this question?” he stammered, struggling under the weight of her probing gaze. He attempted to regain his composure, nervously adjusting his glasses.

“I’m just trying to understand something,” she responded simply, “Please answer.”

“Understand what?” he asked, his tone guarded.

“There’s no need to be so defensive, darling,” she sighed, striving to keep her voice gentle, “Do you think I can’t handle the answer? I thought you knew me better than that.”

“It’s precisely because I know you that I’m concerned about this sudden question,” he retorted, his voice tense. He looked at her, his expression unreadable, before adding in a more somber tone, “I believe you already know my answer…”

Lexy nodded slowly, as if she had been expecting this. “I want to hear it from you.”

Taion’s face was etched with worry. It was unusual for Lexy to initiate such a conversation, and he couldn’t understand why she was broaching this topic now. Had he done something to trigger this? His mind raced, trying to recall his actions over the past 24 hours, but nothing significant came to mind. The only logical conclusion was that she had experienced some sort of revelation. What had sparked it, he had no idea.

“I don’t understand, Lexy,” he whispered, desperately trying to avoid the impending confrontation, even though he knew it was inevitable.

“Stop playing dumb, Taion,” her tone was sharp, cutting through the tension like a knife, “Answer.” They stood facing each other, the silence between them heavy and almost unbearable. Her green eyes bore into him so intensely that he felt utterly exposed. Seeing no way out, he sighed and finally responded in a sad tone.

“No, I don’t love you.”

For a moment, neither of them spoke. They continued their silent standoff, until Alex slowly nodded again, as if his answer had confirmed her suspicions.

“Just as I thought,” she said simply.

“Then why ask?” he groaned, his hands clenched into fists. For the first time since they met, he was unable to comprehend his wife’s behavior. She had always been so rational, so why was she acting like this now?

His mind was a whirlwind of questions, but one query stood out among the rest: why had they married in the first place? And even before that, why had they become a couple? It was Lexy who had first proposed the idea during his final year at university. She had asked him out, but he had declined. He wasn’t particularly interested in dating her, or anyone else for that matter. He didn’t see the point in wasting their time. Deep down, he was still clinging to the hope, the dream, the longing for a reunion with his friends from Bionis. When she asked for the reason behind his refusal, he had been straightforward with her. But her reaction had taken him by surprise. She had burst into laughter as if he had just told her a hilarious joke. His anger flared at her response, but when she realized he wasn’t joking, she apologized and explained her outburst. Her parents were engineers working on a project to connect the two worlds, and just the previous month, they had experienced yet another failure with the device they were developing. If it hadn’t been for Queen Mia, their division wouldn’t even exist. Rumors were circulating that the Queen herself was beginning to lose hope. With each passing year, as Bionis drifted further away, the challenges to reestablish a connection increased, as did the funds required to continue the research. How long could a ruler justify spending such vast amounts of money on a project that more and more people were viewing as futile? Taion knew Lexy wasn’t lying to him, and this wasn’t some underhanded ploy to get him to date her. He didn’t know how to respond at the time, and in his despair, he had simply returned home.

Several months later, Taion found himself in the company of Mio and Sena and Mio confirmed that the research on the interconnection device was at a standstill. Needless to say, the mood among the trio was somber. Taion felt a wave of despair wash over him, the pain almost unbearable. The desperation in Mio’s eyes and Sena’s tears were a stark reminder of their shared sorrow. That night, he reached out to Lexy, asking if her offer to go out was still on the table. He yearned for a brief respite, a few hours of oblivion, a temporary escape from the relentless pain. It wasn’t too much to ask for, was it?

Those few hours turned into days, the days morphed into months, and the months eventually turned into years. When he agreed to marry Lexy, he harbored a faint hope that his feelings would evolve over time. After all, why wouldn’t they? Lexy was a brilliant woman, just like him - intelligent, beautiful, and they both shared a love for reading. They were often lauded as the perfect couple by those around them. Everyone, except his close friends - Mio, Sena, and his Blades, Nimue and Isurd, who had raised him since childhood after the untimely demise of his parents. They understood his reasons but didn’t agree with his decision. They believed that this was not the right way to confront reality.

“As I mentioned earlier, I was merely seeking confirmation before proceeding,” Alex stated, her gaze unwavering.

“Proceeding? Is this another step in one of your plans?” Taion asked, a hint of confusion in his voice. She nodded, appearing to carefully consider her words. Taion couldn’t help but notice her nervousness, a trait rarely seen in her.

“Yes, you could say it’s the final step in my life plan,” she finally admitted.

“If I remember correctly, you’ve already accomplished all the steps you set out to do,” he responded cautiously. She nodded slowly in agreement.

“Yes, and I owe a lot of that to you,” she said, stopping him before he could respond. “You see, darling, I feel like something is missing in my life.” Taion was about to protest when she raised a hand to stop him. “It’s not your love, Taion.” He was taken aback. What more could she possibly want? A larger house? Another luxury car? No, he was certain it was something deeper.

“If there’s any way I can help…” he began, his voice barely above a whisper, “You know that even if I don’t love you, I care deeply for you and you are important to me.” She nodded, as if this was a given.

“I know. That’s why I might ask for your help one last time.”

Taion was more puzzled than ever. Why had she used the conditional tense?

“Of course,” he responded slowly. He could feel his heart racing and an unusual surge of adrenaline coursing through his body. His instincts were telling him that he was at a crossroads with her. Depending on his response, this chapter of his life could come to an end. She finally broke the tense silence between them.

“I want to have a baby.”

****

At that moment, everything seemed to come to a standstill. Taion felt as though he had been plunged into a world of ice, every movement, every thought frozen in time. He could only gape in surprise, his mind short-circuiting, unable to fully process her request. For a fleeting moment, he thought his heart, which had been pounding wildly, had come to a sudden halt.

“W-what?” was all he managed to stammer out, his mind refusing to accept what she had just said.

Alexandria rolled her eyes in exasperation, massaging her temples as if trying to anticipate his next moves. “A baby, Taion. You know, a tiny human being?” she retorted, her tone laced with irritation. He took a step back.

“I’m well aware of what they are, thank you,” he responded, his voice dripping with sarcasm. “But, Lexy, I don’t understand! I made it clear before we got married: I didn’t want children. That was one of the few conditions for us to proceed. And you agreed, didn’t you?”

“Yes, yes, I did!” she shot back, a hint of anger creeping into her voice. “But I’ve changed my mind.”

“You’ve changed your mind? Lexy, don’t play games with me!” Taion’s voice echoed with surprise. “You’ve never shown any particular interest in children. The maternal instinct doesn’t just develop overnight. So, for Queens’s sake, could you please explain what’s going on this morning?”

For the first time, Alexandria allowed her emotions to surface. A tiny tear welled up in her eye. Could it be? Was the formidable Alexandria on the verge of tears?

“Because I need love, Taion! I need to fill this void that’s been gnawing at me, keeping me awake night after night for years!” she cried out, her voice rising with emotion. “I’m sick and tired of waiting for you to move on from your past! I’ve tried to be patient, I’ve tried to fall in love with you, but your emotional distance has kept me at arm’s length too!”

Taion found himself at a loss for words, a state that was highly unusual for him. He was struggling to process the flood of information, his usually efficient mind failing to provide any assistance. Alexandria seemed to be waiting for a response, but he was unsure if he should even attempt to reply. Her words had hit him like a massive boulder, stirring up a whirlwind of memories from Aionios that left him feeling disoriented. He slid his hand under his glasses, massaging his temples in an attempt to formulate a response that wasn’t just a string of feeble excuses.

“I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have raised my voice,” she sighed, settling down on the bed.

“N-no, there’s no need to apologize,” he stammered, kneeling in front of her. He felt a wave of compassion for her, and for the first time, he realized that he had misjudged both his own feelings and hers. He had genuinely believed that with time, he would gradually detach himself from the ex-kevesi girl, but that hadn’t happened. He had been so blinded by his desire to maintain the façade of his life, primarily because he didn’t want to experience the pain and desperation that Mio was going through. His fear of revisiting that anguish had prevented him from realizing how his actions were also making his wife’s life miserable.

“I should be the one apologizing…” Taion’s voice was choked with emotion, “I failed to understand what you were going through… I’m sorry, Lexy.” His eyes welled up with tears, and Lexy offered him a sad smile, her hand gently ruffling his wavy hair.

“Taion, it’s not your fault. We both tried, but we have to face the reality that we’ve failed,” she said, delicately wiping away the tears that had gathered at the corners of his eyes, trying to offer him some comfort. “I didn’t communicate my feelings well. You know how hard it is for me to understand my own emotions.” Taion nodded, his hands enveloping hers in a comforting grip.

“I’m not blaming you, Lexy. It was me all along. I couldn’t move past it. I’m sorry… again.”

They remained in each other’s arms, offering silent comfort until their tears had dried and Alexandria found her voice again.

“You didn’t answer my question. I need you to do that, Taion.”

Taion rose from his kneeling position and sat next to her on the bed. He was silent for a moment, lost in thought, but deep down, he already knew his answer.

“No, Lexy, I…” he began, only to be interrupted by her.

“There’s no need for apologies. Just tell me why,” she interjected, her tone neither angry nor harsh, but genuinely curious. “I always thought that unlike me, you loved being around children. I must admit, I never really understood your stance back then. Not that it mattered much at the time.”

Taion let out a sigh, leaning his head back. “Yes, I do like them. I…” He paused, debating whether to tell her the truth. She certainly deserved it, but he decided to opt for a half-truth instead. “I don’t think I would make a good father. As you know, I’m an orphan. Even though Isurd and Nimue did an incredible job raising me, they were still Blades awakened by a five-year-old boy who had just become a Blade Eater…”

Alexandria studied her husband’s face. She was certain he wasn’t lying, but she also knew there were other reasons behind his words. She chose not to probe further, seeing no point in doing so. She simply let her head rest on his shoulder, knowing that this might be the last time she would feel his comforting embrace.

***

“Mum, please! You have to be rational!” Mio’s voice was choked with tears, her legs trembling uncontrollably.

“Mio, I am the rational one here,” Nia retorted sharply. “We’ve been funding countless research groups for 32 years, and what do we have achieved? Nothing!” Seeing her daughter in such a state was heart-wrenching, but Nia had come to the painful realization that Mio needed to move on. She had a long life ahead of her, and she couldn’t spend it all consumed by regret and constantly dwelling on what might have been.

“Mio…” Rex attempted to interject, but his daughter cut him off.

“You can’t understand! Neither of you can!” Mio was not one for dramatic outbursts. She had always been a well-behaved, composed daughter, especially compared to her two step-sisters, Glimmer and Cassiopeia. With tears streaming down her face, she fled from her mother’s bedroom and retreated to her own.

The thought of severing that last, fragile connection between her and Noah was unbearable. In that moment, she would have preferred to live her entire life clinging to hope rather than surrendering her dreams. Memories of their time together in Aionios haunted her day and night. The lives they had shared were a jumbled mess in her mind, sometimes making sleep elusive, sometimes a welcome escape. She slammed her bedroom door with such force that it nearly came off its hinges. She threw herself onto her enormous bed, grabbed a pillow, and screamed into it to muffle her cries.

“Mio?” The voice of her father echoed through the door, a note of concern in his tone. “Hey, sweetheart, open up for your ol’ man, will ya?”

“Leave me alone!” was her terse response, her voice still shaky from crying. She could hear her father sigh on the other side of the door, likely scratching his head in confusion.

“Listen, kiddo… I’m not exactly an expert at this, and y’ know that. But please, open the door. I’ve already had to replace Cassiopeia’s and Glimmer’s doors so many times, that the castle repairman is starting to hate me.” He was trying to lighten the mood, a skill he had always excelled at.

“C’ mon, darling. I come bearing a white flag, you see.” Mio let out a sigh and decided to open the door.

“There’s my girl,” he exclaimed, pulling her into a hug as soon as the door swung open.

“Dad… you’re suffocating me,” she managed to laugh slightly, even though her face was still streaked with tears.

“It’s the love that’s suffocating ya, not me!” he declared, hugging her even tighter before finally releasing her. They stayed in each other’s arms for a while, Rex allowing Mio to cry on his shoulder for as long as she needed. Words were not his strong suit, but he knew how much Mio craved physical contact, much like her mother.

Once she had calmed down, they both sat down on her bed.

“I’m sorry, this isn’t how a forty-three-year-old princess should behave,” Mio said slowly, her voice filled with regret.

“Ah, fuck that,” her father laughed, “You never had any desire to be a princess, didntja?” Mio sighed, her father’s words hitting close to home. She nodded slowly in agreement.

“I can’t imagine how mum and aunts manage to do it,” she confessed.

“Heh,” her father grinned, “Neither can I.”

They sat in silence for a while, her father gently stroking her fluffy ears.

“Listen, Mio, I don’t agree with Nia’s decision to stop funding the research group either, okay? But y’ need to understand that it’s not just about money and public perception,” he said, looking straight into her eyes, so reminiscent of her mother’s. “We see you, spending your days waiting for something.” Mio tried to protest, but her father cut her off. “There’s nothing wrong with holding onto hope, kiddo. But you can’t waste your life just sitting in your room and waiting. You graduated, use that degree to find something you’re passionate about. Distract yourself a bit! Travel the world! Alrest is vast, and y’ve only seen a fraction of it! Holding onto hope doesn’t mean ya stop living. I’m sure Noah, your Noah, is doing the same.”

Mio was taken aback by his words. She paused, mulling over his suggestions.

“That’s… actually a good idea, Dad,” she finally conceded, a soft smile playing on her lips. “I’ll give it some thought.”

“That’s my girl!” he exclaimed, pulling her into a tight hug that left her momentarily breathless.

“But I have one condition,” she managed to say.

“Shoot,” he encouraged.

“You need to convince Mum to continue funding the research,” she stated, her tone firm and resolute. Rex released her from his embrace and looked her straight in the eyes.

“Ya have my word,” he promised.

***

Two weeks had passed since Mio’s emotional conversation with her parents, and she felt it was time to share her decision with her closest friends. She initiated a group call with them and waited for them to answer.

“Mimi! Where have you been? We haven’t heard from you in almost a week!” Sena exclaimed, her voice filled with concern.

“We were starting to worry,” Taion added, echoing Sena’s sentiments.

“Sorry, guys. The past few days have been… well, chaotic,” Mio admitted. “Remember how I mentioned last week that I might have some news to share? How about we catch up over drinks tonight, just like we used to do during our university days?”

“My schedule is clear,” Taion confirmed promptly.

“Hold on a sec, Mimi! I need to check with Layla if she can look after the kids,” Sena said, momentarily moving away from the communication device. Mio and Taion could hear her discussing with her wife in the background. After a flurry of conversation, Sena returned to the call. “Yep, she’ll take care of the kids.”

“It’s been a while since I’ve seen Seigiri and Ghondor. Maybe next time you could bring them along,” Mio suggested.

“Absolutely, Mimi! But right now, I’m really looking forward to a good drink with my best friends! So, where are we heading?” Sena asked eagerly.

“Actually, I’ve been wanting to try a new pub in Torigoth. I heard they serve a unique liquor distilled from the nectar of a flower similar to the Sirius Anemone,” Taion suggested.

“Sounds like a plan! Let’s meet at the main square in Torigoth at 8 pm,” Mio confirmed, ending the call on a positive note.

***

“So, what’s the big announcement?” Sena inquired, her voice buzzing with anticipation. Mio couldn’t help but smile at her friend. Despite being forty-two, Sena still possessed the vibrant energy of a teenager. Even the demands of raising two young children hadn’t dampened her spirit.

“I must admit, I’m quite intrigued as well,” Taion chimed in, taking a leisurely sip from his glass.

“Well, there are actually two major pieces of news,” Mio began, “The first one is that my dad has finally persuaded my mum to continue funding the research group.”

“That’s… incredible!” Taion exclaimed. Like everyone else, he had heard the news about the Queen’s decision to discontinue the unit, but he hadn’t heard anything about a reversal of that decision.

“Mum was concerned about public opinion, so the funds can’t come directly from the Royal treasury. But Aunt Pyra is working on a solution to make it happen.”

“Oh Mimi, that’s truly fantastic!” Sena exclaimed, her voice filled with joy, “I still hold out hope that we’ll see Lanz and the others again. I’m sure he would adore the kids.”

“And the second piece of news?” Taion prodded, turning his attention to his friend. Mio sighed and took a generous sip of her cocktail.

“Whoa, take it easy!” Sena chuckled, “I’d rather not have to call your dad again…”

“Again…” Taion chimed in with a grin.

“Shush, it only happened once,” Mio retorted, waving her hand dismissively. Sena held up ten fingers, while Taion added two more to the count. “As I was saying, the second piece of news is… I’m leaving, guys.”

Sena’s beer nearly slipped from her hand, but Taion miraculously caught it before it hit the ground.

“Wh-what?” Sena stammered, “What do you mean, leaving?!”

“I need to step outside my room, Sena,” Mio sighed, her ears drooping slightly, “Both of you have accomplished things in your lives… good things,” she glanced at Sena, “or less good,” she turned her gaze to Taion, who merely groaned in response. “But I haven’t really done anything. I still live with my parents at forty-three, I’ve never worked, never traveled, never done anything for myself. I’ve only fulfilled my royal duties, and that’s all.”

Sena and Taion exchanged glances before turning back to Mio, both of them wearing smiles on their faces.

“Mimi, I think that’s a fantastic idea,” Sena said gently, “If you need a guide when you’re in the Mor Ardain zone, just let me know! I can make a few quick calls to my moms!”

“Sure, I’ll keep that in mind,” Mio responded with a smile.

“I also think it’s a great idea, Mio,” Taion chimed in, “I’ve been considering taking a break myself, now that all the divorce paperwork is finally sorted. Being a military tactician during peaceful times isn’t exactly thrilling.”

“If you’re looking for a break from your monotonous routine, let me know. I have two little whirlwinds at home who would love to spend time with Uncle Taion,” Sena said, grinning at him.

Mio observed Taion with a mix of curiosity and surprise. Was Mr. Workaholic actually considering taking a vacation? Both Mio and Sena knew that Taion was so dedicated to his job that he used it as a distraction, a way to avoid thinking about her. Alexandria herself had to practically drag him to take a few days off from time to time. So, Mio was taken aback by his admission. She studied him more closely. He looked extremely tired, his characteristic dark circles under his eyes were even more pronounced than usual, his hair was messier, and his usually immaculate shave was slightly off. This was unlike him, always so meticulous about his appearance. Was this because of the divorce? She didn’t think so, he seemed so relieved when he shared the news with her and Sena. Before she could overthink it, she decided to speak up.

“Why don’t you come with me then?” Mio proposed, her words catching both Taion and Sena off guard.

“Excuse me?” Taion responded, his expression a mix of surprise and confusion. Mio simply nodded in affirmation.

“Why so surprised?” she asked with a smile, “You’ve traveled more extensively than I have, so you definitely have more experience in this regard! You could suggest some worthwhile places to visit, and I also think that traveling together might be more enjoyable than going alone. Think about it as a mission of exploration as we used to do it back in Aionios!”

Taion blinked several times, as if trying to process each word, his face an unreadable mask.

“Of course, Sena, the invitation extends to you as well,” Mio added, turning to her friend with a smile. Sena seemed lost in thought, only snapping back to reality when Mio addressed her.

“Huh? Oh, that would be absolutely wonderful! But it might be difficult with the kids. Maybe if you pass through Mor Ardain, I could join you for a few days and leave the kids with their grandmothers. Besides, I can’t leave the cadets alone. The special forces won’t train themselves.”

“Understood,” Mio agreed, then turned her attention back to Taion, “Take your time to think about it, you don’t need to give me an answer today. I won’t be leaving until next week. Now, if you’ll excuse me for a moment, I need to find a restroom.” With a final smile, she excused herself from their company.

Taion removed his glasses, studying the amber liquid in his glass before taking a generous sip. The liquor burned his throat and stomach, but he hoped the alcohol would help soothe his nerves. Why was he feeling so anxious in the first place?

“Taion,” Sena’s voice broke through his thoughts. He glanced at her, noticing the serious, worried expression on her face. “Don’t go down that bunnit hole.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” he responded, feigning ignorance as he ran a hand through his hair.

“I’ve been down that path, in Aionios and even here in Alrest. Trust me, if I hadn’t met Layla, I’d probably still be stuck there. Haven’t you punished yourself enough with Lexy?”

“Should I turn down her invitation then?” he asked, sighing as he took another sip of his drink.

“I can’t say for sure,” she shrugged, “I’m just saying, don’t get lost in that bunnit hole. If you just need a few days off…” Her voice trailed off.

Taion sighed, contemplating whether to order another shot of liquor. His mind felt heavy, chaotic, and confused, and he yearned for a moment of respite. Mio had been one of his closest friends for as long as he could remember, so rationally speaking, there was nothing wrong with her proposal. Yet, a part of him also wondered if it was the right decision, especially after hearing Sena’s words. He knew deep down, and Sena knew too, that accepting the invitation came with risks. Risks that might not be worth taking. He bit his lip nervously: what should he do?

When Mio returned, Taion turned to face her and for a moment he was really going to decline her invitation. But then… seeing her, so enthusiastic for a long time about that proposal he felt his stomach twitching. He was quite sure he hadn’t seen her like that for a long time, when the hope for reconnection was still high enough to keep their mood so light.

“You know what? Maybe I can join you for a few days. A little break won’t hurt,” he said, managing a small smile, “I still have a ton of unused vacation days from these years. I could probably even take an entire year off, but I have plants at home that need my care.”

“That’s wonderful!” Mio exclaimed enthusiastically, “I’ll call you tomorrow so we can work out the details!”

Taion nodded slowly, still unsure if he had made the right decision, while Sena took a long sip of her beer.

***

Isurd, with a thoughtful expression, slowly articulated his words, “Hmm, a brief break wouldn’t be negative.” He rested his hand under his chin, deep in contemplation. “You seem utterly drained, Taion.” Taion had returned to his childhood home, where his adoptive parents as well his Blades, Isurd and Nimue, resided. He had just informed them of his decision to take a holiday.

Nimue, standing beside her husband, gently placed her icy hand on Taion’s cheek. Despite its frosty appearance, her touch was surprisingly warm, a sensation that Taion always found comforting yet unexpected.

“I can’t remember the last time I saw you in such a state, dear,” she sighed, her gaze falling on the large, dark circles under his eyes.

“I’ve been having difficulty sleeping,” he confessed in a murmur, “More than usual, that is. It’s been worst since Lexy left.”

Isurd, with a reassuring smile, offered, “I know it might sound a bit silly, but if you’d like, your old room is still available here. We’ve kept everything intact. It’s exactly as you left it, at your disposal whenever you need it.”

A soft chuckle escaped Taion’s lips. “Sir, please! I’m not a child anymore!” Despite the passing years and the fact that Isurd and Nimue saw him more as a son than a driver, the memories of Aionios were so vivid in his mind that he often found himself addressing Isurd as “Sir” or even “Commander”, and Nimue as “Ma’am”.

“Well, I didn’t exactly suggest that you sleep in our bed, did I?” Isurd teased, a playful glint in his eyes.

“I wouldn’t object to it,” Nimue chimed in, “If it would help him get a good night’s sleep, even if just for one night.”

Taion’s cheeks flushed a deep shade of red. “Ma’am, that’s highly inappropriate!” he exclaimed, clearly embarrassed. “I appreciate your intentions, but…”

Isurd chuckled, “Oh, come on, Nimue! He’s not a little boy anymore, scared of thunderstorms and seeking refuge in our bed.”

“Sir!!!” Taion protested, his embarrassment growing.

Nimue’s voice softened as she recalled, “He was so adorable! Remember the first time there was a thunderstorm after he unlocked us? He hid in the wardrobe until we found him the next day.”

Taion could feel his face burning with embarrassment at the memory. “Could you please stop???” he pleaded, covering his blushing face with his hands.

Isurd couldn’t resist another tease, “Well, what kind of parents would we be if we didn’t embarrass you from time to time? Anyway, we can look after your plants while you’re away. You don’t need to worry about them.”

Nimue then asked, “You mentioned you’re leaving with Mio, right?” Taion slowly nodded, then turned his gaze to Isurd, anticipating his response. Isurd met his gaze squarely.

“If you ever need help or… advice, you can always reach out to us,” Isurd finally said, “Even if it’s in the middle of the night. We are your Blades, after all. It’s our duty to guide you, always.”

“I know you don’t like to think of us as Blades,” Taion murmured.

“We understand, sweetheart,” Nimue replied, her smile warm as she caressed his cheek. “We’re perfectly content if you want to think of us as your parents. We couldn’t be happier about that.”

Taion nodded, allowing Nimue to envelop him in a tight hug that nearly took his breath away.

***

Taion and Mio had embarked on their journey with little knowledge of the breathtaking beauty that awaited them in the world of Alrest, particularly in the Uraya region. They were currently exploring the capital city, Fonsa Myma, and were en route to the historic Olethro Ruins. The stunning landscapes and rich history of these places continually left them in awe.

When Taion initially set off on this journey, he had anticipated being away for a few days, perhaps a week at most. He had accordingly informed his superior of his plans. However, what was initially planned as a week-long trip soon extended into a month, and before they knew it, three months had passed. Taion and Mio were still traveling together, discovering new places that were so numerous and diverse that it made their heads spin.

Their shared experiences brought back memories of their time in Aionios when Taion had requested a transfer from Colony Lambda to Colony Gamma. They had immediately hit it off due to their mutual respect for each other’s boundaries and their deep understanding of one another. Their conversations were always pleasant and enjoyable, further strengthening their bond.

Mio was well aware that Taion was not Noah. However, his constant presence in her life, just like in Aionios, provided her with a sense of stability and comfort. She fondly recalled the countless times he had been there for her, offering help and protection. Both he and Sena had shown her unwavering devotion, a fact that she never fully comprehended. She often wondered if she would have done the same had their roles been reversed. She was confident that she would have mirrored their actions.

As the day began to wane, Taion suggested, “It’s getting late. Should we make our way to the dorm? I’d like to go to bed early. I’ve planned a challenging hike around the area for tomorrow.”

Mio couldn’t help but tease him, “It still surprises me how athletic you’ve become.” Her comment brought a blush to his cheeks.

Stammering slightly, he responded, “W-well… Lexy did have a positive impact on me, after all.” He adjusted his glasses nervously. Mio’s soft laughter filled the air as she agreed to his proposal.

“Yes, let’s head back. I’m starting to feel hungry.”

Upon their arrival at the dorm, Mio suggested that they inquire about a good place to eat while Taion handled the check-in process.

“Room 28, sir. I hope you both enjoy your stay!” The receptionist’s smile was warm as she handed the room key to Taion.

“Thank you,” Taion responded, accepting the key before setting off to find Mio. He discovered her engaged in a lively conversation with some locals about potential dinner spots.

“Taion!” Mio’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “This kind lady was just telling me about a charming canteen a few streets away. They serve traditional Urayan cuisine! Shall we give it a try?” Taion suspected that Mio’s enthusiasm was largely due to the seafood-centric menu. He returned her smile and nodded in agreement as the woman finished giving them directions to the canteen.

The canteen turned out to be a cozy, welcoming place, filled with locals rather than tourists. This was a promising sign, indicating that it was a genuine local spot. After settling down and placing their orders, Taion picked up a newspaper that was available for patrons. Despite being on vacation, he liked to stay informed about the happenings in Alrest.

“Find anything of interest?” Mio asked, nibbling on some bread to stave off her hunger. Taion shook his head slowly in response. The news was rather mundane these days - local parades, commemorations of historical events, the discovery of a new ether mine near Mor Ardain, and so forth. He was about to fold the newspaper and put it aside when a small headline on the last page caught his eye. As he quickly scanned the article, his heart began to race. His palms grew sweaty as he gripped the paper, and he felt a knot forming in his stomach. He realized too late that his facial expression had likely given away his distress. His old fears resurfaced, causing his hands to tremble and his skin to pale.

Mio, noticing his change in demeanor, asked with concern, “What’s wrong?” Taion quickly closed the newspaper and adjusted his glasses, making a concerted effort to regain his composure and suppress the wave of irrational thoughts that had flooded his mind.

“Absolutely nothing!” Taion blurted out, attempting to feign amusement. “Just some silly Gogols making off with a net full of freshly caught fish!” He couldn’t help but question his own intelligence at times… he was such a terrible liar. He couldn’t meet her gaze, and his words tumbled out too quickly and nervously.

Mio raised an eyebrow in skepticism. “Really?” she asked, seemingly amused by his unusual behavior.

“Um… y-yes?” He tried to meet her gaze but only succeeded in blushing even more.

“You do realize that I can easily grab that newspaper and read it myself, right?” she sighed. The amusement in her voice had vanished, replaced by a hint of worry. “What did you read, Taion?”

Taion looked at her. He hated lying, especially to her, but he also didn’t want her to know… Mio seemed genuinely happy during this vacation. Sure, she spent hours every night gazing at the sky, whether clear or cloudy, but at least she didn’t seem burdened by her emotions anymore. Seeing her like this brought him a sense of joy and tranquility. It also helped distract him from his own thoughts.

“Taion…” she called his name again. Taion sighed and met her gaze once more. He wanted to protect her, to preserve her mood. He even considered lying again, but his rational side was screaming that it was only a matter of time before she found out the truth.

“The most promising lab working on the connection device… it’s been shut down due to lack of results,” he finally confessed.

The bustling noise around them seemed to fade away, replaced by a stifling silence. Mio instinctively covered her mouth with her hands, as if trying to suppress any sound that might escape.

“I’m sorry, Mio…” he whispered, looking away from her. He couldn’t bear to meet her gaze. He felt like such a coward…

Mio’s mind was a whirlwind of thoughts, each one crashing over her like a relentless wave. For a moment, she found herself unable to utter a single word. The familiar ache in her chest returned, accompanied by the suffocating sensation of drowning. She made a concerted effort to regain her composure, not wanting to upset Taion or disrupt the pleasant atmosphere. He had been doing his utmost to lift her spirits throughout their journey, filling their days with various activities and explorations. She had been feeling better than she had in a long time. It would be ungrateful of her to let this news cast a shadow over their shared happiness.

“It’s ‘kay, Taion,” Mio finally managed to say, forcing a smile despite the sadness welling up inside her. “I’m confident that someone, someday, will succeed in creating it.” Taion didn’t respond verbally, but simply nodded slowly in acknowledgment. A heavy silence fell over them for the remainder of their dinner, each lost in their own thoughts.

***

The accommodation they had chosen was thoughtfully designed with two separate areas, providing them with the privacy they both desired. As per their usual arrangement, Taion had willingly offered Mio the section that included a balcony, knowing how much she valued her nightly ritual.

Following their quiet dinner, they had retired to their respective beds without much conversation. However, sleep proved elusive for both of them that night. Mio found herself seated by the window, her gaze lost in the world outside, her head resting on her folded arms.

Taion, on the other hand, was wrestling with his insomnia. Despite his best efforts, he found himself tossing and turning amidst the bed sheets. Eventually, he sighed and decided to venture into Mio’s area where a kettle was available. He was well aware that she was still awake. Perhaps he could offer her some tea? The thought made him bite his lip in hesitation. Something about it felt inherently wrong. A part of him was screaming that he shouldn’t intrude on her ritual. He had felt obligated to share it with Lexy and had been relieved when she didn’t particularly enjoy it. It felt as though things were meant to be that way. However, he didn’t want to come across as impolite.

Taion let out a frustrated groan, berating himself for overthinking the situation. It was just a simple cup of tea, so why was he feeling so anxious?

Upon opening the door, he found Mio exactly where he had expected her to be. She glanced at him and offered a soft smile, her eyes tinged red and her cheeks flushed.

“Sorry, did I wake you?” she asked, concern evident in her voice. Taion shook his head in response.

“No, it’s just my insomnia acting up,” he explained. “I was thinking of making some tea…” He hesitated before adding, “Would you like a cup?”

Mio studied him intently before responding, “Are you sure?”

Her question caught Taion off guard. He sometimes forgot how perceptive she was, how well she knew him. Memories of him and Eunie flooded his mind, and he nodded, quickly turning his back to hide the tear that had welled up in the corner of his eye.

“Do you have any preferences?” he asked, opening his cherished wooden tea box.

“I trust you,” she replied.

They both understood that her trust extended beyond just the choice of tea. Taion chose not to comment on this and proceeded with his meticulous tea preparation.

Once he had finished preparing the tea, Taion approached Mio near the window. He handed her the steaming cup, which she accepted with a smile. Before taking a sip, she looked at him and posed a question, “Are we pathetic, aren’t we?”

Taion returned her gaze, taking a moment to cool his own beverage with a gentle blow. “Yes, we are. I probably am more pathetic than you,” he admitted.

“Why would you say that?” she asked, taking her first sip of the tea. “Wow, this one’s really good!”

A weak smile crossed Taion’s face; it was Eunie’s favorite blend.

“Well… I’m struggling so much to move on, and I don’t understand why. I mean, I can understand your struggle, but not mine,” he sighed. Mio could see a change in his eyes. For the first time, she could see the depth of his pain, his grief mirroring her own.

“Well, we were both Ouroboros. I don’t see why you should consider yourself more pathetic. It’s not a competition,” she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.

“What I’m trying to say is that you and Noah were destined to be together. Through all your lives in Aionios, you two were inseparable. I can’t even begin to comprehend the depth of your suffering… But me? I was just an ordinary guy, always killed before the homecoming, only to be thrust back into the cycle. My existence was defined by fighting and dying. I never dreamed of anything beyond fulfilling my duty as a soldier, serving a queen who wasn’t even real,” Taion explained. Mio started to interject, but Taion silenced her with a shake of his head.

"These are the facts, Mio. We could debate this all night, but even when I recall fragments of my past lives, I never experienced the city or understood what it meant to feel romantic love. My life was confined to the battlefield or a colony. Nothing more, nothing less.

And that’s where my struggle lies: why am I like this now? Every time I close my eyes, my mind is drawn back to my last life in Aionios. The life I shared with you, with her, with the others. Despite some painful memories, our journey is etched vividly in my mind. I remember how light-hearted I felt with all of you, how genuinely happy I was, I dare say.” As he spoke, Taion placed a hand on his chest, clutching his white t-shirt, which he wore as pijamas, as if trying to hold onto something tangible. His emotions, which he had been trying so hard to suppress, surged forth from the recesses of his mind, hitting him like a tidal wave. His heart pounded in his chest, his breaths became labored, and his vision blurred.

“Why am I feeling this way? Why is there this hollow sensation in my chest? Is it nostalgia? But nostalgia for what? The battles? The Moebius? No, I don’t think so… Even though I try my hardest to suppress it, there’s always one person who lingers in my mind. But she was nothing to me, right? Just a thorn in my side!” He hissed, feeling the sting of tears forming at the corners of his eyes. "I never realized how… how much I depended on her, how significant she was to me. When we learned about love in the city, not once did I associate it with her. Why would I? She was so difficult to deal with, always seeming to take pleasure in teasing me! Besides, we had more pressing matters to attend to, like your homecoming. The girl who led us, our guiding light, was on the brink of death, and there was nothing anyone could do about it! I felt so helpless, so desperate, and I didn’t know how to provide emotional support.

But then… then something began to shift. After the incident at Agnus Castle, she approached me and mentioned that she had found a reliable guy to stand by her side. At first, I never imagined she was referring to me. But unexpectedly, I found myself dwelling on it more and more. Who was this person? Who was fortunate enough to be described by her in such a way? Why couldn’t she have chosen me instead of someone else? I realized that I was envious of a phantom… a mere shadow. And yet, due to my own insecurities, my own fears, I did nothing. I simply tried to be there for her, to be that guy!" A tear slid down his cheek, tracing a path of sorrow. “Now all I have is a life filled with regrets and nothing more… I can’t even say her name… it’s just too painful. Isn’t it strange? She was nothing more than a friend to me. And yet, why does it hurt so much?”

Mio found herself resonating with Taion’s words, feeling his pain as if it were her own. She was at a loss for how to comfort him, primarily because she didn’t know how to alleviate her own suffering. Her face was streaked with tears as she reached out to him, eventually pulling him into a comforting embrace. She could feel him tense up, unaccustomed to her touch and taken aback by her actions. However, he didn’t resist, and she began to gently stroke his soft, wavy hair. His hair was so different from Noah’s - thicker, wavier, and yet uniquely his own. Despite the passage of time, all the sensations were etched deeply in her memory.

“Love can be a terrible thing sometimes,” she whispered, her voice laced with a hint of bitter humor. “I often wish that I could just wake up one day and… not love him anymore. It’s a foolish, childish thought, and it’s so unfair to him. But I’m just so damn tired, Taion.” Her tears fell onto his shoulder, slightly dampening his t-shirt. Taion didn’t seem to mind, and after a moment of hesitation, he shyly returned her hug. Mio tightened her hold on him, grateful for his constant presence. She couldn’t have asked for better friends than Sena and him.

“Thank you, Taion,” she sobbed, tilting her head back to meet his gaze.

“I’m just sorry I can’t do more to help,” Taion murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. Mio responded by shaking her head emphatically and placing a hand on his cheek. His skin was warm, slightly damp, and so different from hers, from Noah’s. Her pale hand stood out against his darker complexion. She realized for the first time that his face was sprinkled with freckles around his nose and how deep his hazel eyes were. Looking into them, she felt a sense of relief. Being with him seemed to alleviate some of the pain and sadness she was experiencing. Her mind felt dizzy for a moment, and her heart skipped a beat.

“Mio?” Taion called out to her, unable to decipher her expression. Her ears twitched, indicating that she had heard him, but she didn’t respond. Just as he was about to call her name again, her thumb began to trace gentle circles on his skin. He froze. Was she… trying to comfort him? Why did she have that look on her face? Before he could voice his thoughts, she moved her hand along the contour of his face, as if examining something. His heart began to race, and Sena’s words echoed in his mind.

Don’t go inside that Bunnit’ hole.

Taion was on the verge of weakly protesting and pulling away when he felt Mio’s thumb gently trace his full lips. His rational mind was screaming at him to leave, warning him that any decision made from this point forward would be a disastrous mistake. He looked at Mio, her face streaked with tears and found himself unable to do it.

“Mio… please don’t…” he pleaded, his body trembling slightly. He was hoping with all his being that she would stop. “You know… you know I can’t…”

“I know…” she whispered in response.

He didn’t protest when he felt the soft press of her lips against his. He simply closed his eyes and reciprocated her kiss, which was tinged with sadness and anger, with equal intensity.

Fuck it.

Chapter Text

Mio's breath quickened as Taion's lips met hers, a sensation she had never experienced with anyone other than Noah. She was taken aback by the intensity of the moment, unsure of how Taion would react to her kiss. His lips were fuller and softer compared to Noah’s. As their tongues intertwined, she could taste the lingering flavor of the tea they had just shared, adding an intoxicating element to their connection. His trembling hands on her cheeks reassured her, providing a comforting touch that sent shivers down her spine.

What was she doing? She had no clue, she just wanted to feel his breath on her skin, to be pulled against his body and consumed by the intensity of their desires. Without a word, she found herself instinctively moving onto his lap, their bodies fitting perfectly together. As they locked eyes, time seemed to stand still, their hearts beating in sync.

He paused, his cheeks turning red as he gazed at her intently.

"It's a terrible decision, Mio," he whispered solemnly. "Trust me... I've already been through it with Lexy."

"I'm not Lexy," she murmured, adjusting her position to find comfort. Taion groaned in response but didn't deter her as she settled herself onto his lap, her legs pressing against him. She was surprisingly light. He hadn't expected that, considering his previous experiences with his ex-wife, who was undeniably more muscular and heavier than Mio. Mio seemed almost ethereal, with her pale complexion, silver hair, and yellowish cat-like eyes. She hadn't changed at all since Aionios. Even though she was approaching forty-four, she still looked like a teenager. He wasn't surprised though, as she had inherited the Flesh Eater nature from her mother. And he thought she was beautiful, as always.

"That's not the point," he murmured, trying not to focus too much on the fact that she was sitting dangerously close to his manhood. Her arms were wrapped around his neck, and her lips were tantalizingly close to his.

In the quiet room, they found themselves locked in a silent gaze. The silence was eventually shattered by Mio, her voice barely above a whisper, “I understand, Taion… but could we… just for tonight?” As she spoke, fresh tears began to well up in the corners of her eyes, causing her body to tremble slightly.

Taion, his lips pressed together in a nervous bite, found it unbearable to see her in such a state. He instinctively reached out, pulling her into a comforting embrace. His head found a resting place atop hers, an attempt to divert her from her current intentions. He was convinced that this was merely a fleeting moment of vulnerability, that she didn’t truly desire him. He felt compelled to protect her from making irreversible mistakes.

“Wouldn’t it be nice to just let go of our thoughts, for once?” she murmured into his chest, her words muffled by his shirt. “Just you and me, two friends who just want to fuck. No overthinking, no feelings, just… us.”

Her words caused a deep blush to spread across Taion’s face. When had she started using such provocative language?

“Yes, that does sound nice,” he admitted, tightening his hold on her slightly. “But I’m afraid you’ve chosen the wrong person to not overthink.”

A soft chuckle escaped her lips as she reached up to playfully ruffle his hair. Her smile was gentle, almost tender, as she leaned in to plant a gentle kiss on his lips once more.

After a moment of silence, Taion finally broke the quiet, his voice barely audible, “I think it would be best if I left tomorrow.” Mio’s ears twitched at his words, and she immediately met his gaze, her eyes searching his for answers.

“I won’t stop you,” she replied, her voice heavy with resignation. She paused, her hand finding its way to his chest, her eyes never leaving his. “But… could you… stay with me tonight?”

Taion found himself unable to meet her gaze any longer and looked away. His rational mind was screaming at him to leave now before the inevitable happened. If she still harbored hopes for a reunion, unlike him, what would Noah say if he discovered them together? He decided that this was the way to make her reflect on her actions. He was certain that he could convince her to stop. He sighed, trying to gather his thoughts to avoid causing her any further pain, to avoid deepening the wound that was already there.

He finally dared to look back at her, her face so close to his. But as soon as he met those magnificent eyes again, a realization struck him like a bolt of lightning.

She had lost all her hopes.

She had become just like him.

***

Mio was aware of how wrong was all that. Yet, she found herself unable to resist the pull of her decision. She was lost in thought, pondering over the countless years that had passed. Her gaze fell on him, now bare-chested, cradling her in his lap, doing his utmost to provide her with the support she needed. Even if it meant making ill-advised decisions together.

Her eyes were drawn to the gleaming crystal embedded in his chest. Surrounding it were faded scars, a grim reminder of a time long past when Indoline fanatics were still rampant, abducting innocent people, particularly children, to carry out their heinous experiments. The scars were due to the implantation procedure he had undergone many years ago. Even in the present day, sporadic terrorist cells continue to pose a threat throughout Alrest.

“You look just like you did in Aionios.” Mio noticed with a sense of melancholy.

“And so do you,” he replied, gently lifting her dark blue shirt over her head and admiring her physique. They remained by the window, bathed in the moonlight that filled the room. Taion couldn't tear his eyes away from her partially exposed body, her crystal shimmering in the darkness as the two colors danced together.

Mio showed interest in his crystal, and he allowed her to trace her warm hand along its surface. He didn't quite understand why, considering she had a similar one of her own, but he didn't stop her.

“That’s…” Mio’s voice trailed off, her words barely a whisper, her voice cracking under the weight of her emotions. “It’s one of the sources of my pain…”

At first, Taion was at a loss. He thought she was referring to his crystal, and his mind was too clouded to think clearly. But then, understanding dawned on him. He had already experienced this with Lexy.

“Noah is… a Human,” he stated matter-of-factly, recalling their time in Aionios. When they were swimming in the Erythia Sea, he noticed that Noah didn’t have any crystals or other peculiarities on his body. Mio nodded slowly, a melancholic smile gracing her face.

“Our lives are so long that when I first woke up in our world, I thought it was a beautiful blessing,” she explained, her gaze meeting his. "Even when the first projects started failing, I remained hopeful because I believed I had all the time in the world to wait for him.

But then, as the years passed, I came to a painful realization. I had all the time in the world, but he didn’t…” Her body trembled, and all Taion could do was hold her close, his hand gently stroking her hair in an attempt to comfort her.

“I truly, truly believe that we are going to reconnect one day” she sobbed tightening again her grip on him “But it will be too late, for him, for us…”.

Taion didn’t know how to reply. He lost hope to even reconnect it, he didn’t remember how many years ago, so he didn’t really know how to comfort her. He could just kiss her gently on the cheek.

“We don’t know if the life expectancy of Human there is as our Human here” he tried to comfort her like that. Mio shook her head and tried to smile. She also thought that in the beginning, so she asked her mother and her father if they had any information. Nia didn’t really know a lot since she only had contact with Melia but Rex worked with Shulk and he knew something more about Bionis. Taion was about to add something but Mio cut him off with a kiss.

She didn’t want to listen. She didn’t want to think. She didn’t want to feel the pain anymore.

Taion understood her hint and cleared his mind completely. He took hold of her legs and guided them to the back, indicating that she should keep them there. She complied, and he effortlessly lifted her, carrying her to the bed while tightly embracing her.

He carefully laid her down on the bed, positioning himself above her, and sought her final approval through his gaze.

"I want it, Taion," she whispered, reaching out her arms to him and pulling him close by wrapping them around his neck.

At that moment, Taion realized that he desired it just as much as she did, if not more. He could feel his own excitement building as he pressed against her, their half-naked bodies brushing against each other once again.

The experience he had with Lexy was completely different. He had an affection for his ex-wife, and their connection was strong both in and out of the bedroom. However, when it came to a deeper emotional level, he found himself unable to connect with her. This lack of understanding made him question if he had some kind of emotional deficiency. She never made an effort to comprehend his feelings. Their relationship was purely based on convenience, and they were well aware of that fact.

But with Mio, everything was different. She understood his pain and truly knew him. He desired her not because of any advantages she offered like with Lexy, but because she needed him, right at that moment. The last remaining barriers he had just disappeared when he felt her legs intertwined with his back, pulling him closer to her.

He planted a kiss on her lips, playfully teasing them with his tongue, all the while holding her hand tightly. She welcomed his exploration of her mouth with her own tongue, reciprocating the passion. However, at that moment, he realized something: she wasn't Lexy. The techniques and moves he had learned over the years might not apply or be enjoyable for her.

"I... um... I don't really have much experience, except with Lexy," he stumbled, breaking the kiss and blushing profusely. "If I do something wrong..."

Mio chuckled softly and gently pressed her forehead against his, removing his glasses and placing them on the nightstand. "Well, you definitely have more experience than me. At least in this lifetime," she replied, trying to smile nervously. Then, he kissed her again, this time with more caution. Slowly, he slid his other hand, which had been intertwined with hers, from her shoulder and collarbone until he gently squeezed her breast.

Mio made a conscious effort to suppress her memories. Every touch from him seemed to awaken those exact same memories within her. She had to blink repeatedly because, even though it was Taion’s hand on her chest, then on her side, and finally between her legs, her mind was playing tricks on her, making her believe it was Noah. In their intimate moments, Noah had always been more daring and slightly rough, which she both adored and found exciting. On the other hand, Taion was gentle, cautious, and sweet, and his hands were noticeably larger than his Kevesi lover. However, at that moment, it was Noah lying on top of her, kissing her, touching her, and breathing on her neck. The confusion caused her to become distracted and tense up.

"It happens to me too. Not with my memories but with my... fantasies," Taion whispered as he looked at her. Mio's ears twitched in surprise upon hearing those words. He had noticed! "Close your eyes," he gently suggested while continuing to caress her legs.

She followed his lead, placing her trust in him as he pressed a soft kiss to her forehead once more. His lips continued their descent, trailing along the curve of her neck before lingering on her chest. With each tender kiss, he moved lower until he found himself between her thighs.

Mio found herself in a strange state of ecstasy. On one hand, her body had been longing for this kind of connection for what felt like an eternity, causing an ache that had become almost unbearable. She yearned for the touch of another person so intensely that she failed to notice the dampness that had already settled between her legs. On the other hand, with her eyes closed, her memories came alive and started mixing with reality: it was not Taion who was touching her but Noah.

He seemed to sense the inner turmoil raging within Mio's mind. He understood the storm of emotions she was experiencing and took his time, focusing on kissing and caressing her, gently coaxing her towards her primal instincts rather than allowing her thoughts to weigh her down. Gradually, he noticed her muscles relaxing under his touch, her breathing becoming more labored, and her legs beginning to tremble ever so slightly. Taking this as a sign to proceed, he made the decision to venture even further.

She couldn't help but release an uncontrollable moan of delight the moment her pants were removed. The sensation of his tongue and fingers teasing her sent waves of pleasure coursing through her body.

Oh, how she missed these sensations.

In the midst of her pleasure, she could hear Taion breathe a sigh of relief. He ceased his teasing and began to give her exactly what she craved, carefully exploring her sensitive spots and adjusting his pace to her liking. Trembling with raw instinct, she instinctively tightened her legs around his head, feeling the peak of pleasure rapidly approaching. Taion followed her lead, allowing her to take charge, surprised by how different she was from Alex. Mio was undeniably more subdued, but the way she squeezed his hand and covered her mouth with the other hand out of embarrassment, not wanting to make any involuntary sounds, excited him more than he cared to admit.

When she finished trembling, and the last waves of pleasure left her she realized that she was basically crushing her fiend’s head with her legs.

“Ah, sorry, Taion!” Mio exclaimed, her grip on him loosening. “I got… a little bit carried away.”

Taion responded with a warm smile, positioning himself on his knees between her legs. “I’m glad I could help,” he replied softly, his heart feeling lighter at the sight of her smile. He knew this moment of peace wouldn’t last long, but he believed that even a brief respite wouldn’t harm her. He then shifted to lie on his side next to her, and she followed suit, rolling over to face him.

“Thank you,” she murmured, her hand gently caressing his cheek. He shook his head, dismissing her gratitude.

“I’d be lying if I said I didn’t enjoy it as well,” he confessed, a blush creeping onto his face as Mio looked at him in surprise. She was pleased, of course, but now that she had a moment to reflect, she was taken aback by the intensity of their interaction and how engaged he seemed.

“Really?” she asked, her eyes wide with surprise. He nodded slowly in response.

“It shouldn’t really surprise me. Back in Aionios, I had certain feelings for you,” he explained. “Even after what we discovered in the City, I couldn’t quite identify what those feelings were. Were they romantic? Or was it a deep friendship? I didn’t have an answer then, and I still don’t. But one thing was clear - I cared about you, deeply. As Sena.” He bit his lip nervously and averted his gaze. “I didn’t dwell on it much because… well, things changed.”

Mio understood that he was referring to the events at Agnus Castle, when she inherited M’s memories, and when he began to realize that Eunie was more than just an annoying Tirkin. She moved closer to him, her body pressed against his until her head found a resting place under his chin. She was unsure of how to respond. She didn’t want to lie to him: both he and Sena were important to her, but the bond she shared with Noah was on a whole different level. Taion pulled her into his embrace, his hand gently stroking her back.

Mio realized that he was trying his best to maintain his usual strategist demeanor, controlling his breathing and avoiding any physical contact between their pelvis. A soft chuckle escaped from Mio's lips, amused by Taion's predictable tendency to feel embarrassed about anything relating to their physical selves. Mio gently slid a hand onto Taion's shoulder, gradually moving it downward until reaching the waistband of his shorts. As Mio's touch grazed his skin, Taion couldn't help but tense up, causing goosebumps to appear all over his body.

"Mio..." Taion groaned "Maybe it's better if... ah! Fuck!"

A sharp intake of breath followed as Mio's hand reached a sensitive spot, causing Taion to wince. Mio's movements were uncertain, relying solely on memories of what Noah enjoyed. However, Taion wasn't Noah, leaving Mio unsure about how to reciprocate. Nevertheless, judging by Taion's reactions and the way he squeezed Mio's flesh in response, she felt reassured that she was doing everything right. With a smile, she encouraged Taion to remove his last remaining piece of clothing.

"Mio... are you sure about this?" Taion asked, catching his breath. Mio nodded, and after some hesitation, Taion allowed her to undress him completely. As they stood there, completely exposed, both of them blushed with embarrassment.

Mio attempted to calm down her rapidly beating heart by taking deep breaths. She had always felt somewhat timid during intimate encounters, even after engaging in them numerous times with Noah. However, the way he was making her feel tonight was enough to push her past her shyness. With effort, she swallowed hard and approached him, beginning to stroke him slowly. This caused him to gasp and let out a quiet hiss under her touch.

In that moment, she couldn't help but find it amusing how different he was from Noah. Yet, she also realized how much she desired it. She wanted him inside her. Slowly, she climbed onto his lap once more and positioned herself on top, grinding against him. Taion's hands slid over her sides, gently caressing and guiding her movements.

After exchanging a final glance, she began to descend slowly, experiencing the sensation that she had longed for. She gritted her teeth, feeling the stretch inside her that briefly made her fear tearing apart. Clearly, she wasn't accustomed to his size...

"I'm here. We can stop if you w..." he attempted to say, but her tone cut him off.

"I don't want to stop!" Her determination in her tone reminded him of when they met the consuls P and O. He sighed and reached out to hold her hand, offering his support. After she finished her descent, she took a moment to adjust to it before slowly starting to move again, with him following behind.

As always.

Both of them closed their eyes as memories came rushing back, blurring the line between reality and fantasy.

Their movements grew more confident, matching the increasing rhythm of their breaths. They no longer needed words; their connection was beyond that.

Mio was making love with Noah.

Taion was making love with Eunie.

When they both reached their pinnacle of pleasure, they simply held each other close, foreheads pressed together as their tears mixed together.

***

BIONIS.

“You’ve heard me, Crys,” Noah reiterated, his voice firm and laced with a touch of irritation. He carefully set his cherished flute down on the desk in the backstage room, the instrument seeming almost out of place amidst the chaos.

“I hear you, Noah, but I’m having difficulty comprehending your decision,” Crys responded, a sigh escaping his lips as he crossed his arms over his chest.

“There’s nothing to understand,” Noah retorted, his voice gruff with frustration. “I’m done with music. I’ve told you repeatedly over the past few months that this was going to be my final performance.” He didn’t want to come across as rude to his mentor, but they had had this conversation multiple times already. He had hoped that over time, Crys would come to accept his decision to retire.

“Yes, I’m aware, but…” Crys attempted to reason with him once more, only to be cut off by Noah.

“Weren’t you the one who taught me that a good musician needs to communicate something through their music? That the melody isn’t the most important aspect, but rather the ability to connect with the audience?” Noah questioned, his tone tinged with anger.

“Yes, but…” Crys tried to interject, only to be interrupted again.

“Then what should I communicate to my public? That my life is miserable? That is so fucking empty to be painful? Tell me Crys!” Noah’s voice rose unintentionally, his frustration evident. He clenched his trembling hands into fists and swallowed hard, trying to regain his composure. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to raise my voice at you.”

Crys responded to Noah’s outburst with a shake of his head, his hand coming to rest on Noah’s shoulder in a comforting gesture. “Don’t worry about it, Noah,” he reassured him, his voice carrying a note of understanding. “Just remember, music will always be there for you.”

Noah offered a weak smile in response, his head bobbing in a weak nod of acknowledgment. He reached for his jacket and stepped out into the biting winter chill. He yearned for an escape, a momentary respite from the world and its relentless march of time. He wanted to forget everything and everyone if only for a moment, to catch his breath. If only the time could stop, even for a moment… He found a strange humor in this thought but immediately made another attempt to push it away.

As he exited the theater, he was greeted by the familiar faces of Lanz and Joran, who were waiting for him as usual.

“Hey, mate! Ya absolutely killed it out there! What a finale!” Lanz exclaimed, his voice filled with genuine excitement. Joran, standing next to him, nodded in agreement, a smile playing on his lips.

“It was a magical performance, Noah!” Joran echoed Lanz’s sentiments. However, Noah could sense that Joran’s tone held more than just simple congratulations. Despite this, Noah managed a weak smile. Yes, it had indeed been an exceptional performance. Perhaps it was because he had allowed his desperation to seep into his music for the last time, or maybe it was just a stroke of luck.

“I need a drink. Shall we go to Kite’s pub?” he suggested. Lanz and Joran exchanged a glance. It had been roughly five years since Noah had last suggested going out for drinks. Noah understood their concern but hoped they would agree without asking too many questions. He wasn’t in the mood for a lengthy discussion.

“Ah, that sounds… like a fantastic idea! First round’s on me,” Lanz declared, grinning as he led the way through the bustling streets of Colony 9, which were blanketed in a thin layer of snow. As Noah followed his two closest friends, he found himself gazing up at the overcast sky. The grey, cloudy weather seemed to mirror his current state of mind perfectly.

***

“ ‘ re you sure, mate? ‘nother one?” Lanz asked, his voice laced with concern as he watched Noah signal the waiter for another cocktail. Noah had already downed four strong cocktails and was beginning to struggle to stay upright.

“It’s been a heavy day for him,” Joran pointed out, his tone echoing Lanz’s worry.

“You’re damn right,” Noah slurred, his words thick with intoxication. He had missed the fleeting relief that alcohol provided, the way it made him feel weightless, emptied his mind and dissolved his burdens.

“Yeah, I get it, but destroying his liver ain’t going to help him,” Lanz sighed, his gaze fixed on his friend whose head was starting to wobble dangerously. For a moment, he feared Noah might topple off his chair. “Eunie would probably say the same thing.”

At the mention of her name, Noah nearly leapt from his chair, his fist slamming onto the table. The sudden outburst drew the attention of the other patrons in the pub.

“Eunie isn’t here, is she?!” he bellowed, his words soaked in alcohol and anger.

“Whoa, whoa! Take it easy, mate!” Lanz quickly stood, trying to calm Noah down and prevent him from causing a scene in the pub.

“She’ll be back soon, I’m sure,” Joran added, also rising to his feet in an attempt to soothe Noah.

“She’s not!” Noah shouted back, “She abandoned me just like everyone else does!!”

“Noah…” Joran tried to intervene, but Noah was beyond reasoning.

“Nobody is abandoning you!” Lanz retorted, a hint of anger creeping into his voice. He then turned to Joran, ignoring Noah’s protests, “Let’s get him home. He’s completely drunk.”

Joran nodded slowly, apologizing to the other customers for their friend’s behavior before heading to Kite to settle the bill.

“I… fuck,” Noah muttered, his hands cradling his head. The euphoric sensation he had been chasing was now replaced by the harsh reality of his inebriated state. His thoughts were a whirlwind of chaos, his stomach churned with nausea, and the room seemed to spin faster with each passing second. He offered no resistance as Lanz, seeing his friend’s state, took him by the arms and practically dragged him out of the pub.

Once outside, the cold air hit his face, and he could no longer hold back. He retched into a corner of the street, his body convulsing with each heave. Both his friends sighed in unison, helping him to avoid choking and keeping his long black hair out of the way. When he finally finished, he felt utterly drained and disoriented. All he wanted was to crawl into bed and let the darkness consume him, to disappear from the world.

“Stay with him. Imma get the Levnis,” Lanz grumbled to Joran, who responded with a weak nod of agreement before Lanz turned and headed in the direction of their vehicle.

“It’s okay, Noah. Just breathe,” Joran reassured him, doing his best to support him. Noah was so drunk that he could barely stand upright. Joran slid one arm around Noah’s neck, forcing him to lean on him for support.

“Joran…” Noah’s words were slurred, his gaze unfocused as he looked at his friend. “What… the hell I… doing? Have I… gone back?”

“No, you haven’t. It’s okay, this hasn’t happened in a long time. This doesn’t mean anything,” Joran tried to reassure him, forcing a smile onto his face even though he knew Noah was too intoxicated to comprehend his words. Fortunately, Lanz arrived with the Levnis just in time, and together they managed to hoist Noah into the vehicle and settle him into the back seat.

“We can’t just leave him like this,” Joran stated, glancing back at Noah from the front seat. Lanz snorted in disagreement but didn’t voice any objections.

“You should have seen this coming, Lanz,” Joran sighed. “You knew this was how it was going to end.”

“I bloody know that,” Lanz retorted, his grip on the steering wheel tightening. “It’s just… I always hoped that a normal drink could be… ya know, like before.” Joran sighed again and shook his head. They had had this conversation countless times, but Lanz was still struggling to accept Noah’s current state. He placed a comforting hand on Lanz’s, knowing it would have a calming effect on him. As expected, Lanz’s expression softened slightly.

“Y’ want to take him home, dontja?” Lanz asked, a resigned smile on his face. Joran returned his smile and nodded. “Aw, shit. Don’t give me those pippito eyes. Y’ know I can’t resist!” Lanz laughed, casting a sidelong glance at Joran. He took Joran’s hand in his own and brought it to his lips for a gentle kiss. Joran blushed deeply but continued to smile.

“I’m always amazed by how kind-hearted you are,” he said, his smile warm. “Even when you try to hide it!” With a final glance at Noah, who had finally succumbed to sleep, Joran turned his attention back to the road ahead.

***

“What’s with that face, lil’ bird?” Ashera chuckled, her eyes dancing with amusement as she took in Eunie’s petrified expression. Eunie was frozen in place, her mind a whirlwind of panic and confusion. Fear gripped her tightly, causing her to gasp for breath. The sounds around her seemed distant and muffled, time itself seemed to slow down, and all she could do was surrender to the fear consuming her.

“Doctor Antiqua, Doctor Antiqua! What should we do?! More are coming!” The urgent call snapped Eunie back to reality. Antiqua. That was her. She shook her head vigorously, trying to regain her composure. She just had to follow the protocol, as she always did. They were expecting a large number of casualties since they had received an urgent SOS from a platoon that had been attacked by rebels just twenty minutes ago. Her unit was prepared to assist all the wounded. She needed to guide her team through the ensuing chaos, a common occurrence whenever an attack of this magnitude happened.

But why… why were her muscles refusing to obey her commands? Why was her mind shrouded in a fog of confusion? Could it be because she was standing amidst the injured, witnessing the aftermath of the attack firsthand?

“Ehi lil’ bird, I think the nurses need your help,” Ashera remarked, her voice dripping with her characteristic sarcasm.

“Follow the protocol. Triage the patients - identify who is beyond help, who needs immediate surgery, and who can be treated with simple bandages. Get moving, NOW!” Eunie finally found her voice, rallying her team into action. Chaos erupted around her as medical personnel scrambled to attend to the wounded soldiers. She had to weave her way through the pandemonium to reach Ashera’s stretcher, where she lay drenched in blood.

Eunie paled as she took in the sight of Ashera’s injuries. She felt a surge of anger, a desire to yell, to punch Ashera so hard it would break her nose. But all she could muster was the strength to grab sterilized gauze and start applying pressure to the wounds. Ashera’s face was a mask of blood, the left side marred by what looked like a second-degree burn. Her left limbs were similarly burnt, with numerous metal splinters embedded in her skin. Her arm was bent at an unnatural angle, a clear indication of broken bones.

“Why the hell…” she muttered under her breath, infusing ether to begin healing the superficial wounds. They needed to get Ashera to the operating room and start suturing her wounds. “Why were ya even there, you clod?!”

Ashera turned to look at her, a smile playing on her lips as if she was having the time of her life. “Oh, y’ know I can’t resist a good skirmish,” she replied, her head resting comfortably on her pillow. “I was bored since you left me alone this morning.”

In any other circumstance, Eunie would have summoned her Blade and shot her then and there. But at that moment, feeling the life slowly ebbing away from Ashera, she bit her lip so hard it bled. She made a silent vow to the white feathers of her mother that she would save Ashera, no matter what it took.

***

Eunie was a picture of exhaustion. She had been operating non-stop for an entire day, her body running on fumes without the sustenance of sleep, food, or even adequate hydration. After conducting a final check on all her patients, she finally allowed herself a moment of respite.

As she made her way to the dorms, she passed by Ashera’s room. Ashera was in recovery following a major surgery performed by the High Aentia itself. A team of three nurses were diligently monitoring her vital signs and administering the prescribed medications. Despite her critical condition, Eunie held onto the belief that Ashera would pull through.

As always.

Because that fucking Ardun was too stubborn to die unless she decided that her time had come.

Eunie entered the small dormitory provided by the military hospital and collapsed onto the first available bed. Sleep had always been elusive for her, and ever since she woke up in Bionis after Aionios, the nightmares that haunted her there continued to plague her in this life. As a result, she had resorted to taking sleeping pills every night when she desperately needed rest. However, today, her exhaustion was so profound that she didn’t need any aid to fall asleep. As soon as her body hit the bed, she was claimed by sleep.

A few hours later, she was roused from her slumber by a nurse, as per her instructions. She quickly freshened up before beginning her rounds, starting with Ashera. As she had predicted, Ashera’s vital signs were stable, and she had made it through the night. The fact that she had survived despite the severity of her injuries was nothing short of a medical miracle. Eunie prescribed new medications and ordered additional tests to assess the need for another surgery.

“Once the X-rays and the MRI are completed, tell the technician to contact me directly,” Eunie instructed one of the nurses attending to Ashera. The nurse nodded, fully aware of the close bond between them, a fact known to everyone in the unit. Eunie hoped this understanding was due to their relationship and not because she was the adopted daughter of the Queen herself. With a grumble at the thought, she moved on to the next patient awaiting her attention.

***

After a grueling week, Ashera was able to stay awake for a few hours at a time, and Eunie had begun to reduce her morphine dosage, much to Ashera’s chagrin. Eunie entered the room, medical folder in hand, the latest test results displayed prominently on the first few pages.

“Well, look who’s here. What an honor for a humble lieutenant like me to receive a visit from the princess herself,” Ashera greeted her, a teasing smile playing on her half-bandaged face.

“Cut it off, Ashera,” Eunie retorted sharply. This was the first time since the accident that they had been able to speak privately. She pulled up a chair and sat down next to Ashera’s bed.

“My, my,” Ashera chuckled, “Alright, I’m ready for your lecture. Go ahead, princess, I’m all…” Her words were cut short by Eunie’s outburst.

“Wot the fuck were ‘u doing in the Fallen Arm with another platoon?!” Eunie’s tone was furious, her wings flapping agitatedly, mirroring her heightened emotions, and her head felt like it was about to explode. Ashera seemed to calm down for a moment, studying Eunie’s face carefully as if trying to gauge her limits.

“Killing the rebels. What else? Mechonis isn’t exactly a vacation hotspot right now,” she explained as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. “The commander asked if my platoon could join. If I could join, because y’ know how good I am at killing those bastards. How could I say no to her pretty face?”

Eunie sighed, placing a hand on her face in an attempt to calm herself down, but to no avail. She knew Ashera was referring to Ethel. She made a mental note to speak to her later; she couldn’t take advantage of Ashera’s blood thirst every time! She looked back at Ashera, ready to unleash her pent-up frustration and anger, but stopped when she noticed that Ashera’s demeanor had changed.

“I’m sorry, lil’ bird. I should have told you. We weren’t expecting an ambush that day. That area had been declared clear days before,” Ashera said, her gaze intense. Eunie looked at her, then back at the folder in her hands.

“I’m sending you home, Ashera. I’ll talk to Ethel later so she can start processing your discharge paperwork,” she said, her voice devoid of energy. She didn’t have the strength to engage in the same arguments with Ashera as always. She stood up to leave, but before she could exit the room, Ashera spoke.

“Y’ know, I’ll come back. As always.”

Eunie didn’t even bother to look back, she simply left the room without uttering a word. She was seriously considering amputating Ashera’s limbs instead of fixing them. Perhaps that would quell her bloodlust. But Eunie knew that even without limbs, Ashera would return to the battlefield. Because that was the only thing that mattered in her life, and Eunie was powerless to prevent her from risking her life on every mission.

***

Noah’s eyes fluttered open slowly, his gaze fixating on the stark white ceiling above him. He lay there for what felt like an eternity, his mind a whirlpool of confusion and discomfort. His head throbbed with a relentless ache, his stomach churned with a fiery sensation, and the taste of alcohol lingered on his tongue. Despite the heavy curtains drawn across the window, a few stray rays of light managed to filter through, their brightness piercing his sensitive eyes. The unmistakable signs of a hangover were all too familiar to him.

Shit. Again.

It took him a moment to register his surroundings. This wasn’t his bedroom, but it was a place he recognized. As he pushed himself up to a sitting position, realization dawned on him: he was in Lanz and Joran’s house, specifically in their guest room. He cursed himself to have let himself be again his past self.

The rich aroma of brewing coffee wafted into the room, tickling his nostrils. He heard the faint sound of footsteps outside the locked door. Gathering all his strength, he decided to get up and express his gratitude to his hosts. It was the least he could do. He couldn’t recall the events of the previous day, but he had a nagging feeling that he had said something he shouldn’t have. It was a recurring theme lately, and the alcohol only exacerbated the issue. Noah clenched his fists, his knuckles turning white as he gripped the bedsheet. He was drinking too much again, he knew that. And then, before he could stop himself, a question surfaced in the fog of his mind: What would Mio think of him if she saw him in this state?

At this thought, a wave of nausea washed over him, his mind spinning and his stomach twisting in protest. He bolted towards the private bathroom in the room, surrendering to the urge to empty his stomach of its contents.

Noah’s eyes fluttered open, his gaze unfocused as he slowly regained consciousness. His head pounded with a relentless ache, his stomach churned with discomfort, and the bitter taste of alcohol lingered on his tongue. He was in the throes of a hangover. Again.

“Are you okay, Noah? Can I come in?” Joran’s voice, laced with concern, reached him from the other side of the door. Noah couldn’t muster a response, his body wracked with coughs as he struggled to draw breath between bouts of nausea. After a moment’s hesitation, Joran entered the room and made his way to the bathroom. He didn’t utter a word, simply knelt beside Noah and gently held his hair back to keep it clean.

As his condition improved, Noah managed to whisper a weak “Thank you.” Joran shook his head and helped him to his feet.

“I’ve prepared some coffee and an antiacid for your stomach,” Joran said, his voice steady as he waited for Noah to leave the room so he could open the windows. Noah grumbled something incoherent and followed him downstairs to the brightly lit kitchen. Joran handed him a cup of warm coffee and a glass of water with an antiacid tablet next to it.

Noah immediately took the antacid before slowly sipping the hot beverage. “Where’s Lanz?” he asked, his gaze scanning the room for his best friend.

“He’s at work. But he’ll be back soon. The gym closes at 2 pm on Sundays,” Joran explained. Noah nearly choked on his coffee when he realized the time.

“Damn! I overslept! I’m so sorry, Joran,” he sighed. Joran dismissed his apology with a wave of his hand.

“Don’t worry about it. Seriously. We’re always happy to have you here,” he replied, his voice calm and reassuring. Noah didn’t say anything else, simply sipping his coffee while occasionally glancing at Joran. His sweet, innocent face was just as Noah remembered from their time in Aionios, though he was now taller and leaner. He still had that distinctive green lock of hair falling over his right eye. Joran and Lanz had been married for ten years and together for fifteen. They had realized their feelings for each other when they were around twenty and had been inseparable ever since. In hindsight, it was so obvious that Lanz had certain feelings for him, so nobody was really surprised when they started dating.

Noah was genuinely happy for them, but he couldn’t shake off a pang of jealousy that gnawed at him. He felt a wave of guilt wash over him for harboring such feelings, but it was a sentiment that was beyond his control.

Why couldn’t he have the same?

Sometimes, he found himself questioning his decisions. He wondered if breaking the endless now of now was truly the best choice he could have made. The thought sent a wave of panic through him; it was eerily similar to N’s line of thinking. But no! Even if he couldn’t be with the love of his life, at least everyone was now free from the eternal war.

Things were as they were meant to be.

“You know that my offer still stands,” Joran’s voice broke through his turbulent thoughts. It took Noah a moment to comprehend what he was referring to. Then he remembered: Joran was a psychologist and had repeatedly offered to lend him an ear, to provide a safe space for him to talk. Noah often wondered why Joran had chosen to become a psychologist, especially given his past, but Joran always met his doubts with a smile. It was precisely because of his past that he decided to help people on a mental level. He too had to navigate through his past and understand why he had chosen to join the Moebius side at one point, even though he had redeemed himself later. He realized that his wounds were not physical, but emotional.

Noah didn’t want to worry anyone and was convinced that there was nothing wrong with him. Moreover, he feared that delving deep into his subconscious might bring N’s personality to the surface again. It had happened once before, who’s to say it wouldn’t happen again? So he kept reassuring himself that his reaction was normal, that anyone with a similar past would react the same way. It was just a phase, it would pass.

That was his mantra.

He was about to decline Joran’s offer once again when they heard the door open and Lanz walked in. They both glanced at the kitchen clock, which read 1.15 pm. Why was he home so early? Before either of them could ask, Lanz spoke up.

“Eunie and Ashera are back. They’re being taken to Fiora Hospital. The cargo that was bringing them home got attacked and they’re both injured!” he announced, his voice filled with distress. “Imma take the Levnis. Let’s go, you two.”

Joran sprang from his chair and rushed to grab his coat. Noah blinked several times, trying to process what Lanz had just said. Lanz popped his head into the kitchen.

“Hey, mate, move your ass!” he barked at Noah. Noah looked back at him, and before he could utter a word, Lanz stepped in and practically dragged him out of the kitchen. “I ain’t going to hear any excuses from you, ‘lright? I don’t fucking care that you two fought. That doesn’t matter. She needs us. Now!”

Noah didn’t put up any resistance. Lanz was right: their fight didn’t matter now.

***

The room where Eunie was recuperating was strictly off-limits. Given her status as the adopted daughter of Queen Melia, the hospital staff were taking every precaution to ensure that news of the injured princess didn’t leak out and attract a swarm of paparazzi, clogging the hospital entrance. They also wanted to provide the queen with the privacy she needed to converse with her daughter.

Upon their arrival, the security personnel responsible for the royal family’s safety directed them to a secondary entrance of the hospital. “Third floor, fifth room,” he instructed briskly before allowing them to proceed. They nodded in acknowledgment and followed his directions until they reached the designated room. A host of guards were stationed at the door to prevent unauthorized entry. They managed to navigate past the security and entered the room.

Inside, they found Melia seated next to Eunie’s bed, her face etched with worry. She was gently stroking Eunie’s bandaged head. Eunie was conscious, although her heavy eyelids and half-closed eyes indicated that she was under the influence of morphine.

“Guys…” she mumbled upon seeing them, attempting to muster a smile, “I’m back.”

Lanz managed a smile as he cautiously approached her bed. “What a grand entrance for your homecoming!” he joked. “Ya really can’t help but draw attention, can ‘u? I mean, an entire platoon of guards all around the hospital. Y’re really going all out, featherbrain.”

Lanz never really paid attention to the royal etiquette so he didn’t realize that in the room there was the Queen herself who was also an Aentia. For him, Eunie remained the same old Eunie as in Aionios. And Eunie was so grateful to him for that. Melia on the other hand didn’t really seem to mind and smiled at him.

In a soft whisper, she uttered, “You spoon.”

Melia echoed the nickname “Featherbrain,” her voice tinged with amusement despite her evident worry.

In unison, they addressed Joran and Noah, “Your Majesty.”

Joran inquired, “How is she?” Melia let out a sigh before turning back to him.

Eunie, attempting to lighten the mood, responded with a hint of sarcasm, “Absolutely fantastic. Never been better.”

Melia began to detail Eunie’s condition, her voice heavy with concern. “She has multiple broken ribs, her left leg and arm were nearly severed from her body, and her liver was punctured. That’s not even mentioning all the wounds and bruises…” She had never understood her daughter’s decision to join the Army. Despite her best efforts to dissuade Eunie, she knew how stubborn her daughter could be. Eunie had refused to provide any explanation, but Melia could sense that something was amiss. She could feel the desperation hidden behind anger and determination, and the emptiness that she, as mother, was never able to fill.

Eunie retorted, “See? Never been better.” She then turned to her mother, “Go home, mum. I know ya busy.”

Melia shook her head, “My business can wait, darling,” she sighed, gently placing a hand on Eunie’s bandaged hand.

Joran respectfully intervened, “Your majesty, if I may. If you would like to take a short break, we can look after her.”

“C’mon, mum. Y’ve monopolized me enough. And I dunno how much longer I can stay awake, that drug is really doing its magic.” Eunie coughed.

Melia glanced at her daughter and then at her friends. She sighed and nodded, understanding her daughter’s need for some alone time with them. She slowly rose, kissed her gently on her forehead, and exited the room.

 “Oi, guys. What’s up?” Eunie finally asked her friends, her gaze landing on Noah, “Oh, look who’s here.”

Noah mumbled a few words before approaching her bed and taking a seat next to her. He was about to say something, but she beat him to it.

“Y’ look terrible,” she stated, causing Lanz to burst into laughter.

Noah blushed heavily and instinctively ran his hand through his hair, a habit he had when he was embarrassed.

“I-I don’t think you’re in the position to say that,” he mumbled after a while. She grinned, but the pain quickly wiped the smile off her face. They locked eyes and shared a weak smile, momentarily forgetting their past.

Noah couldn’t help but ask while reaching for her hand, “Who is the worst of us now?” Eunie grinned, ignoring the pain, as her eyelids began to droop.

“Heh. Good question,” she mumbled before being unable not to succumb to sleep.

***

BIONS. FIVE YEARS BEFORE.

“You think that the alcohol is a way to deal with the pain, you muppet?” Eunie’s voice echoed through the room, directed at her best friend who was barely managing to stay upright. His mind was a whirlwind of confusion due to the hangover, and at that moment, he almost resented her for raising her voice.

“I’m fucking tired to take you up every time ‘u’re drunk.” she spat out in frustration, her hands busily preparing coffee for him and tea for herself.

“Please, Eunie not now…” Noah pleaded weakly. His head was throbbing, and the harsh light was piercing his eyes.

“Not now, he says!” she chimed “Then when Noah?”. She glanced at him as he slumped into a kitchen chair. She was about to add something more when she noticed the tears welling up in his eyes. Eunie clenched her teeth, but then let out a sigh, attempting to calm herself down. She realized that this approach was not helping him. Without uttering another word, she continued to prepare their beverages.

Once their beverages were ready, they took their seats across from each other, enveloped in a silence that was almost palpable. It was a Saturday morning, and Eunie’s medical shift wouldn’t start until 2 pm, leaving her with a few hours to spare.

She cast a glance at her friend, someone she considered as close as a brother, and let out a sigh. She was at a loss for how to help him anymore. Every time her phone rang after 9 pm, she knew it was him. Eunie was doing her utmost to support him, to be there for him as a friend, but it was becoming increasingly challenging, draining, and exhausting.

She took a sip of her tea, her mind wandering back to the person who had taught her the recipe, as she tried to keep her thoughts from spiraling. She turned her gaze back to him, “Look, Noah, I…” she began, only to be interrupted by him.

“I already know, Eunie,” he responded, “I’m not in the mood for your lecture.”

That was the last straw for her! She had opened her home to him, cared for him in his worst state, and offered all the support she could muster, and this was his gratitude?! In a fit of anger, she slammed her fist on the table.

“Wot’s wrong ya?!” she yelled causing him to almost leap out from the chair “Bloody hell, Noah! Y’ have to react! Where the fuck is the guy who guided us in Aionios?!”. Her words caused Noah to rise to his feet, his gaze filled with anger. How could she dare to mention Aionios? She knew, she was fully aware of how much it hurt him!

“That guy is fucking dead, Eunie!” he roared back, “Without her, that guy no longer exists!”

“Wot the hell are ya saying?! U’re the one who is digging its own tomb! You need to…”

“Need to what, Eunie? Tell me! Go on! Hope? Dream? What’s the point of a life filled with nothing but empty hopes?” His head felt like it was about to split open, but his anger overshadowed the pain. He glared at her once more and hissed, “You can’t help me, you’ve never loved anyone as deeply as I loved Mio.”

His words hit Eunie like a barrage of bullets. She paled, her fists clenched on the table, her body trembling uncontrollably.

“Never, heh” she hissed, her voice seething with fury. Noah looked at her, taken aback by her reaction. Despite the lingering effects of his hangover, he realized he had crossed a line. It was true that Eunie had always been reticent about her feelings, but his last statement had been a step too far. He was aware of her deep affection for Ashera, even though she had never clarified the nature of their relationship.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean…” he began, only to be cut off by her sharp retort.

“How the hell, do ‘u fucking know how I feel Noah? Have you ever cared to ask, asshole?” She finally turned to face him, and for the first time since they had known each other, he saw her on the brink of tears. He opened his mouth to speak, but she cut him off again.

“ ‘U say I cannot know what you have been through. Well, last news muppet, I’m fucking the same! You never dared to ask how me and Lanz are doing, one single time!” Tears began to stream down her face, and her wings flapped sporadically, mirroring her emotional turmoil. “But we were okay with that! Because we’re your friends! We care about ya more than anyone else, and we can’t stand to see ‘u in such a miserable state!”

Noah was at a loss for words. He didn’t know how to react or what to say. Was there truth in Eunie’s words? He found himself reflecting on the years they had known each other, both before and after their time in Aionios. Like everyone else, the years following their awakening from Aionios were filled with hopes of reconnection. But as it became clear that the chances of reconnecting were dwindling with each passing year, he began to succumb to despair. He started to isolate himself from others, even his closest friends, and began to drink. He wasn’t an alcoholic, at least not yet, but he knew it was becoming a problem. Every time he had a bad day, he would end up drinking heavily in the evening. The only glimmers of joy were his friends who were always there for him. He knew how hard they tried to lift his spirits every day, but they seemed… fine. Lanz and Joran had found love in each other, and Eunie… well, Eunie was still the same old Eunie. The adoptive daughter of the Queen, she had refused to become a princess and instead pursued a career in medicine. Now, she was renowned throughout Bionis as one of the best surgeons and seemed content overall. So, from his perspective, Eunie’s words seemed… unfair.

“You seemed fine. You’ve achieved everything you wanted and found love with Ashera,” he stammered, attempting to defend himself.

At his words, the feathers of her wings bristled and her face flushed with anger. Noah instinctively stepped back, realizing that she was livid.

“Don’t you dare, Noah,” she hissed, her voice filled with fury, “Get out of my house. Now.”

Noah wasn’t taken aback by her demand in the slightest. He had already planned to head home as soon as he was sober enough to safely drive his Levnis. Without uttering a word, he picked up his jacket. As he reached the door, he cast a final glance over his shoulder. He could see her in the background, her body rigid, her hands gripping the kitchen counter, and a tea book laid out in front of her.

Noah recognized the book and a seed of doubt began to sprout within him. He realized he had made a grave error. He attempted to speak, but she cut him off with a sidelong glance, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

“ Y' didn’t understand a damn thing, Noah. U’re the worst. Now leave me alone,” she spat out.

A week later, Eunie enlisted in the Army, following in Ashera’s footsteps.

They haven’t spoken to each other since that day.

***

“You're going through a tough time, Noah. Losing someone you love is never easy. It doesn’t matter if it happens many years ago or just yesterday.” Joran said, his voice soft and understanding. He wore a gentle smile, filled with gratitude that Noah had finally agreed to his suggestion of starting therapeutic sessions together. Joran had a hunch that Eunie’s return had played a part in Noah’s decision, but he chose to set that thought aside for another day. He was well aware of the difficulty Noah faced when discussing Mio, his life, and the issues with his friends. He believed that bringing up these problems in this session would be counterproductive.

“I… I've lost my music too because it was… you know? Our thing! Without her, the notes, the melodies, they all seem meaningless now.” Noah confessed, his voice barely above a whisper. He buried his face in his hands, the profound sense of loss and emptiness within him as potent as ever. Ever since he lost the love of his life, the world around him had turned monochrome, stripped of all its vibrancy and meaning. His music, which used to be a source of joy and a means of expressing his emotions, now felt like a distant, fading memory. The burden of his loss felt unbearable, too heavy to carry.

“It's natural to feel this way, Noah. Love lost can be overwhelming. It can cloud everything else in your life.” Joran reassured him. Noah let out a sigh. He had never imagined that opening up about his feelings would be this painful. Could it be because he had suppressed them for almost forty years?

“She was my life, Joran. The only reason I carried on in this stupid life. Every note I played, every song I wrote, it was for her with the hope that even if we were apart, I could reach her in some way. Now, it feels like I've lost my ability to express myself.” Noah confessed, his voice heavy with sorrow.

“Your love for her and your love for music are deeply intertwined, something completely normal. It’s what distinguishes a good musician from an excellent musician. But remember, Noah, the music was in you before you met her. It's still there."

Noah wasn’t entirely convinced by Joran’s words, but he chose not to argue. The session had already taken a toll on him. His response was simple: “I just don't know how to reach it anymore, Joran.”

Joran smiled, seeing this as a small step forward. “And that’s perfectly fine, Noah. Healing is a process that takes time. You don’t need to rush yourself. Perhaps, with time, you’ll discover a new way to reconnect with her with your music.”

Joran firmly believed that music could serve as Noah’s anchor, providing a sense of purpose in his life. The thought of Noah giving up on music was worrying. He feared that his friend might revert to his old habits. Since Eunie’s departure, Noah had abstained from heavy drinking. He had dedicated his life to music, becoming the best flutist in all of Bionis. For a while, it seemed like things were improving. However, with each concert, and each performance, the sadness he carried within him grew until he decided to stop.

As Joran was about to conclude the session, Noah spoke up again. “I'm scared, Joran. I'm scared that as I grow older, my life will remain empty. That I'll be stuck in this void forever.”

Joran was momentarily taken aback by Noah’s words, but he wasn’t entirely surprised. This was another emotional knot that needed to be untangled.

“It's understandable to fear the unknown, Noah. And it's natural to fear that things won't change when you're in a state of loss. But remember, life is constantly changing.” he replied, his gaze studying Noah’s face intently.

“But what if I'm destined to live the rest of my life in this emptiness?” Noah asked, his voice barely above a whisper. The prospect of growing older and living a life devoid of meaning filled him with dread. He felt trapped in his grief, unable to move forward. Yet, amidst all this despair, there was a glimmer of hope. For the first time in his life, he was seeking help and opening up about his feelings. He had to believe that this process would work, not just for his sake, but for his friends as well.

“Noah, it's important to remember that our thoughts and fears about the future are just that - thoughts and fears. They are not reality. And while it's normal to have these fears, we shouldn't let them control our lives. We don’t know what the future holds for us.” Joran said, his voice steady and reassuring.

“But how can I not let them control me?” Noah asked, his voice filled with desperation.

Joran smiled at him and gently took his hand, a silent promise of his unwavering support.

“That's where we can work together, Noah. We can explore these fears, understand them, and learn how to manage them. Remember, it's okay to be afraid. But don't let your fear of aging keep you from experiencing life.”

Noah attempted to return the smile.

Was there really something to experience in this life?

***

Eunie stood before the mirror, her gaze falling upon her own reflection. A year had passed since the day when she and Ashera were ambushed on their way home. Their recovery was now essentially complete. The five years they had spent in the Army had left indelible marks on their bodies, a testimony to the trials they had undergone. While these physical reminders didn’t particularly bother them, Eunie found her mind involuntarily drifting back to memories she would rather forget.

Abruptly, she halted her train of thought, yanking out a feather with a swift, violent motion. It was a little trick she had picked up over the years. The sharp sting of pain served as a distraction, allowing her to regain her mental clarity. She returned her attention to her reflection. As an Entia, her body had the remarkable ability to heal without any long-term consequences. However, the scars were a different story. They might fade over time, but they could never be completely erased. No matter how much ether she infused, the scars remained, a constant reminder of her past.

For Ashera, these scars were a badge of honor. Eunie could now understand why Ashera had earned the title of ‘suicidal maniac’ in Aionios. She had always been fearless, even back in Bionis.

“Oh, my lil bird is getting ready for me?” Ashera’s voice echoed towards her. Eunie let out a sigh before turning to face her. Standing naked by the door, she had her arms crossed over her chest and a lustful expression on her face. Her body bore numerous scars from injuries and surgeries she had undergone, but what caught the eye was the black metallic prosthetic on her right leg. She had lost that limb during the attack on their homecoming, and Eunie had directly approached Shulk and Nicol to create a custom-made prosthetic for her. As always, Ashera adapted quickly to it and even suggested some modifications to make it more practical for mobility. Despite it all, Eunie couldn't help but find her absolutely stunning and could only roll her eyes with amusement.

"Heh," she grinned, "maybe." Ashera let out a laugh and approached her, wrapping her arms around her from behind. Eunie could catch a whiff of her shampoo, indicating that she had just finished showering, and she relaxed into the embrace. It felt so familiar and comforting to have her body against hers.

“Wanna do it in front of the mirror, dear? What a naughty bird,” she playfully teased, resting her head on her shoulder and observing their bodies intertwined before the reflective surface. Eunie blushed slightly, despite the passing years, she always found a way to make her feel embarrassed. Eunie prided herself on being adventurous when it came to matters of intimacy, but Ashera... well, she was on a whole other level.

“What were you looking?” she asked with curiosity, her hands beginning to caress Eunie's thighs.

“Nothin’ just... my body,” Eunie replied, a soft gasp escaping her lips as she felt Ashera's hand gently squeeze her breast.

“Your beautiful body you wanna say,” Ashera whispered provocatively into her ear, causing goosebumps to rise on Eunie's skin and her legs to tremble slightly.

“Mmm,” was all Eunie managed to utter before Ashera kissed her earlobe and pulled her onto the bed, positioning herself on top.

"Ah... fuck!" Eunie moaned as she felt Ashera's skillful fingers teasing her most sensitive areas. "Ash! Slow down... Ah! Oh, shit!" Eunie attempted to grab her lover's arm, but with a swift movement, Ashera managed to seize both of her wrists and hold them above her head.

Eunie could sense the heat rising rapidly, Ashera knew exactly how to satisfy her, how to bring her to climax quickly, and how much she enjoyed a bit of roughness. However, today Eunie felt that Ashera was being rougher than usual, more impatient than normal. Her kisses were intense and left Eunie breathless. Then, Ashera moved down to her neck and began nibbling on her skin. Eunie moaned as she felt the gentle suction, knowing that she would have a mark there for the next few days. It seemed like Ashera wanted to leave a permanent mark on her flesh this time. She paused momentarily before moving closer to Eunie's collarbone and repeating the action. Eunie felt like she was on the brink of madness, only able to whimper as she felt herself stretching and pulsating inside.

Ashera's fingers inside her started moving faster and faster, while her thumb applied just the right pressure on her clit, causing Eunie to climax so intensely that her whole body trembled for minutes before gradually calming down. Ashera seemed satisfied and finally released her hands, gently kissing Eunie on the cheek.

"Wot... was that for?" Eunie gasped, her breath catching in her chest. Ashera chuckled and settled herself on the edge of the bed. Eunie looked at her, confusion etched across her face. Where was Ashera going? Wasn't it her turn? Did she want to do it somewhere other than the bedroom? Eunie rolled onto her side and stared at Ashera intently. Why did she have this nagging feeling that the orgasm was... almost a way to seek forgiveness? Ashera often resorted to sex when she didn't want to or couldn't argument.

As Eunie's mind raced, searching for answers, a doubt began to creep in. Her face turned pale and her eyes widened in alarm.

“Ash…” Eunie’s voice faltered, her words barely a whisper, “No, don’t do it. Please…” Ashera turned to face her, her usual sarcastic demeanor replaced by an uncharacteristic seriousness.

“You promised me!” Eunie cried out, her voice filled with disbelief and anger. She couldn’t accept what was happening. She refused to.

“I didn’t make any promises! I said I would consider it,” Ashera retorted, her voice harsh. But then she noticed the pain in Eunie’s eyes and softened her tone. “I’m sorry, lil’ bird,” she sighed, standing up. “I planned on writing you a letter tomorrow morning but… well, you know me. I’ve never been good with words.”

“But why?! Why can’t y’ just stay here and… be happy? With me?!” Eunie’s voice trembled, tears welling up in her eyes as desperation took hold.

Ashera let out a bitter laugh at her words. “Yeah, why can’t we?” she muttered sarcastically. She then turned her gaze towards the window. “Because this life is nothing more than a façade, Eunie. And you know that as well as I do.”

Eunie clenched the sheet in her hand so tightly that she thought she might rip it apart. The reality of the situation was too much to bear.

“Fighting is what I’m. I was a soldier back then and I’m a soldier in this life. No matter which world is this one, my soul will always be the same.” She explained. Ashera’s decision to return back to fight in Mechonis was driven by a deep sense of duty and identity, Eunie knew that. She always saw herself as a soldier, someone who was called to fight over and over. This was not just a job for her, but a fundamental part of who she was.

Moreover, Ashera always found a sense of purpose in the midst of conflict. The war, with all its chaos and uncertainty, was where she felt most alive and most herself. It was where she felt she could make the most difference.

Ashera loved Eunie and she was certain that Eunie reciprocated her feelings, therefore the decision wasn’t easy. However, Ashera was also perfectly aware that she alone wasn’t enough for Eunie. Eunie was still searching for something that Ashera knew she couldn’t provide.

“I’m not following ya this time…” Eunie whispered before screaming out all her anger “I refuse to fucking see you dying out there!”

“Even better than expected then.” Ashera retorted, her voice heavy with resignation, “This time, I don’t want you to follow me.”

Eunie was taken aback by her words, managing only to stammer out a single question, “W-why?”

Ashera chuckled, a hint of amusement in her voice. “Well, if I were to die, the last words I’ll hear will be ‘I told you so!’ Geez, that wouldn’t be fun at all!”

***

That year, the winter in Bionis was particularly harsh. Snowflakes fell relentlessly, blanketing everything in a pristine white layer. Eunie was bundled up in her warmest attire, yet the biting cold still managed to seep into her bones. She knew standing out in such weather wasn’t wise, but she couldn’t bring herself to leave. Not just yet.

Her gaze was vacant as she stared into the distance, the bouquet of flowers still clutched in her hand. Gathering all her strength, she slowly knelt and placed the flowers before her.

“I’m sorry, Ash… I know y’ don’t like flowers,” she whispered, tears tracing a path down her cheeks.

She stood up, pulling her orange scarf tighter around her head in a futile attempt to ward off the cold.

Ashera never returned from her last mission.

Eunie had never felt such a profound sense of loss. She found herself screaming into the void, her voice echoing through the deserted cemetery. She cursed at the world, at everyone and everything. Amidst the chaos of her thoughts and the intensity of her pain, a wave of anger washed over her. An irrational thought surfaced in her mind.

“Wot kind of reliable person are you if you can’t be here for me now? Stupid four-eyes!”

When she finally ran out of breath, she turned her back on the grave and began the slow walk home, to a house where no one awaited her return.

Chapter Text

"So, it has come to this, just you and me. Wot a snuffing honor," she said, her voice echoing with melancholic laughter that filled the desolate battlefield of Old Khama. She stood there, a lone figure bathed in blood, amidst the lifeless husks of her comrades whose red motes were slowly being absorbed by his flame clock.

Taion was usually a man of few words but this time, he thought she deserved a reply, "It is certain pleasant that it will be my hands that end your journey." His usual stoic demeanor was betrayed by the pain from the wound on his side. The bleeding was relentless, and there was no healer in sight capable of tending to such a grievous injury. His home, Colony Beta, like the enemy's Colony Five, were completely destroyed, and they were the last ones respectively from their colony.

"Feeling's mutual, four-eyes," she retorted, her laughter ringing out once more as she summoned her weapon of choice - a double-edged sword. Taion, not one to be outdone, followed suit, calling forth his twin sword blades.

Their eyes locked in a silent challenge, their breaths mingling with the cold air.

With a sudden burst of energy, Taion lunged at Eunie, his twin swords slicing through the air. Eunie parried the attack with her double-edged sword, the clash of steel echoing through the empty field. They danced around each other, their movements a deadly ballet of power and precision.

Taion attacked relentlessly, his swords moving in a blur of silver. But Eunie was no less formidable, her double-edged sword meeting each of Taion’s strikes with equal force. Sparks flew as their blades collided, illuminating the battlefield with each clash.

Despite his dual weapons, Taion struggled to break through Eunie’s defenses. Her double-edged sword was a whirlwind of steel, deflecting his attacks with ease. But Taion was relentless, his determination fueling his onslaught.

Suddenly, Eunie saw an opening. With a swift movement, she thrust her sword towards Taion. He tried to dodge, but it was too late. The sword pierced his side, drawing a gasp of pain from him. But in that moment, Taion also found an opening. With a swift, desperate move, he plunged one of his swords into Eunie’s chest.

They stood there, locked in their deadly embrace, their lifeblood seeping onto the cold ground. Eunie’s sword slipped from her grasp, clattering onto the ground. Taion’s swords followed suit, their metallic clang echoing in the silence.

Slowly, they sank to their knees, their strength fading and they collapsed into each other arms. Eunie, with a final grin etched on her face, leaned against Taion's Agnian jacket, now stained with the crimson hue of their battle. She slowly slid down until her head found a resting place on his lap.

"Wot a joke," she coughed, blood spattering from her lips, "Dying in the arms of my sworn enemy."

Taion remained silent, his gaze fixed on the overcast sky above them. He had failed in his duty as a commander. Despite employing his best strategies, he was well aware of the prowess of his adversary, the commander of Colony Five. Their battles were numerous, so much so that he had lost count, and neither had managed to secure a decisive victory.

When his consul ordered the obliteration of the Kevesi colony, he wasn't taken aback. He had spent days studying the plan, but the consul's impatience left him with no time to refine his tactics. His colony, with its fewer soldiers, had forced him to rely heavily on his strategic acumen to counter his opponent. However, the effectiveness of his tactics was debatable. From one perspective, they had only partially succeeded; from another, they had failed entirely. Yes, he had managed to obliterate the enemy colony, but the price paid was exorbitant. His entire colony had fallen, and he was on the brink of joining them in their fate.

This could have been chalked up as yet another stalemate in their long history of conflict. But this time, the cost had been far too steep. A realization dawned on him - had it not been for the Consul's orders, they both might have chosen to retreat. He had come to understand her throughout their battles, and he knew that she valued the lives of her comrades as much as he did his own.

And now, he had her in his arms. He lacked the strength and the will to push her away from him. After years of relentless battling, he had come to a startling realization - he respected her. A Kevesi! The thought was almost blasphemous. Yet, if he was destined to die, he was glad it was against her, such a formidable adversary.

Perhaps in another life, in another world, things could have been different...

"Oi..." she murmured, her voice barely a whisper as she tried to draw his attention. Her breath became more a whisper and the first motes began to rise from her body. "I... I'm glad I could..." She couldn’t or she didn’t want to finish the sentence.

Taion looked into her eyes, seeing a myriad of emotions reflected in them - exhaustion, pain, relief, and a hint of fear of the unknown that awaited her beyond life.

"Me too," he whispered back, placing a comforting hand on her head. He didn't want her to be afraid. He was scared too, but having her there with him brought a strange sense of peace. She deserved that much. Plus, for reasons he couldn't quite fathom, he had always been curious about the feel of her unusual wings. She probably wouldn't mind him touching them now.

As his mind began to fade and his vision blurred, he glanced at his hand resting on her head. He could see his own motes beginning to rise. The time has come also for him.

And then, they fell, their bodies collapsing onto the cold, hard ground. Their fight was over, their lives extinguished on the battlefield they had turned into their final resting place.

Taion found himself jolted awake, his heart pounding in his chest as if threatening to burst free. Sweat trickled down his forehead, his breaths coming in short, rapid gasps akin to those he'd take after an intense training session. Tears traced a wet path down his cheeks. He swallowed hard, the taste of fear lingering in his mouth as he grappled with the remnants of the dream that had shaken him so.

He was used to nightmares, but they were usually a jumbled mess of confusion, their details fading with the morning light. But this time was different. This time, the dream had felt so vivid, so real, it was as if he had lived it.

As his eyes adjusted to the darkness of the room, reality began to seep back in. He glanced anxiously at Mio, worried that his abrupt awakening might have disturbed her sleep. But she seemed to be in a peaceful slumber, a serene smile gracing her face. In stark contrast to his own turbulent dreams, she appeared to be having a pleasant one. Her fluffy ears twitched occasionally, and he could hear the soft purring sounds she made from time to time.

A smile tugged at the corners of his lips, unbidden. He was certain she was dreaming about Noah, and he was glad that in her dreams, she could be with him.

He slid back under the covers, hoping to return to sleep. But sleep eluded him. His gaze fell on his trembling hands, and he could almost see Eunie's blood staining them.

It was going to be another sleepless night...

***

"Hey, done shaking in your boots?" A voice echoed across the training camp, pulling Sena out of her thoughts. She scanned her surroundings until her gaze landed on a muscular Kevesi guy standing before her.

"A-are you talking me?" she asked, her complexion paling. He sighed and nodded in affirmation.

"Yep. Don't see anyone else ‘round," he grumbled. "Why are y’ here, just standing instead of training? A strong girl like you shouldn't be slacking off."

Sena was taken aback by his words. Her? Strong? She was merely a second-term cadet, and he was... what? A fifth? A sixth? She studied his face and noticed the mark on his chin: he was a fourth-term. How was it possible that he was already so... well-built?

"I-I think you've mistaken me for someone else..." she stammered nervously.

"Nah, don't think so. Not many girls around here have hair with fire," he grinned, causing her to blush and instinctively reach up to touch her distinctive hair as if trying to hide it. "Name's Lanz, by the way." He extended his hand towards her, which she hesitated for a moment before shaking.

"I'm Sena," she replied softly as he helped her to her feet.

"Yeah, I know," he chuckled. "See, the thing is, I've seen you take down cadets twice your size and older than you. So, I thought, why not ask her to train with me? Sparks, I've been looking for a training partner for two years now, but everyone seems to be scared of me. I also saw that y’ve difficulties finding mates as well. So here, I’m!"

Sena was at a loss for words. Why would a complete stranger approach her for training?

“Have better things to do?” he teased, noticing her stunned silence. “C’mon, we may be the next Ouroboros pair, I really need a mate. Someone strong, like you!”

"But..." Sena tried to protest weakly, but he simply pulled her towards the center of the training camp.

Lanz summoned his weapons - a blade, a circular shield, and a gun. Sena followed suit, summoning her Blade, two guns, and she bit her lip nervously.

"What's the matter?" Lanz asked, puzzled by her reaction.

"Sorry, it's just... an odd sensation," she mumbled. "It happens every time I summon this Blade."

"Huh?"

Sena shook her head. "I dunno.. It just feels... wrong, somehow. I've tried with others, but nothing seems to work."

Lanz dismissed his Blade and stroked his chin thoughtfully. "Hmm, that's a problem," he grumbled. "I can't even begin to imagine how formidable you'd be if we found the right Blade for ya! I mean, y're already pretty strong, even with the wrong ones!"

"R-really, it's not that big of a deal..." she tried to downplay, a blush creeping onto her face.

"I've got an idea! Why don't we train together and try out a bunch of new Blades until we find the right one? To be honest, I'm not too happy of the one I have either!" he snapped his fingers, clearly pleased with his idea, and flashed her a smile.

Sena's eyes sparkled at his suggestion. "You... you would really do that?" she asked, astonished. Lanz nodded, his smile unwavering.

"That's what a good buddy would do, right?" He then raised his hand for a high-five. "So, what do you say, partner?"

Sena returned his high-five, a single tear of joy sliding down her cheek. "I think that's a fantastic idea, partner!"

Sena's eyes fluttered open, a smile playing on her lips. What a dream! So vivid, so unique, so... beautiful. The screen of the device was still on and the a children’s show was playing in the background. She found herself on the couch, her children peacefully asleep on her lap, probably felt asleep after a while they were there. It seemed she too had drifted off at some point.

She smiled, her hand gently stroking their heads, her mind still wrapped in the warm embrace of the dream she had just had. "Oh, Lanz..." she whispered, gently brushing a stray lock of hair from Saigiri's face. "I miss you so much. I'm sure you would have loved them."

A single tear escaped her eye, tracing a wet path down her cheek. She couldn't help it. All she could do was tighten her hold on her children, their presence offering a small measure of comfort.

***

On a cool, crisp evening, Noah finally found the courage to ask Mio to date. They had known each other since their colonies were freed by the Lost Numbers and since they met, their affinity only grow day by day. It seemed that they had known each other since… forever. Since it was his idea, and knowing how much they both loved the music he decided to take her to a music event.

They met at a small, intimate live music venue in the heart of the City. The place was known for its eclectic mix of performances, a perfect setting for two music lovers.

Noah secured a table near the stage, the soft glow of the overhead lights casting a warm hue over his excited face. He nervously adjusted his red jacket and dusted off his black pants, his heart pounding in anticipation.

Mio walked in a few minutes later. Her eyes sparkled with excitement as she scanned the room, her heart skipping a beat when she spotted Noah.

Their eyes met, and for a moment, the world seemed to stand still. Noah stood up and greeted Mio with a warm smile, his nervousness melting away at the sight of her.

“E-ehi!” Noah stammered blushing slightly. Why was his heart pounding so fast?

“Good evening, Noah!” she smiled back, kissing him gently to the cheek, something she learnt from the people of the City. She loved that and she loved even more to do it with Noah, to see his cheeks blushing heavily and his skin pressed against her lips. They sat down and started enjoying the show, both slightly nervous and unused to these new feelings that they had.

Despite some anxiety in the beginning, after a while they found themselves naturally laughing, chatting, and even singing along to some of their favorite songs during all night. The connection between them was palpable, their shared passion for music acting as a beautiful symphony, orchestrating their interactions.

As the night was drawing to a close, they found themselves standing outside the music venue, bathed in the soft glow of the streetlights. The air was filled with the lingering notes of the last song that had played, creating a magical ambiance around them.

Noah, feeling a rush of courage, looked into Mio's eyes, which were reflecting the twinkling city lights. He saw a spark in them, mirroring his own feelings. Mio, sensing his intentions, looked back at him, her heart pounding in her chest.

In that moment, time seemed to slow down. Noah gently held Mio's face, his fingers lightly brushing against her skin. Mio closed her eyes, her breath hitching as she felt his touch.

And then, it happened. Noah leaned in, pressing his lips against Mio's in a soft, tender kiss.  Mio responded, her arms wrapping around Noah, pulling him closer.

“S-sorry… was it too much?” he asked trying to laugh off his nervousness. Mio shook her head and kissed him again.

“Never.” She replied with a smile between his lips.

Noah bolted upright in his bed, his head spinning like a top and his stomach churning violently. His initial instinct was to drown the memory that was haunting him with alcohol. His old habits were prodding him so insistently that he swung his legs over the side of the bed, ready to venture out to a 24-hour market to procure some liquor, since he throwed away all the bottles he had at home to avoid falling into temptations. But then, he delivered a hard punch to his own stomach, leaving him gasping for breath.

Eunie was right, pain served as an effective distraction.

He had made a promise to himself and his friends that he would abstain from drinking. He was determined not to resort to alcohol as a means to escape his problems, and his emotions.

So why was he reaching for his jacket, preparing to step outside? Why was he on the verge of breaking the promise he had made to himself and his friends?

***

Lanz had earned a reputation throughout Aionios as one of the finest defenders, if not the absolute best. His relentless training finally paid off when the consul of his colony, Colony 10, took notice and promoted him to the position of vice-commander. While he was undeniably elated, something continued to haunt him, day and night.

Several months ago, during a scavenger mission with his squad, they were ambushed by a small group of Aignian soldiers. Among them was a tiny soldier wielding a sparking hammer as her Blade. He remembered being initially taken aback by the apparent mismatch between her petite frame and the size of her weapon. However, he soon realized that her physical stature belied an extraordinary strength.

For the first time in his life, someone had managed to breach his defense. Their survival was nothing short of a miracle, made possible only by a timely SOS sent by one of his teammates which brought reinforcements. The enemy outnumbered, decided to retreat.

Since that encounter, Lanz had pushed himself harder than ever before in his training, to the point of nearly breaking his bones. He became almost obsessed with that fight, repeatedly watching the recording through his iris. He was captivated by her fluid movements, her strength, and her physique. He found himself admiring an Aignian! As strange as it was, he decided to keep this to himself and use it as motivation to strive for excellence.

On that particular morning, as they were preparing to attack Colony Rho, he used that motivation to perform at his best. And then he saw her. Not too far from where he was engaged in battle, there she was, as magnificent as the last time, effortlessly taking down his comrades as if they were mere bunnits. She belonged to Colony Rho! What a coincidence! Lanz momentarily lost his focus and was nearly hit by an enemy. He quickly regained his composure as soon as he felt the vibration of his shield along his arm and eliminated the enemy in front of him.

"Lanz!" Zeon, his commander, called out to him, "Take care of that one! The one with the hammer. Sparks, she's decimating our troops!"

Lanz didn't need to be told twice. He swiftly cleared his path of enemies and made his way towards her until they were face to face. She returned his gaze, gripping her hammer tightly, and it seemed that she recognized him.

Suddenly, she lunged forward, swinging her hammer with all her might. Lanz swiftly raised his shield, blocking the hammer's crushing blow. The impact sent a shockwave through his arm, but he held firm.

Taking advantage of her momentary imbalance, Lanz retaliated. He fired his gun, the bullet ricocheting off she hammer and grazing her arm. She winced but quickly regained her composure, readying herself for the next attack.

The fight continued, with Lanz skillfully using his shield to deflect her powerful hammer strikes while looking for openings to fire his gun. She, despite her strength and the weight of her hammer, moved with surprising agility, dodging Lanz's bullets and countering with her own attacks.

However, Lanz's experience and strategy began to wear her down. He noticed a pattern in her attacks and decided to use it to his advantage. As she raised her hammer for another strike, Lanz saw his opportunity. He aimed his gun and fired just as Sena swung her hammer.

Caught off guard, she was unable to dodge the bullet. It hit her in the shoulder, causing her to drop her hammer. Seizing the moment, Lanz moved in, his shield knocking she off balance. With a final, decisive shot from his gun, Lanz hit her chest.

While catching his breath back, he knelt down next to her, while red motes started to rise from her body and read the name: Sena.

“Sena, uh?” he thought “I ain’t forget ‘bout you.”

Lanz was jolted awake with a grunt loud enough to rouse his husband from sleep.

"Hmm? What is it!?" Joran mumbled, still groggy from sleep.

Lanz shook his head vigorously, slapping his cheeks a few times in an attempt to fully awaken himself. He had just had a dream... no, a nightmare would be a more accurate term. It was a terrible, haunting vision. What was it about, anyway? Was it possible that...? He quickly dismissed the thought. There was no point in dwelling on it now, after all these years.

"Lanz?" Joran called out to him again, concern lacing his voice.

"Yeah, sorry, sorry," Lanz grunted in response, attempting to slide back under the duvet. "Just... a nightmare."

Joran reached out, placing a comforting hand on his cheek. "Would you like to talk about it?" he asked gently. Lanz considered his offer for a few moments before responding.

"Nah, not really. I've had worse ones. Don't worry, go back to sleep."

With that, he rolled onto his side, turning his back to Joran. Joran let out a sigh, wrapping his arms around Lanz from behind. Sometimes, he wished he could read Lanz's mind. It would make his job so much easier.

***

Of all the scenarios Eunie had envisioned for herself, this was one she had never even considered. Yet, here she was, in the sparking lap on that pompous, unbearable, unlikable, arrogant and presumptuous of her teammate. His hands were clamped roughly over her mouth to stifle any sounds, and her body was pressed tightly against his in an effort to remain hidden.

She replayed the events that had led them to this predicament. They had been on a reconnaissance mission with the other Ouroboros candidates. Despite Taion's protests, their leader had decided to deviate from the chosen path, leading them into the lower reaches of the Maktha woods. This area was known to be inhabited by monsters far beyond their capabilities. When they attempted to climb back up, they inadvertently entered the territory of ranged Flamii, who immediately gave chase.

Fighting was not an option, so they decided to split the group into smaller units. For some inexplicable reason, the insufferable four-eyes had chosen to follow her. As they ran, desperately trying to escape, there came a point when he abruptly pulled her aside and changed their course, dragging her along until they found a small cave that barely had room for one person.

Eunie was on the verge of objecting when she grasped his plan, but he simply flicked his tongue and pulled her onto his lap, bringing their chests together. As she was about to protest against him who dared to drag her, he promptly sealed her lips with his hands, all the while listening intently for any external noises.

And this was how she ended up being on him. Only after they both heard the sound of the beast fading away, Taion slowly released her mouth, even though he wasn't particularly interested in entertaining any protests from her.

In those seemingly endless minutes of forced silence, Eunie seethed with anger towards him. She contemplated how best to exact revenge upon him. Initially considering a swift punch aimed at his balls that would send him rolling back to the City, she quickly dismissed the idea as she knew their leader wouldn't be pleased about such actions.

However, Eunie knew perfectly Taion's vulnerabilities; after all, they knew each other from their first term since they were awoken by the inhabitants of the City simultaneously. She knew exactly how to embarrass him and make every inch of his body flush with embarrassment. Throughout their years together, most of which were spent teasing each other, Eunie had carefully observed and noted which buttons would elicit a response from him when pushed by her mischievous pranks.

She grinned while thinking exactly which words to use and causing Taion's eyebrow to raise in curiosity.

"Seems like y're having the time of your life squeezing me so tightly," she teasingly remarked.

Realizing that his hands were still wrapped around her figure made him blush intensely as he hastily released his grip.

"N-no!" He stuttered nervously as if trying to deny any wrongdoing but before he could say anything further, they suddenly caught sight of the Flamii's wings flapping nearby causing immediate panic.

Reacting instinctively without hesitation or thought, Taion tightened his hold again around her pushing even closer against him as they swiftly found refuge inside a cramped crevice.

Once they felt safe again after hearing the beast depart from their vicinity, Taion broke the silence, "It's safer for us to wait here until the Lost Number can pick us up," he murmured while peering outside their sheltered cave. Opening his Iris device, he sent their coordinates and patiently waited for a response before turning his gaze towards her once more. "I've just transmitted our location to them. It should only be a matter of hours now."

And then, they both became aware of their current position, causing them to blush and stutter in protest and accusation towards each other. They were too afraid to leave their hiding spot, fearing an attack from that high-level monster. Despite their use of harsh words, curses, and accusations, they couldn't deny the physical attraction between them. Their bodies seemed to meld together as they quickened their breaths and timidly explored each other's touches - her side, his shoulder, her wing, his side, her lower back, his cheek. Eventually, Taion placed a hand on the back of Eunie's head and gently guided her towards him until their lips met.

Eunie blushed deeply as she murmured softly, "I hate you..."

He groaned in response with his own flushed face before simply kissing her again, “The feeling is mutual."

Eunie was abruptly roused from her sleep, tumbling out of bed and hitting her head in the process. "Damn it..." she muttered under her breath, gingerly massaging the spot where she had bumped her head. Once the initial sting subsided, she pushed herself up and settled back onto the bed.

The room was still shrouded in the darkness of the night, indicating that it was still quite early. She had only managed to fall asleep a few hours ago, after completing her medical shift. Her gaze drifted to the nightstand, checking to see if she had taken her usual sleep pill. Ever since she started taking them, it had become a rarity for her to dream and even more so to remember those dreams upon waking. Could her fall have triggered the dream? She was certain that she had fallen after the dream, not during it.

But what was the dream about? And why was she dreaming about him at such a time? The only plausible explanation she could think of was her overwhelming sense of loneliness following Ashera's death. Her mind was likely playing tricks on her, conjuring up images and scenarios to fill the void.

Perhaps it was time that she started talking with Joran.

***

Mio adored everything about Noah. She was captivated by his gentle, courageous, and caring nature, as well as his physical appearance. His thick, lustrous black hair was always tied up in a ponytail, complementing his deep blue eyes and slim, athletic body. One particular aspect that Mio cherished was when Noah guided her from behind, with her on all fours. This caused her immense pleasure, causing her fluids to flow down her legs and onto his pelvis. Noah had become well-versed in Mio's preferences and willingly fulfilled her desires, finding joy in doing so.

"M-Noah!" Mio moaned, completely consumed by pleasure. "P-please!"

Mio could sense Noah's smile as he tightened his grip on her sides and increased his pace, filling her to the brim. He knew exactly of how to touch her, hold her, and kiss her. Overwhelmed by the sensations, she couldn't resist climaxing as his rhythm intensified. Noah didn't cease his movements; instead, he continued to thrust into her while gently squeezing her breasts, leading her to experience not just one, but two orgasms. Only when he felt her inner muscles contracting around him once more did he allow himself to release.

Afterward, both of them collapsed side by side on the bed, their bodies spent from the intense pleasure they had shared.

"I hope our neighbours won't be too bothered..." Noah chuckled, a hint of amusement in his voice as he planted a gentle kiss on her cheek. Mio blushed deeply, nestling her head under his chin.

"W-well, if they are, I can't even begin to imagine their reaction in seven months!" she murmured softly, her eyes meeting his.

Noah responded with a warm smile, his hand instinctively moving to rest on her belly. "If that's the case, we'll simply move to a different place." Mio's ears twitched at his words.

"Really?" she asked, her voice filled with surprise.

Noah nodded, pulling her into a comforting embrace and planting a tender kiss on her forehead. "Ever since you told me about the pregnancy, I've been considering it. This apartment is spacious enough, but I think a house with a garden would be even better. Our child would have plenty of space to play. What do you think?" he asked, his gaze never leaving hers.

Mio's eyes sparkled at his suggestion, and she hugged him so tightly that she feared she might suffocate him. "I think that's a fantastic idea!" she exclaimed.

Noah could only respond with a smile, returning her kiss and holding her as if his very life depended on it.

Mio stirred awake just as the first rays of dawn were beginning to peek over the horizon. She immediately sensed that something was amiss. The bed beside her was vacant, and a tingling sensation lingered in her fingers as if they had just been tracing the contours of someone's skin. Where was Noah?!

She cast a bewildered glance around the room, her mind struggling to make sense of the situation. It was then that she realized that the vivid memories of Noah were remnants of a past life they had shared together and he was not physically present with her.

She sat up on the bed, rubbing the sleep from her eyes as the harsh reality set in. The events of the previous night flooded back to her, causing her cheeks to flush a deep shade of red. Had she... had she really been intimate with Taion?! One of her best friends? And why was he not in bed with her now?! Then it hit her: he had mentioned that he would be leaving.

A wave of panic washed over her, leaving her feeling shocked and disoriented. The dream, coupled with the stark loneliness she felt, brought tears to her eyes. She felt so alone, so...

"Mio? What’s wrong?" His voice, tinged with worry, cut through the stillness of the room. She quickly turned towards the source of the sound, her eyes landing on him standing by the window, a book in hand. He had positioned himself there to take advantage of the natural light for reading, careful not to disturb her. It was a simple, considerate act, yet it filled her with a sense of relief.

"Did you have a bad dream?" he asked gently, moving to sit beside her on the bed. She nodded slowly, her gaze dropping to her fingers, which still tingled with the phantom sensation of his touch.

"I wouldn't exactly call it bad..." she murmured, her ears drooping slightly. Taion nodded in understanding, sensing that her dream was likely related to Noah, and chose not to probe further.

"I also had a nightmare," he confessed, his gaze falling to his hands. He could almost feel the warmth of her blood on his skin, and his body shivered at the memory of the haunting vision.

"Was... was Eunie there?" she asked tentatively. He gritted his teeth, a silent confirmation of her fears.

"Yes. Yes, she was there," he admitted.

"Would you like to... talk about it?" Taion shook his head vigorously.

"No. Not at all," his tone was sharp, but then he attempted to soften it. "There's no point in talking about it. It's just nightmares. Something I've always had throughout my life, nothing really new." He paused for a moment before adding, "This one was just... more vivid than the others. That's all."

Mio nodded slowly, understanding what he was going through, and gently reached out to caress his cheek. Taion glanced at her with a sad smile.

"You didn't leave..." she whispered matter-of-factly as she moved closer to him. She was still unclothed from the previous night while he was once again only half-dressed, wearing his underwear. She could swear that he didn't like being undressed for too long.

"I would never have left without at least saying something," he sighed, trying to hide the blush on his cheeks, fully aware of what was about to happen.

Mio chose not to respond, instead opting to swiftly sit on his lap. He didn't object, realizing that there was no point in doing so. He placed his hands on her buttocks, relishing the sensation as he held onto her. The air between them grew warmer, their breath quickening. As he squeezed her flesh, their desire intensified. She reciprocated by cupping his cheeks with her hands before leaning in for a kiss. Chasing that sensation that the dream left in her.

"And what were you going to say, Taion?" she asked, catching her breath. He rolled his eyes playfully before gripping her buttocks and positioning her beneath him.

"I'm still... thinking about it," he murmured, his lips brushing against her cheek as he gently rubbed his lower body against hers. She chuckled and responded with another kiss.

At that moment, words became superfluous.

***

Eunie was there, just as they had planned, waiting for him right at the entrance. Noah felt a wave of relief wash over him at the sight of her. It wasn't that he was surprised to see her there - they had agreed to meet at this spot - but her presence brought him a sense of comfort.

"Oi!" she greeted him, her face lighting up with a warm smile.

"Hi," he responded, "I hope you haven't been waiting long."

"Nope, just got here," she replied, reaching out to adjust his uniform. "Y’ know, the Royal Academy uniform really suits you," she added with a grin, "Professor."

Noah felt his cheeks heat up at her words, a blush spreading across his face. His new title, 'Professor', still felt somewhat foreign to him. It had been several months since he started working as a Professor at the Royal Academy, teaching both music and swordsmanship classes.

The return of Eunie, coupled with the tragic loss of Ashera, had a profound impact on him. It was a period of intense emotional turmoil, but it also served as a catalyst for his change.

Eunie, Lanz, and Joran were his pillars of support during this challenging time. They never left his side, providing him with the strength and encouragement he needed to navigate through his grief and loneliness. Their unwavering support was instrumental in helping him find a new direction in life.

The suggestion to become a professor at the Royal Academy came from the High Aetia. Initially, Noah was filled with doubt and uncertainty. He questioned his ability to teach and inspire young minds. However, he decided to embrace the opportunity, viewing it as a chance to make a positive impact. And because Eunie could be as relentless as an Ardun.

Teaching both music and swordsmanship classes, Noah discovered a passion he never knew he had. He found immense satisfaction in guiding his students, and watching them grow and succeed in their endeavors. This newfound purpose breathed life back into him, filling partially the void that had been left by his past.

His commitment to sobriety was a conscious decision, a promise he made to himself, his friends and also to Mio. It was a difficult journey, fraught with temptation and moments of weakness. But Noah was determined to overcome his dependence on alcohol. He wanted to face his problems head-on, rather than using alcohol as an escape.

Over time, Noah found that teaching provided him with a sense of fulfillment that alcohol never could. His interactions with his students, their enthusiasm and progress, became his new source of joy. It was a stark contrast to the temporary oblivion that alcohol offered. While Noah couldn't claim to be entirely content, he could at least say that his life was no longer steeped in misery.

"Well, if it weren't for you..." he began, but Eunie dismissed his gratitude with a casual wave of her hand.

"Give your thanks to mom. I didn't do much. Just pointed out that we had a valuable warrior among us and it would be a waste not to utilize his talents," she said. Then, changing the subject, she added, "Anyway, wanna have a tea to my place? It’s snuffing cold today and I still have my surgeon clothes on."

"Yes, let's go," he agreed.

As they walked in silence towards Eunie's home, she broke the silence. "Y’ know, I was really proud of ya last night," she said, glancing at him. Noah blushed and sighed simultaneously.

"I'm still sorry for disturbing you," he mumbled in response.

"Disturb? Ha! Disturbing is calling me in the middle of the night to pick ‘u up because y're drunk. Not asking for a cup of tea and sharing a few thoughts," she laughed, playfully poking his arm. Noah rolled his eyes.

"Yes, but still... I shouldn't have come to your place just because of a dream," he protested. Eunie stopped in her tracks, causing him to look at her in confusion.

"Listen, Noah, seeking help is not a sign of weakness. It's a sign that you've recognized you have a problem and you're trying to address it. Better late than never, right?" she said, trying to reassure him.

Noah didn't respond immediately and resumed walking. Eunie caught up with him and added, "Y’ know, my house is always open to ya. It's not like... there are many people waiting for me there." She tried to laugh it off, but her eyes betrayed a hint of sadness. Noah had been trying to support her since Ashera's death, but he found himself at a loss for words to truly comfort her. Eunie didn't seem willing to share her internal struggles, which made it even more challenging for him to help.

Upon arriving at her home, Eunie wasted no time in setting her kettle on the stove. “Imma take a quick shower. The aorta of my last patient burst in my hand. I probably still have some coagulated blood in my hair. Keep an eye on the water for me. I’ll be back in a moment,” she said, disappearing into the bathroom without waiting for his response.

Noah, on the other hand, didn’t need any further explanation. He was as familiar with her home as he was with his own. He set about preparing everything for her tea and his coffee.

As he was putting the finishing touches on their beverages, Eunie reappeared in the kitchen, clad only in her underwear. Noah didn’t seem surprised; this wasn’t the first time Eunie had done this, and they were both comfortable with each other’s bodies. However, it had been years since he had last seen her body, so he took a moment to observe her.

By societal standards, Eunie’s body was stunning. Her physique was toned, her curves generous, and she was one of the few Aetia, along with the Queen herself, to possess first-generation wings on her head, lending her an air of majesty. Yet, her body also bore the marks of her time in the Army. Scars and blemishes were scattered across her body, even a few minor ones on her face, giving her a strong aura but also marring her natural beauty. On her left shoulder, a circular scar marked the spot where a bullet had once found its mark. It was a small, puckered mark. Her back bore the most scars, a crisscross pattern of healed wounds that spoke volumes of the countless battles she had fought. Some were thin and faded, almost blending with her skin, while others were thick and raised. Even her legs weren’t spared. A long, thin scar trailed down her right thigh, probably that one was from the attack of the rebels when they were coming back. Noah wondered how it was possible to her to have all that fight markers, before recalling that she was in the front line with Ashera for some time, before realizing that they needed her more as a doctor than as a soldier.

“Heh, don’t even think about it,” Eunie teased, her grin eliciting a deep blush from him.

“Uh?? No! That wasn’t what I was thinking!” he protested, his words tumbling out in a rush. She laughed at his flustered reaction while she busied herself with preparing the tea, expertly mixing the right dried leaves into a pristine teapot and adding boiling water.

“Ahah, yeah, I know. Otherwise, I would have kicked your balls,” she retorted, her eyes on the kettle as she checked the water.

“I was just… observing,” he tried to explain, his voice trailing off. Eunie turned to look at him, waiting for him to continue. “Why did you decide to join Ashera? Was it because of… our fight?” he asked cautiously. They had never really discussed it, especially since they reunited. Noah was unsure how she would react. Eunie was the first one who didn’t want to talk about her feelings, at least not with him. He had the sensation she was doing it to protect him, perhaps. But now, he felt he was ready to have the conversation.

Eunie didn’t respond immediately. She simply took the cup in which the tea was steeping. She then turned to look at him, and for a moment, neither of them spoke. They just sipped their beverages in silence. Then, she smirked.

“Y’ have sure a big ego, Noah, to think that,” Eunie remarked, her voice laced with amusement. His surprise was evident in his response.

“Well, at least I’m glad I wasn’t the cause,” he retorted, his face contorting into a grimace. “And furthermore…” His words were abruptly cut off by her.

“But y’ were one of the causes,” she interjected, her tone sharp and decisive. Noah nearly choked on his words, coughing as he tried to regain his composure. Eunie didn’t seem surprised by his reaction and patiently waited for him to recover. They locked eyes again, deep blue meeting cerulean/violet. Noah could sense her hesitation, her internal debate about whether to share her thoughts with him.

“I’m ready, Eunie. You can tell me,” He encouraged, letting out a sigh. Eunie took a moment to weigh his words, taking a long sip of her tea before responding.

“I… I just couldn’t bear it any longer,” she confessed in a whisper, her gaze focused on her reflection in the steaming cup of tea.

“Couldn’t bear what exactly?” Noah asked, his tone cautious yet filled with concern.

“Everything, Noah,” she replied slowly, her voice barely above a whisper. “I couldn’t bear the fact that Aionios was not going to be a thing anymore, but just a snuffing memory. That we couldn’t see them anymore. The fact that I felt so empty, so uncomplete that I had the feeling that every time I look myself in the mirror I can only see half of me.”

She paused, taking a deep breath before continuing. “And then there were the expectations that came with being a Princess, expectations I never asked for. I still dunno why Melia chose me, a random orphan from Alcamoth. What was I supposed to do? Shit, I didn’t even know how to help you, how could I help, lead an entire nation?! Geez, who the fuck wants to become a Queen, then? It’s bureaucratic meetings from the morning till the end!!”

Her voice grew softer, more introspective. “And then there was you, Noah. Watching ya waste your life, throw it all away… it was too much for me. And do y’ know why? Because that could have just been me. You have no idea how many times I’ve been tempted to inject myself with enough morphine to lose my mind or slip into a coma. Losing him and then losing ya was just too much. Ashera offered me a way out, in her own unique way.” She smiled sadly, taking another sip of her tea before setting the empty mug in the sink.

“The truth is,” she continued, her voice barely audible, “every time I survived an attack, every time a new scar marked my body, I felt… relieved. I felt alive.” Noah could see a single tear glistening at the corner of her eye. “If I could ruin my body, then seeing only half of it in the mirror should bring me some relief, right? It’s a foolish thought, I know. But fighting… it brought me back to Aionios. Of course, I don’t miss the killing or the constant threat of death, but it was my way of trying to reconnect with the past. With…” She seemed to want to add something, but bit her lip nervously instead.

“With Taion…” Noah whispered cautiously, watching her reaction. Her wings fluttered at the mention of the name, and the tear finally slid down her cheek. She tried to smile.

“Funny, I haven’t heard his name in so long… ah, shit, it doesn’t really matter now, innit?”

Without uttering a word, Noah rose to his feet, moved closer to her, and pulled her into a comforting embrace.

"I'm sorry, Eunie," Noah whispered, his voice heavy with regret as he tightened his embrace. "I was a terrible friend. I was so wrapped up in my own world, so focused on Mio, that I completely overlooked your feelings. I have no excuses for my behavior..."

Eunie shook her head gently, dismissing his self-reproach. "I wasn't exactly the best support either. I should have found a better way to help ya, instead of constantly yelling at ‘u," she admitted, taking comfort in his presence.

They remained locked in their embrace, the silence enveloping them like a comforting blanket, until Eunie finally broke the stillness. "I'm proud of you, Noah," she whispered softly. "Y're fighting back, rising from the ashes like the warrior we all knew ya to be. I'm certain Mio would say the same." Noah could only respond by tightening his embrace, clinging to the reassurance that she would be happy to see him living again, not merely surviving.

"Thanks to you and the others... you never left my side. But I was too blind to see it. They say that with time comes wisdom," he attempted to joke, but his words were strained, his stomach twisting in knots.

"Nah, you're still a young, reckless teenager, you muppet" Eunie playfully countered.

Noah pulled away from the embrace, a hint of sadness in his sigh. "You think so?" he asked, pointing to the side of his head, just above his ears. "What do you see?"

Eunie leaned in for a closer look and noticed for the first time a few strands of white hair. "Oh," she whispered, taken aback. Due to her breed, Eunie often forgot about the relentless march of time and the inevitable aging it brought. Noah was now forty-two if she wasn't mistaken. He was a Homs, she realized, as probably, Taion. The thought struck her as odd; she had always seen him as a brother, a constant figure who, like her and Lanz, seemed immune to the passage of time.

Noah clenched his fists and looked away from her. "You know, I've come to terms with the fact..." he hissed, "...the fact that I'll probably die before I see her again."

"Noah..." Eunie started, taking a step towards him to offer another embrace, but he stepped back to avoid it.

"But I can't help feeling jealous," he confessed, his breath hitching as his mind swirled with emotions. "I'm damn jealous of you, of Lanz... you have all the time in the world to... wait."

It was Eunie's turn to tense up and look away. "All the time in the world, huh..." she echoed his words, then turned to face him. "Tell me, Noah. Which is better - a short life surrounded by friends and loved ones, or an eternity spent watching all your beloved ones die, unable to do anything ‘bout it?”

Noah found himself at a loss for words, unable to answer her question.

***

"Taion?" Mio softly called out to him, tilting her head up to meet his gaze.

"Hmm?" he mumbled, opening his eyes. He had been on the verge of falling asleep, with Mio nestled between his legs and his head resting on top of hers. He had discovered that she enjoyed being held from behind, and he was more than happy to oblige. Having sex with her had been both emotionally and physically draining.

"Can I ask you something?"

The fact that she was asking meant that it was likely something painful or unpleasant. He raised his head fully, looking at her with confusion. Was she having doubts about what they had done? It seemed a bit late for that...

"What is it?" he asked, tensing up.

"Last night, when... um... well, when we were... you know..." A blush crept up on her face, causing Taion to blush as well and let out a slight chuckle. He found it endearing. They just didit again that morning, twice to be precise, and they were still completely naked from their last one. He didn't say anything, waiting for her to finish.

“You mentioned that you also experience a blending of reality and memories,” she finally clarified, her gaze meeting his. Taion shook his head in response.

“Mixing reality and fantasies. Yes, I remember that,” he corrected, his mind racing to understand her point. Mio mumbled something under her breath, her hands instinctively moving to her chest.

“But how can you be sure that they are fantasies and not actual memories?” she finally asked, her question catching him off guard.

“What do you mean? Me and her, we never…” he began, his stomach knotting with unease. Why was she bringing up that topic? “It’s just a… fantasy. Probably just my foolish yearning to… be with her…”

“Perhaps in your last life,” she interjected, “It’s true that my life and Noah’s were intertwined throughout our many lives in Aionios. But do you realize how long Z trapped everyone in the endless now? Do you know how many times we died and were reborn? Can you confidently say that you remember all those lives?” Her tone grew increasingly intense with each word, leaving Taion at a loss for words.

He had pondered over it, indeed. Many times, in fact, in an attempt to understand his feelings, why he felt such a profound sense of loss for just a friend. But all he had were glimpses, fragments of some of his past lives, battles, and interactions with people whose faces he couldn’t distinguish. The conclusion he arrived at was that it was indeed possible that they had met, perhaps on the battlefield as mere soldiers, striving only to survive and defeat the other. Just like the nightmare he had the previous night.

“Even if we had crossed paths,” he hissed, biting his lips in frustration, “I was an Aignian and she was a Kevesi. What do you think our interactions would have been like?” He couldn’t understand why she was bringing up this topic.

“That doesn’t change anything!” she shot back, turning to face him squarely. He opened his mouth to respond, but she cut him off. “Do you think that he and I only encountered each other in the City? No! We fought numerous times! Our relationship began more as adversaries than as lovers! I can’t deny that we were fortunate, often being freed by the flame clock or reborn with the Lost Number, but I vividly remember each time our Blades clashed!”

“And what does that prove?” he retorted, struggling to keep his composure as his anger flared. He couldn’t comprehend why she was bringing up this argument now. Was this some twisted way of dealing with guilt? “Let’s assume that I did encounter her in some of my past lives. I’m certain we were never more than… enemies! So why are you bringing this up?!” As he spoke, he could feel the warmth of her blood on his hand. He could still feel the tremors of her last breaths in his lap, her body shivering, and his own body barely holding up due to the injuries.

“How can you be so sure?!” she challenged, her tone resolute.

“Because I need to believe it!” he retorted with a hiss, “I need to believe it for my own sanity! All my life, I’ve been trying to move forward, but I seem to be stuck in a rut! It feels like I’m constantly making the wrong decisions, and I can’t seem to stop myself!”

Mio had anticipated a reaction like this, so she wasn’t taken aback. She simply sighed and shook her head, a gesture of understanding rather than disappointment.

“I’m sorry… I understand that it was a decision we both made. I’m not pointing fingers at you, I’m blaming myself,” he whispered, his gaze dropping to the floor. Mio reached out and gently took his hands in hers, a comforting gesture.

“What I’m trying to tell you, Taion, is this: don’t give up hope. There might still be a chance for you and Eunie,” she said, a sad smile playing on her lips. She reached up and placed a hand on his cheek, “Perhaps what we did was indeed a mistake, but I can see how deeply you care for her. And believe me when I say that if you two were merely enemies, you wouldn’t be in such state.”

Taion didn’t know how to respond. He simply sat there, watching as she got up and left him alone with his thoughts.

***

Nikol found himself lost in thought, his eyes fixated on his father’s project that lay before him in the dimly lit lab. The sight of the original blueprint of the Origin was captivating, and the thrill of discovering it was even more exhilarating. For reasons unknown, his father had always been reluctant to reveal these plans to him. Nikol had often wondered why and had even confronted his father about it, but the response was always the same.

“Working on the Origin is dangerous, Nikol. We already made a mistake once. There’s no point in pursuing it now, given how the worlds are drifting apart.”

Yet, here he was. Shulk had finally entrusted him with the key to his old lab, granting him unrestricted access to all his projects. Perhaps Shulk had hoped that the passage of time would have diminished Nikol’s interest in the Origin. Or maybe he believed that it was finally safe for Nikol to explore it, considering the worlds were too distant for the Origin to function anyway.

Ever since he awoke in Bionis, Nikol, like everyone else, remembered his previous life in Aionios. He remembered their journey to the Origin and the story behind it. Since then, he had harbored a dream of working on the Origin. He couldn’t pinpoint why, but the complexity of the project was so enticing that any engineer would be drawn to it. Now, in the semi-darkness of the lab, he could touch and read the blueprints all by himself! It was a dream come true!

His heart nearly skipped a beat when the lab lights suddenly flickered on.

“Seriously, Nikol?” his father’s voice echoed in the room, causing him to jump in surprise.

“D-dad!” he stammered, trying to regain his composure. “What are you doing here? Weren’t you supposed to be helping mom in the garden?”

Shulk laughed and slowly approached him. At fifty-five, Shulk’s once blonde hair had turned completely white, and the first signs of aging were visible on his face. Yet, he still possessed the same charm as his mother.

“I should have known that this would be the first thing you’d look at,” he chuckled, ignoring Nikol’s question while picking up one of the Origin’s initial drafts. “When I gave you the key, I was hoping you had put this fantasy behind you. Seems like I was more naive than I thought.”

Nikol sighed nervously and picked up another draft.

“Sorry, Dad… it’s just too fascinating,” he confessed. “It’s such a complex and interesting project, and there’s nothing like it in Bionis, right now. It’s just… a waste.”

Shulk laughed and ruffled Nikol’s hair. Despite Nikol being thirty-five, Shulk still saw him as the curious teenager he once was.

“You’re truly my son, aren’t you,” he sighed. “Now that you’ve finally laid your eyes on it, what’s your plan?”

Nikol stared at the papers in front of him, remaining silent for several minutes. Then, he broke the silence.

“Why… why don’t we use it to reconnect the worlds?”

***

Taion was certain he was dreaming. The telltale signs were all there: the blurred background, the indistinct figures passing by, the muffled sounds that filled the air. He looked around, trying to bring the dream world into focus, but it was as elusive as his vision without glasses. He mumbled something under his breath and began to wander aimlessly. Something felt off. He was aware of his own existence, a sensation that didn’t usually accompany his dreams.

As he continued to explore, the dream world gradually came into focus. He found himself in a place that bore a striking resemblance to the City, yet it was different. The layout of the streets, the open shops, the people milling about - everything was slightly off. Even though he couldn’t make out their faces, he noticed the diversity of the crowd. There were people with wings on their heads, people with ears like Mio’s, people with intricate ether patterns on their skin like Sena, and others with grey skin like Lanz! He didn’t recall seeing such a variety of people in the City. Everything felt strangely familiar, yet he couldn’t remember where he had seen it before. Perhaps in a book about the City?

He continued to navigate through the cacophony of sounds until a distinct voice cut through the noise.

“I still need to… do another test, 'lright? Don’t freak out, innit?”

He froze in his tracks, instantly turning towards the source of the voice. Then it came again:

“Oi! Wot that face?! Geez! I told ya not to freak out!! I’m still not… oof!”

There was no mistaking it - it was her voice! He found himself running towards the sound, ignoring the pain that accompanied each step. Even if it was just a dream, seeing her would be enough. He hoped he would remember this dream when he woke up, as most dreams and nightmares tended to fade away with the morning light. After pushing past several shadowy figures, he finally saw what he had been searching for. In what appeared to be a park, near a fountain, stood Eunie and another figure. He moved closer, struggling to understand what was happening and who the person was that was holding her. Taion felt a surge of anger: how dare his mind play such tricks on him? But before he could react further, his jaw dropped and his heart skipped several beats.

“I swear, Eunie, if this is another one of your jokes, I’m… I’m…” the words trailed off as the individual choked back tears. Eunie responded with a warm smile, pulling him into a comforting embrace and planting a soft kiss on his cheek.

“Wot four-eyes? Gonna kick the bum of your probably pregnant girlfriend?” she teased, playfully ruffling his hair. At this, the guy finally lifted his head to meet her gaze. Her expression softened as she gently wiped away the tears pooling beneath his glasses with her hands. Taion was taken aback: it was him, undoubtedly! His assemblance was the same as his last term in Aionios, but his clothes were different: he was wearing something similar to the military uniform of the Lost Number and his glasses had a grey frame instead of a black one.

“You know that’s not what I meant…” he protested weakly, allowing her to comfort him.

“I know, love,” she sighed, a hint of amusement in her voice. “It’s just, I dunno how it happened. We were careful, and we didn’t plan for this. We only have two terms left…” Her voice faltered, a note of sadness creeping in. But he shook his head, pulling her closer into his embrace.

“Perhaps the pills you were taking weren’t suitable for people like us. And I have to be honest with you… I’m terrified, but also… sparks! I’m happy. We’re not the first ones to go through this. Remember Matthew and Na’el’s great-grandparents? They were also cradle-born like us. They managed, and so will we! If… if that’s what you want, of course. But sparks… a baby! Our baby! Sparks!!”

“Heh! Look at you, all excited!” she grinned, resting her head under his chin. “This is why you’re my reliable guy.”

The real Taion was rooted to the spot, paralyzed by the dream that was rapidly morphing into a nightmare. He yearned to wake up, to expel the churning contents of his stomach, and to vanish entirely. The intensity of the situation was overwhelming. Yet, the dream continued unabated. People were passing by him, the light was shifting with the sun’s position, and he stood there, frozen, watching them engage in intimate conversations, share kisses, and cuddle just a few meters away. He felt like an outsider, unable to bridge the distance.

How can you be sure that are fantasies and not actual memories?

Taion swallowed hard, on the verge of leaving, unable to bear the sight any longer and the implications it held. Just then, the sounds around him escalated into a chaotic cacophony, and the ground beneath him started to shake. The figures around him seemed to lose their sanity, running around in a frenzy. He too began to scan his surroundings, trying to make sense of the situation. The sounds were becoming more distinct now. He could discern the screams of terror, and wait… were those explosions? He looked around and saw explosions erupting all around him. To his astonishment, he recognized the violet beasts of Origin invading the City.

Instinctively, he tried to summon his Blade and called for Isurd and Nimue, as he would have done in Alrest, but nothing happened. Of course, he thought, remembering he was in a dream. All he could do was follow them, drawn by a force he couldn’t resist.

“Wot the spark is happening?” Eunie yelled, her voice echoing in the chaos. Taion, his Iris activated, was receiving messages from an unknown source.

“The Moebius are attacking on the city. We’ve been called to defend it,” he responded tersely, gripping her hand and attempting to pull her along. Eunie resisted, planting her feet firmly on the ground.

“What are you doing? We need to get out of the city, Eunie! I’ll take you to a safe place and then come back to help!” he shouted, trying to persuade her to move.

“Imma not leave ya here alone to fight! Don’t ya dare to think about it! We need to defend this damn city! Snuff it, muppet!!” she retorted, summoning her blade with a determined look in her eyes.

“You can’t fight in… your current state!” he protested angrily, “Now, let’s go!”

“I’m not even sure if I’m pregnant, and even if I am, I’m perfectly capable of fighting! I’m pregnant, not incapacitated! And I’m a damn good soldier! Now, move your arse, four-eyes!” she shot back, sprinting towards the heart of the City. “If y wanna a place that your son can call home, then we need to fight!” Taion had no choice but to follow her, and the real Taion mirrored his actions in the dream.

From that point on, the dream became a whirlwind of confusion, and he struggled to keep up with them. They arrived at what appeared to be the main square, and from a distance, Taion could make out the figure of N engaged in combat with someone who bore a striking resemblance to Mio. However, he was too far away to understand the full extent of the situation, and his dream seemed to steer his focus towards Eunie and himself, rather than N.

As soon as they reached the square, they were immediately surrounded by the Flak. However, Taion and Eunie were seasoned soldiers, and they sprang into action, their movements perfectly synchronized, their attacks coordinated as if they had been training together for years.

Eunie was a truly formidable fighter even in that dream, holding her double guns with a steady grip. Each shot she fired was precise, the energy bolts searing through the air to strike the Flak. Her eyes were focused, her movements fluid as she weaved through the battlefield, her guns leaving trails of light in its wake.

Taion, on the other hand, was a whirlwind of motion. His twin swords were like silver streaks, cutting through the air and the Flak with equal ease. Each slash was followed by another, his blades moving in a deadly dance of destruction. He was fighting for her, for their future and this could be seen in his motion.

Despite their valiant efforts, the Flak were relentless. Their numbers seemed to multiply, and their violet forms a terrifying wave of advancing doom. Eunie and Taion fought fiercely, their backs against each other as they faced the encroaching horde.

And then, the real Taion could see it, as the time slowed down: in the midst of the chaos, a single Flak managed to break through their defenses. With a swift, lethal strike, it hit Eunie. The impact was devastating, and Eunie fell, her strength leaving her in a rush. The battlefield, once filled with the sounds of battle, fell eerily silent as Eunie’s form hit the ground.

“EUNIE!” Both versions of Taion cried out in unison. The Taion in the dream immediately attacked the Flak in front of him, attempting to fend off the remaining ones. But the real Taion could see the desperation in his dream self’s eyes. His movements became erratic, and he started making one mistake after another until one of the Flak managed to strike him in the stomach. Its sharp leg pierced his skin as if it were nothing, and the real Taion could see the tip of the leg protruding through his body. Despite this, he didn’t let go of his swords and managed to slice the Flak in half. Blood began to soak his clothes, staining the ground beneath him.

The real Taion understood that his dream self had come to the grim realization that they were outnumbered and severely injured. They couldn’t win this fight.

“Run… please run! Take her and run!” he thought desperately, watching the unfolding scene.

The Taion in the dream seemed to be on the same wavelength. Summoning the last of his strength, he quickly scooped up Eunie’s limp body from the ground and started to run, leaving his Blade behind. The remaining Flak began to pursue them, but as they fled down a street, another group of soldiers stepped in. Taion didn’t dare to look back or say anything to them. He had more pressing matters to attend to. He was at the brink of his strength, having lost too much blood, and his mind was starting to feel fuzzy. He looked around desperately and spotted an open door to an empty apartment. He pushed himself inside, kicking the door shut behind him, and gently laid Eunie on the ground.

Taion slid down the wall next to her, leaving a trail of blood behind him. He gently cradled her head in his lap and began to stroke her hair.

“I’m… I’m sorry…” he sobbed, looking down at her, “I couldn’t protect… you.”

“Shh…” she managed to whisper back, her voice barely audible. She reached up, her hand trembling as she gently caressed his face. “Next time… no more attackers, ‘kay? Only healers…”

Taion tried to muster a smile for her, not wanting her last memories of him to be marred by tears. But then, from the oppressive darkness and silence of the room, punctuated only by their labored breathing, a few yellowish motes began to rise from Eunie’s lower abdomen.

The silence in the room grew heavier, and the real Taion found himself stepping back, his breath hitching in his throat. He heard a sound next to him but didn’t dare to look away, too engrossed in the unfolding scene.

“Y’ would have been an incredible father, Taion…” Eunie murmured sadly, tears streaming down her face as she watched the motes disappear into the air. “I’m sorry… I failed you…”

Both versions of Taion could only cry, and with a sense of horror, the real Taion watched as she closed her eyes and the first red motes began to rise.

“No! No, you didn't! You could never fail me! I love you, Eunie,” he sobbed, clutching her hand and looking at her with desperation in his eyes. “I swear, I’ll find you again.”

“Heh, I’ll remember that…” she murmured, her voice barely a whisper. “Love you too, fourth-best bud…”

All Taion could do was hold her hand and cuddle her, trying to reassure her that he was there. But then, a few minutes after her death, red motes also began to rise from him.

The real Taion could only watch as his dream self slowly slid down the wall next to her, the room filling with red motes. Then, suddenly, an explosion obliterated everything, and all around him turned white. The City was gone, they were gone: there was only him and a… sobbing sound? Was it him?

“Wot the hell was that?”

Taion immediately turned to look next to him. Eunie was there, her eyes wide, her cheeks wet with tears, and her hands over her mouth as if trying to stifle any sound. Instinctively, Taion moved towards her and held her so tightly that it left her breathless. They could only stay there, crying and hoping that they would wake up soon.

That was, without a doubt, the worst nightmare of his life.

***

Nia found herself jolted awake in the dead of night, nestled between her wives and husband. Sensing her distress, Dromarch was instantly alert.

“Is something amiss, my Lady?” he inquired, his voice laced with concern.

For a moment, Nia didn’t respond. She placed a hand on her core crystal, puzzled by its unusual pulsation. Her internal ether flow seemed agitated, a phenomenon she couldn’t quite comprehend until a thought dawned on her.

“Could it be… possible?” she murmured, more to herself than to Dromarch.

“What is it, my Lady?” Dromarch’s worry was palpable now, his muzzle drawing closer to her.

“We need to head to the underground, Dromarch. Now!” she urged, sliding out from the bed and gently removing Mythra’s arm from her belly. Mythra stirred in protest but soon settled back into a peaceful slumber, snuggling up to Pyra. Nia breathed a sigh of relief: she didn’t have time to listen to her complains to have interrupted her beauty sleep.

“Understood. Would you like me to carry you?” Dromarch offered, turning his back to her.

“Just like the good ol’ times!” she replied with a playful smirk, positioning herself on his sturdy back.

They swiftly exited the bedroom and began their descent, with Nia cursing the enormity of the castle. How could it possibly be so vast?

Upon reaching their destination, even before entering the room, she could see a light emanating from within.

“What is it, my Lady?” Dromarch asked, his voice tinged with curiosity. Without responding, Nia pushed open the door.

The ancient, dust-covered Ouroboros Stones that she had discovered upon waking up in Alrest were glowing with a green light. She had never been able to explain why the Ouroboros Stone, which belonged to Aionios, was in her world. When she had tried to activate it, it had remained unresponsive. She had considered discarding it, but Rex had suggested keeping it in the basement ‘just in case’.

Still in awe, she approached and examined it. The six small gems that adorned and composed the main stone were glowing and pulsating in pairs, albeit not in sync. Two of them shone brighter when she entered, but their glow diminished as another pair began to shine just as intensely, and so on.

She observed them, trying to discern a pattern, but their behavior seemed random. She also noticed that the stones around the main one were slightly different than she remembered. In the past, all the stones had looked the same, but now the six stones appeared to be different colors: red, white, orange, green, blue, and grey.

“Dromarch, I need to contact someone from the space institute. Now!” she exclaimed as a thought began to crystallize in her mind.

“But, my Lady! It’s… four in the morning. I highly doubt anyone would be available at this hour,” he sighed.

“Oh! Right…”