Ephraim, Scribe of Heaven

Until Ephraim saw them.

Ephraim froze, unable to keep themself from staring. Was that….?

( @heavenly-scribe )

In the crowd, a seraph all in draping cloth was buying art supplies. In one of their hands held a satchel already stuffed to the brim with paintbrushes and tools all wrapped up to protect it from becoming damaged. Currently, they were haggling the price of some clay that was about 15 gold per pound.

But when Solstice turned to leave in a huff, they paused when they saw Ephraim staring at them. Slowly, their tail swished back and forth as they stared back.

“Ephraim..?”

Solstice mumbled out, moving toward the other seraph. They were concerned about Ephraim, they haven’t seen the other in years… they looked so sickly, so starved.

Solstice softened their eyes as they gently brushed their hand against the other’s.

“I- yes, I am alright.”

But oh how they wished that Ephraim would hang out with them, if only if it was a short time.

“I see, well, if you wish… you’re more than welcome to join me in my studio. If you want to of course.”

The Seraph mumbled out, their tail becoming still as they spoke. They kept their hands gently folded in front of them, before turning their attention to the stuffed satchel in one of their hands.

“I… I should go back to my studio, I’m sorry if I inconvenienced you with idle chatter.”

They sighed quietly, already dreading having to finish that art piece of the Council. To present it to that crooked group of angels.

“Wait, I- yes. I would love to join you.”

A barrage of thoughts started swirling through their mind, berating them for responding this way, for opening themself up once again. They swore years ago that they would not burden anyone anymore, they would focus only on their work and nothing else.But Solstice’s offer was too good to resist…they couldn’t help themself. Ephraim missed them too much.

Solstice looked over to Ephraim with a surprised look behind the cloth that covered their face. They cleared their throat.

“I’m glad you want to join Ephraim, I missed your presence.”

The seraphim’s face melted into a clandestine smile as they held out a hand towards the other. They were happy that the scribe wanted to join them in their studio.

Though, a small thought entered into the artisan’s mind..

They were probably distracting the other from doing their job, being a scribe to the Council. And considering the amount of scrolls and reports Ephraim had, it was a big order.

Though the artisan noticed how much the other trembled.

Were… were they doing something wrong?

“… Do tell me if you’re uncomfortable Ephie, I don’t wish to force you into anything.”

Solstice spoke with a concerned tone, taking care to not pull Ephraim along. Especially when ascending the steps to their studio.

It was connected to other buildings, but it stood away far enough for Solstice to be comfortable. It was a sizeable building compared to the others, with large swathes of stained glass admist the large windows of the studio. The door a large piece of hand-painted willow wood that was locked at all times, for safety.

Luckily, it wasn’t that long of a walk from the plaza to their studio.

“N-Not at all! I promise.”

They continued to follow behind Solstice, looking up at the studio as they got closer. They had no idea how long it had been since they last visited….decades, maybe even more. It all felt the same to them.

It felt.. right.

“I believe you Ephraim, don’t worry over it.”

The artisan chuckled, gently pulling away to unlock the hand-painted willow wood and opened it for Ephraim.

“I apologise if it’s a bit… cluttered, I’ve been accustomed to crashing here than my quarters.”

They explained, walking in after the other to close and lock the door. It wasn’t that cluttered, just stray clumps of crumpled paper and tufts of feathers littered the studio. It smelled faintly of smoke from a fire but it was overwhelmed by the smell of dust and Solstice themselves.

"It is alright, my quarters are not much better..."

“I suppose I’ll have to see that for myself.”

The artisan joked, a soft chuckle coming from them. They slowly walked towards the unfinished oil painting of the council, refreshing the oil paints on the table and sitting on the bench.

“The council has already been pestering me to finish this portrait. It’s been overdue due to….. personal concerns.”

They walked over to another nearby bench, sitting down and watching Solstice as they began to work on the portrait. Ephraim nodded, letting out a small sigh.

“The Council has somehow gotten even more demanding as of late….I cannot blame you.”

Solstice asked, rolling their eyes from behind their veiled head. They continued to paint and while it seemed like they weren’t paying attention, they were.

“I suppose so, but can you trust me that you’ll tell me if it gets overwhelming? However small that may be?”

The artisan mumbled out, their face behind their veil a look of concern once more. They figited the paintbrush in their hand, wanting the scribe to atleast be honest about their work with the other.

How hypocritical of Solstice.

“..alright. I will.”

The lie came out too easily. They couldn’t tell Solstice about their troubles, they couldn’t tell anyone. They had to stay silent and do their job. That’s it. They had to be worth something.

“….. I… I don’t know Ephie. I really don’t.”

The artisan shuddered before clearing their throat and continued to work on the painting of the council.

Of those crooked angels.

But they didn’t want Ephraim to get involved.

“But I shouldn’t dwell on it, it’s… it’s n-nothing, really.”

“If something is on your mind, you can speak to me of it. I promise.”

But the artisan didn’t seem to care in that moment.

“… It’s..”

They began, their voice growing a tad softer.

“It’s about the council… Ephraim. To say it is to bring you into the situation.”

The seraph glanced away, only now seeing the paint streak across one of the councillor’s face. Those bastards.

“The Council is not fond of me as it is…I do not think anything could make that worse. And if something is troubling you, speaking of it may help you feel better. Let some weight off your shoulders.”

And they wept.

CW// MENTION OF SA UNDER CUT

They hugged Solstice tightly, letting them cry into their shoulder. They couldn't begin to explain how they felt. A deep sense of sorrow started eating away at them while a billowing rage erupted from their core. Their body began to tremble, eyes still wide with shock as they gripped onto Solstice tight, as if they were afraid to let go.

"I- I'm so-"

Ephraim couldn't even manage to properly apologize, the words getting caught in their throat. A spiral of thoughts started occupying their mind. The thought that the Council had hurt Solstice like this and Ephraim wasn't able to protect them.

Unaware of the rage that the other was feeling.

All they felt was the gnawing sensation of guilt, guilt for ever being putting themselves in this situation.

“I-I’m so sorry. I’m so sorry, I should’ve been there for you, I-“

Sorry?

“……..Ephie….”

The artisan mumbled out, their hands holding onto the other. They didn’t want to let go.

They just wanted to go to sleep.

“………………. Can… you c-come…… with me t-to….deliver.. t-this?”

The Seraph’s voice shook as they spoke.

As much as they didn’t want to finish that damn painting, they needed to get the Council off of their back.

To do that, they needed to finish that painting.

“Of course, y-yeah.”

Their voice was still a bit shaky as well, though better than before. They wanted to support Solstice however they could, to make up for all the years of isolation and pain that they had caused. They needed to right their wrongs….but was that even possible?

“…………….. T-thank you E-Ephie…. Thank you..”

The artisan sniffled out, their body leaning more into the other.

They didn’t let go, afraid that they would lose the only other person who cared and get drowned in a sea of their own pain and suffering.

“The quicker you finish it, the less you have to think about it, y-yeah?”

They hummed, letting go of Solstice and leaning back, but taking their hand into their own.

“I’m not going anywhere. Not this time.”

They were just happy they weren’t alone anymore.

“I suppose so..”

The artisan hummed out, moving to gently nuzzle more into the scribe before pulling away to face the unfinished painting. Slowly, they reached to pick up the brush and began to work again.

“Would you like to.. cuddle, after I finish this painting and deliver it? You don’t have to of course, there’s no pressure…. I won’t force you.”

The Seraph suggested, wanting to keep Ephraim close. They weren’t sure why, but in a way, they felt calm and relaxed around the other. It’s as though their fear melts away.

Their light in the suffocating darkness.

"I- yes! I mean- I- I would love that."

Until Ephraim saw them.

Ephraim froze, unable to keep themself from staring. Was that….?

( @heavenly-scribe )

In the crowd, a seraph all in draping cloth was buying art supplies. In one of their hands held a satchel already stuffed to the brim with paintbrushes and tools all wrapped up to protect it from becoming damaged. Currently, they were haggling the price of some clay that was about 15 gold per pound.

But when Solstice turned to leave in a huff, they paused when they saw Ephraim staring at them. Slowly, their tail swished back and forth as they stared back.

“Ephraim..?”

Solstice mumbled out, moving toward the other seraph. They were concerned about Ephraim, they haven’t seen the other in years… they looked so sickly, so starved.

Solstice softened their eyes as they gently brushed their hand against the other’s.

“I- yes, I am alright.”

But oh how they wished that Ephraim would hang out with them, if only if it was a short time.

“I see, well, if you wish… you’re more than welcome to join me in my studio. If you want to of course.”

The Seraph mumbled out, their tail becoming still as they spoke. They kept their hands gently folded in front of them, before turning their attention to the stuffed satchel in one of their hands.

“I… I should go back to my studio, I’m sorry if I inconvenienced you with idle chatter.”

They sighed quietly, already dreading having to finish that art piece of the Council. To present it to that crooked group of angels.

“Wait, I- yes. I would love to join you.”

A barrage of thoughts started swirling through their mind, berating them for responding this way, for opening themself up once again. They swore years ago that they would not burden anyone anymore, they would focus only on their work and nothing else.But Solstice’s offer was too good to resist…they couldn’t help themself. Ephraim missed them too much.

Solstice looked over to Ephraim with a surprised look behind the cloth that covered their face. They cleared their throat.

“I’m glad you want to join Ephraim, I missed your presence.”

The seraphim’s face melted into a clandestine smile as they held out a hand towards the other. They were happy that the scribe wanted to join them in their studio.

Though, a small thought entered into the artisan’s mind..

They were probably distracting the other from doing their job, being a scribe to the Council. And considering the amount of scrolls and reports Ephraim had, it was a big order.

Though the artisan noticed how much the other trembled.

Were… were they doing something wrong?

“… Do tell me if you’re uncomfortable Ephie, I don’t wish to force you into anything.”

Solstice spoke with a concerned tone, taking care to not pull Ephraim along. Especially when ascending the steps to their studio.

It was connected to other buildings, but it stood away far enough for Solstice to be comfortable. It was a sizeable building compared to the others, with large swathes of stained glass admist the large windows of the studio. The door a large piece of hand-painted willow wood that was locked at all times, for safety.

Luckily, it wasn’t that long of a walk from the plaza to their studio.

“N-Not at all! I promise.”

They continued to follow behind Solstice, looking up at the studio as they got closer. They had no idea how long it had been since they last visited….decades, maybe even more. It all felt the same to them.

It felt.. right.

“I believe you Ephraim, don’t worry over it.”

The artisan chuckled, gently pulling away to unlock the hand-painted willow wood and opened it for Ephraim.

“I apologise if it’s a bit… cluttered, I’ve been accustomed to crashing here than my quarters.”

They explained, walking in after the other to close and lock the door. It wasn’t that cluttered, just stray clumps of crumpled paper and tufts of feathers littered the studio. It smelled faintly of smoke from a fire but it was overwhelmed by the smell of dust and Solstice themselves.

"It is alright, my quarters are not much better..."

“I suppose I’ll have to see that for myself.”

The artisan joked, a soft chuckle coming from them. They slowly walked towards the unfinished oil painting of the council, refreshing the oil paints on the table and sitting on the bench.

“The council has already been pestering me to finish this portrait. It’s been overdue due to….. personal concerns.”

They walked over to another nearby bench, sitting down and watching Solstice as they began to work on the portrait. Ephraim nodded, letting out a small sigh.

“The Council has somehow gotten even more demanding as of late….I cannot blame you.”

Solstice asked, rolling their eyes from behind their veiled head. They continued to paint and while it seemed like they weren’t paying attention, they were.

“I suppose so, but can you trust me that you’ll tell me if it gets overwhelming? However small that may be?”

The artisan mumbled out, their face behind their veil a look of concern once more. They figited the paintbrush in their hand, wanting the scribe to atleast be honest about their work with the other.

How hypocritical of Solstice.

“..alright. I will.”

The lie came out too easily. They couldn’t tell Solstice about their troubles, they couldn’t tell anyone. They had to stay silent and do their job. That’s it. They had to be worth something.

“….. I… I don’t know Ephie. I really don’t.”

The artisan shuddered before clearing their throat and continued to work on the painting of the council.

Of those crooked angels.

But they didn’t want Ephraim to get involved.

“But I shouldn’t dwell on it, it’s… it’s n-nothing, really.”

“If something is on your mind, you can speak to me of it. I promise.”

But the artisan didn’t seem to care in that moment.

“… It’s..”

They began, their voice growing a tad softer.

“It’s about the council… Ephraim. To say it is to bring you into the situation.”

The seraph glanced away, only now seeing the paint streak across one of the councillor’s face. Those bastards.

“The Council is not fond of me as it is…I do not think anything could make that worse. And if something is troubling you, speaking of it may help you feel better. Let some weight off your shoulders.”

And they wept.

CW// MENTION OF SA UNDER CUT

They hugged Solstice tightly, letting them cry into their shoulder. They couldn't begin to explain how they felt. A deep sense of sorrow started eating away at them while a billowing rage erupted from their core. Their body began to tremble, eyes still wide with shock as they gripped onto Solstice tight, as if they were afraid to let go.

"I- I'm so-"

Ephraim couldn't even manage to properly apologize, the words getting caught in their throat. A spiral of thoughts started occupying their mind. The thought that the Council had hurt Solstice like this and Ephraim wasn't able to protect them.

Unaware of the rage that the other was feeling.

All they felt was the gnawing sensation of guilt, guilt for ever being putting themselves in this situation.

“I-I’m so sorry. I’m so sorry, I should’ve been there for you, I-“

Sorry?

“……..Ephie….”

The artisan mumbled out, their hands holding onto the other. They didn’t want to let go.

They just wanted to go to sleep.

“………………. Can… you c-come…… with me t-to….deliver.. t-this?”

The Seraph’s voice shook as they spoke.

As much as they didn’t want to finish that damn painting, they needed to get the Council off of their back.

To do that, they needed to finish that painting.

“Of course, y-yeah.”

Their voice was still a bit shaky as well, though better than before. They wanted to support Solstice however they could, to make up for all the years of isolation and pain that they had caused. They needed to right their wrongs….but was that even possible?

“…………….. T-thank you E-Ephie…. Thank you..”

The artisan sniffled out, their body leaning more into the other.

They didn’t let go, afraid that they would lose the only other person who cared and get drowned in a sea of their own pain and suffering.

“The quicker you finish it, the less you have to think about it, y-yeah?”

They hummed, letting go of Solstice and leaning back, but taking their hand into their own.

“I’m not going anywhere. Not this time.”

Until Ephraim saw them.

Ephraim froze, unable to keep themself from staring. Was that….?

( @heavenly-scribe )

In the crowd, a seraph all in draping cloth was buying art supplies. In one of their hands held a satchel already stuffed to the brim with paintbrushes and tools all wrapped up to protect it from becoming damaged. Currently, they were haggling the price of some clay that was about 15 gold per pound.

But when Solstice turned to leave in a huff, they paused when they saw Ephraim staring at them. Slowly, their tail swished back and forth as they stared back.

“Ephraim..?”

Solstice mumbled out, moving toward the other seraph. They were concerned about Ephraim, they haven’t seen the other in years… they looked so sickly, so starved.

Solstice softened their eyes as they gently brushed their hand against the other’s.

“I- yes, I am alright.”

But oh how they wished that Ephraim would hang out with them, if only if it was a short time.

“I see, well, if you wish… you’re more than welcome to join me in my studio. If you want to of course.”

The Seraph mumbled out, their tail becoming still as they spoke. They kept their hands gently folded in front of them, before turning their attention to the stuffed satchel in one of their hands.

“I… I should go back to my studio, I’m sorry if I inconvenienced you with idle chatter.”

They sighed quietly, already dreading having to finish that art piece of the Council. To present it to that crooked group of angels.

“Wait, I- yes. I would love to join you.”

A barrage of thoughts started swirling through their mind, berating them for responding this way, for opening themself up once again. They swore years ago that they would not burden anyone anymore, they would focus only on their work and nothing else.But Solstice’s offer was too good to resist…they couldn’t help themself. Ephraim missed them too much.

Solstice looked over to Ephraim with a surprised look behind the cloth that covered their face. They cleared their throat.

“I’m glad you want to join Ephraim, I missed your presence.”

The seraphim’s face melted into a clandestine smile as they held out a hand towards the other. They were happy that the scribe wanted to join them in their studio.

Though, a small thought entered into the artisan’s mind..

They were probably distracting the other from doing their job, being a scribe to the Council. And considering the amount of scrolls and reports Ephraim had, it was a big order.

Though the artisan noticed how much the other trembled.

Were… were they doing something wrong?

“… Do tell me if you’re uncomfortable Ephie, I don’t wish to force you into anything.”

Solstice spoke with a concerned tone, taking care to not pull Ephraim along. Especially when ascending the steps to their studio.

It was connected to other buildings, but it stood away far enough for Solstice to be comfortable. It was a sizeable building compared to the others, with large swathes of stained glass admist the large windows of the studio. The door a large piece of hand-painted willow wood that was locked at all times, for safety.

Luckily, it wasn’t that long of a walk from the plaza to their studio.

“N-Not at all! I promise.”

They continued to follow behind Solstice, looking up at the studio as they got closer. They had no idea how long it had been since they last visited….decades, maybe even more. It all felt the same to them.

It felt.. right.

“I believe you Ephraim, don’t worry over it.”

The artisan chuckled, gently pulling away to unlock the hand-painted willow wood and opened it for Ephraim.

“I apologise if it’s a bit… cluttered, I’ve been accustomed to crashing here than my quarters.”

They explained, walking in after the other to close and lock the door. It wasn’t that cluttered, just stray clumps of crumpled paper and tufts of feathers littered the studio. It smelled faintly of smoke from a fire but it was overwhelmed by the smell of dust and Solstice themselves.

"It is alright, my quarters are not much better..."

“I suppose I’ll have to see that for myself.”

The artisan joked, a soft chuckle coming from them. They slowly walked towards the unfinished oil painting of the council, refreshing the oil paints on the table and sitting on the bench.

“The council has already been pestering me to finish this portrait. It’s been overdue due to….. personal concerns.”

They walked over to another nearby bench, sitting down and watching Solstice as they began to work on the portrait. Ephraim nodded, letting out a small sigh.

“The Council has somehow gotten even more demanding as of late….I cannot blame you.”

Solstice asked, rolling their eyes from behind their veiled head. They continued to paint and while it seemed like they weren’t paying attention, they were.

“I suppose so, but can you trust me that you’ll tell me if it gets overwhelming? However small that may be?”

The artisan mumbled out, their face behind their veil a look of concern once more. They figited the paintbrush in their hand, wanting the scribe to atleast be honest about their work with the other.

How hypocritical of Solstice.

“..alright. I will.”

The lie came out too easily. They couldn’t tell Solstice about their troubles, they couldn’t tell anyone. They had to stay silent and do their job. That’s it. They had to be worth something.

“….. I… I don’t know Ephie. I really don’t.”

The artisan shuddered before clearing their throat and continued to work on the painting of the council.

Of those crooked angels.

But they didn’t want Ephraim to get involved.

“But I shouldn’t dwell on it, it’s… it’s n-nothing, really.”

“If something is on your mind, you can speak to me of it. I promise.”

But the artisan didn’t seem to care in that moment.

“… It’s..”

They began, their voice growing a tad softer.

“It’s about the council… Ephraim. To say it is to bring you into the situation.”

The seraph glanced away, only now seeing the paint streak across one of the councillor’s face. Those bastards.

“The Council is not fond of me as it is…I do not think anything could make that worse. And if something is troubling you, speaking of it may help you feel better. Let some weight off your shoulders.”

And they wept.

CW// MENTION OF SA UNDER CUT

They hugged Solstice tightly, letting them cry into their shoulder. They couldn't begin to explain how they felt. A deep sense of sorrow started eating away at them while a billowing rage erupted from their core. Their body began to tremble, eyes still wide with shock as they gripped onto Solstice tight, as if they were afraid to let go.

"I- I'm so-"

Ephraim couldn't even manage to properly apologize, the words getting caught in their throat. A spiral of thoughts started occupying their mind. The thought that the Council had hurt Solstice like this and Ephraim wasn't able to protect them.

Unaware of the rage that the other was feeling.

All they felt was the gnawing sensation of guilt, guilt for ever being putting themselves in this situation.

“I-I’m so sorry. I’m so sorry, I should’ve been there for you, I-“

Sorry?

“……..Ephie….”

The artisan mumbled out, their hands holding onto the other. They didn’t want to let go.

They just wanted to go to sleep.

“………………. Can… you c-come…… with me t-to….deliver.. t-this?”

The Seraph’s voice shook as they spoke.

As much as they didn’t want to finish that damn painting, they needed to get the Council off of their back.

To do that, they needed to finish that painting.

“Of course, y-yeah.”

Their voice was still a bit shaky as well, though better than before. They wanted to support Solstice however they could, to make up for all the years of isolation and pain that they had caused. They needed to right their wrongs….but was that even possible?

Until Ephraim saw them.

Ephraim froze, unable to keep themself from staring. Was that….?

( @heavenly-scribe )

In the crowd, a seraph all in draping cloth was buying art supplies. In one of their hands held a satchel already stuffed to the brim with paintbrushes and tools all wrapped up to protect it from becoming damaged. Currently, they were haggling the price of some clay that was about 15 gold per pound.

But when Solstice turned to leave in a huff, they paused when they saw Ephraim staring at them. Slowly, their tail swished back and forth as they stared back.

“Ephraim..?”

Solstice mumbled out, moving toward the other seraph. They were concerned about Ephraim, they haven’t seen the other in years… they looked so sickly, so starved.

Solstice softened their eyes as they gently brushed their hand against the other’s.

“I- yes, I am alright.”

But oh how they wished that Ephraim would hang out with them, if only if it was a short time.

“I see, well, if you wish… you’re more than welcome to join me in my studio. If you want to of course.”

The Seraph mumbled out, their tail becoming still as they spoke. They kept their hands gently folded in front of them, before turning their attention to the stuffed satchel in one of their hands.

“I… I should go back to my studio, I’m sorry if I inconvenienced you with idle chatter.”

They sighed quietly, already dreading having to finish that art piece of the Council. To present it to that crooked group of angels.

“Wait, I- yes. I would love to join you.”

A barrage of thoughts started swirling through their mind, berating them for responding this way, for opening themself up once again. They swore years ago that they would not burden anyone anymore, they would focus only on their work and nothing else.But Solstice’s offer was too good to resist…they couldn’t help themself. Ephraim missed them too much.

Solstice looked over to Ephraim with a surprised look behind the cloth that covered their face. They cleared their throat.

“I’m glad you want to join Ephraim, I missed your presence.”

The seraphim’s face melted into a clandestine smile as they held out a hand towards the other. They were happy that the scribe wanted to join them in their studio.

Though, a small thought entered into the artisan’s mind..

They were probably distracting the other from doing their job, being a scribe to the Council. And considering the amount of scrolls and reports Ephraim had, it was a big order.

Though the artisan noticed how much the other trembled.

Were… were they doing something wrong?

“… Do tell me if you’re uncomfortable Ephie, I don’t wish to force you into anything.”

Solstice spoke with a concerned tone, taking care to not pull Ephraim along. Especially when ascending the steps to their studio.

It was connected to other buildings, but it stood away far enough for Solstice to be comfortable. It was a sizeable building compared to the others, with large swathes of stained glass admist the large windows of the studio. The door a large piece of hand-painted willow wood that was locked at all times, for safety.

Luckily, it wasn’t that long of a walk from the plaza to their studio.

“N-Not at all! I promise.”

They continued to follow behind Solstice, looking up at the studio as they got closer. They had no idea how long it had been since they last visited….decades, maybe even more. It all felt the same to them.

It felt.. right.

“I believe you Ephraim, don’t worry over it.”

The artisan chuckled, gently pulling away to unlock the hand-painted willow wood and opened it for Ephraim.

“I apologise if it’s a bit… cluttered, I’ve been accustomed to crashing here than my quarters.”

They explained, walking in after the other to close and lock the door. It wasn’t that cluttered, just stray clumps of crumpled paper and tufts of feathers littered the studio. It smelled faintly of smoke from a fire but it was overwhelmed by the smell of dust and Solstice themselves.

"It is alright, my quarters are not much better..."

“I suppose I’ll have to see that for myself.”

The artisan joked, a soft chuckle coming from them. They slowly walked towards the unfinished oil painting of the council, refreshing the oil paints on the table and sitting on the bench.

“The council has already been pestering me to finish this portrait. It’s been overdue due to….. personal concerns.”

They walked over to another nearby bench, sitting down and watching Solstice as they began to work on the portrait. Ephraim nodded, letting out a small sigh.

“The Council has somehow gotten even more demanding as of late….I cannot blame you.”

Solstice asked, rolling their eyes from behind their veiled head. They continued to paint and while it seemed like they weren’t paying attention, they were.

“I suppose so, but can you trust me that you’ll tell me if it gets overwhelming? However small that may be?”

The artisan mumbled out, their face behind their veil a look of concern once more. They figited the paintbrush in their hand, wanting the scribe to atleast be honest about their work with the other.

How hypocritical of Solstice.

“..alright. I will.”

The lie came out too easily. They couldn’t tell Solstice about their troubles, they couldn’t tell anyone. They had to stay silent and do their job. That’s it. They had to be worth something.

“….. I… I don’t know Ephie. I really don’t.”

The artisan shuddered before clearing their throat and continued to work on the painting of the council.

Of those crooked angels.

But they didn’t want Ephraim to get involved.

“But I shouldn’t dwell on it, it’s… it’s n-nothing, really.”

“If something is on your mind, you can speak to me of it. I promise.”

But the artisan didn’t seem to care in that moment.

“… It’s..”

They began, their voice growing a tad softer.

“It’s about the council… Ephraim. To say it is to bring you into the situation.”

The seraph glanced away, only now seeing the paint streak across one of the councillor’s face. Those bastards.

“The Council is not fond of me as it is…I do not think anything could make that worse. And if something is troubling you, speaking of it may help you feel better. Let some weight off your shoulders.”

And they wept.

CW// MENTION OF SA UNDER CUT

They hugged Solstice tightly, letting them cry into their shoulder. They couldn't begin to explain how they felt. A deep sense of sorrow started eating away at them while a billowing rage erupted from their core. Their body began to tremble, eyes still wide with shock as they gripped onto Solstice tight, as if they were afraid to let go.

"I- I'm so-"

Ephraim couldn't even manage to properly apologize, the words getting caught in their throat. A spiral of thoughts started occupying their mind. The thought that the Council had hurt Solstice like this and Ephraim wasn't able to protect them.

Unaware of the rage that the other was feeling.

All they felt was the gnawing sensation of guilt, guilt for ever being putting themselves in this situation.

“I-I’m so sorry. I’m so sorry, I should’ve been there for you, I-“

Until Ephraim saw them.

Ephraim froze, unable to keep themself from staring. Was that….?

( @heavenly-scribe )

In the crowd, a seraph all in draping cloth was buying art supplies. In one of their hands held a satchel already stuffed to the brim with paintbrushes and tools all wrapped up to protect it from becoming damaged. Currently, they were haggling the price of some clay that was about 15 gold per pound.

But when Solstice turned to leave in a huff, they paused when they saw Ephraim staring at them. Slowly, their tail swished back and forth as they stared back.

“Ephraim..?”

Solstice mumbled out, moving toward the other seraph. They were concerned about Ephraim, they haven’t seen the other in years… they looked so sickly, so starved.

Solstice softened their eyes as they gently brushed their hand against the other’s.

“I- yes, I am alright.”

But oh how they wished that Ephraim would hang out with them, if only if it was a short time.

“I see, well, if you wish… you’re more than welcome to join me in my studio. If you want to of course.”

The Seraph mumbled out, their tail becoming still as they spoke. They kept their hands gently folded in front of them, before turning their attention to the stuffed satchel in one of their hands.

“I… I should go back to my studio, I’m sorry if I inconvenienced you with idle chatter.”

They sighed quietly, already dreading having to finish that art piece of the Council. To present it to that crooked group of angels.

“Wait, I- yes. I would love to join you.”

A barrage of thoughts started swirling through their mind, berating them for responding this way, for opening themself up once again. They swore years ago that they would not burden anyone anymore, they would focus only on their work and nothing else.But Solstice’s offer was too good to resist…they couldn’t help themself. Ephraim missed them too much.

Solstice looked over to Ephraim with a surprised look behind the cloth that covered their face. They cleared their throat.

“I’m glad you want to join Ephraim, I missed your presence.”

The seraphim’s face melted into a clandestine smile as they held out a hand towards the other. They were happy that the scribe wanted to join them in their studio.

Though, a small thought entered into the artisan’s mind..

They were probably distracting the other from doing their job, being a scribe to the Council. And considering the amount of scrolls and reports Ephraim had, it was a big order.

Though the artisan noticed how much the other trembled.

Were… were they doing something wrong?

“… Do tell me if you’re uncomfortable Ephie, I don’t wish to force you into anything.”

Solstice spoke with a concerned tone, taking care to not pull Ephraim along. Especially when ascending the steps to their studio.

It was connected to other buildings, but it stood away far enough for Solstice to be comfortable. It was a sizeable building compared to the others, with large swathes of stained glass admist the large windows of the studio. The door a large piece of hand-painted willow wood that was locked at all times, for safety.

Luckily, it wasn’t that long of a walk from the plaza to their studio.

“N-Not at all! I promise.”

They continued to follow behind Solstice, looking up at the studio as they got closer. They had no idea how long it had been since they last visited….decades, maybe even more. It all felt the same to them.

It felt.. right.

“I believe you Ephraim, don’t worry over it.”

The artisan chuckled, gently pulling away to unlock the hand-painted willow wood and opened it for Ephraim.

“I apologise if it’s a bit… cluttered, I’ve been accustomed to crashing here than my quarters.”

They explained, walking in after the other to close and lock the door. It wasn’t that cluttered, just stray clumps of crumpled paper and tufts of feathers littered the studio. It smelled faintly of smoke from a fire but it was overwhelmed by the smell of dust and Solstice themselves.

"It is alright, my quarters are not much better..."

“I suppose I’ll have to see that for myself.”

The artisan joked, a soft chuckle coming from them. They slowly walked towards the unfinished oil painting of the council, refreshing the oil paints on the table and sitting on the bench.

“The council has already been pestering me to finish this portrait. It’s been overdue due to….. personal concerns.”

They walked over to another nearby bench, sitting down and watching Solstice as they began to work on the portrait. Ephraim nodded, letting out a small sigh.

“The Council has somehow gotten even more demanding as of late….I cannot blame you.”

Solstice asked, rolling their eyes from behind their veiled head. They continued to paint and while it seemed like they weren’t paying attention, they were.

“I suppose so, but can you trust me that you’ll tell me if it gets overwhelming? However small that may be?”

The artisan mumbled out, their face behind their veil a look of concern once more. They figited the paintbrush in their hand, wanting the scribe to atleast be honest about their work with the other.

How hypocritical of Solstice.

“..alright. I will.”

The lie came out too easily. They couldn’t tell Solstice about their troubles, they couldn’t tell anyone. They had to stay silent and do their job. That’s it. They had to be worth something.

“….. I… I don’t know Ephie. I really don’t.”

The artisan shuddered before clearing their throat and continued to work on the painting of the council.

Of those crooked angels.

But they didn’t want Ephraim to get involved.

“But I shouldn’t dwell on it, it’s… it’s n-nothing, really.”

“If something is on your mind, you can speak to me of it. I promise.”

But the artisan didn’t seem to care in that moment.

“… It’s..”

They began, their voice growing a tad softer.

“It’s about the council… Ephraim. To say it is to bring you into the situation.”

The seraph glanced away, only now seeing the paint streak across one of the councillor’s face. Those bastards.

“The Council is not fond of me as it is…I do not think anything could make that worse. And if something is troubling you, speaking of it may help you feel better. Let some weight off your shoulders.”

And they wept.

CW// MENTION OF SA UNDER CUT

They hugged Solstice tightly, letting them cry into their shoulder. They couldn't begin to explain how they felt. A deep sense of sorrow started eating away at them while a billowing rage erupted from their core. Their body began to tremble, eyes still wide with shock as they gripped onto Solstice tight, as if they were afraid to let go.

"I- I'm so-"

Ephraim couldn't even manage to properly apologize, the words getting caught in their throat. A spiral of thoughts started occupying their mind. The thought that the Council had hurt Solstice like this and Ephraim wasn't able to protect them.

Until Ephraim saw them.

Ephraim froze, unable to keep themself from staring. Was that….?

( @heavenly-scribe )

In the crowd, a seraph all in draping cloth was buying art supplies. In one of their hands held a satchel already stuffed to the brim with paintbrushes and tools all wrapped up to protect it from becoming damaged. Currently, they were haggling the price of some clay that was about 15 gold per pound.

But when Solstice turned to leave in a huff, they paused when they saw Ephraim staring at them. Slowly, their tail swished back and forth as they stared back.

“Ephraim..?”

Solstice mumbled out, moving toward the other seraph. They were concerned about Ephraim, they haven’t seen the other in years… they looked so sickly, so starved.

Solstice softened their eyes as they gently brushed their hand against the other’s.

“I- yes, I am alright.”

But oh how they wished that Ephraim would hang out with them, if only if it was a short time.

“I see, well, if you wish… you’re more than welcome to join me in my studio. If you want to of course.”

The Seraph mumbled out, their tail becoming still as they spoke. They kept their hands gently folded in front of them, before turning their attention to the stuffed satchel in one of their hands.

“I… I should go back to my studio, I’m sorry if I inconvenienced you with idle chatter.”

They sighed quietly, already dreading having to finish that art piece of the Council. To present it to that crooked group of angels.

“Wait, I- yes. I would love to join you.”

A barrage of thoughts started swirling through their mind, berating them for responding this way, for opening themself up once again. They swore years ago that they would not burden anyone anymore, they would focus only on their work and nothing else.But Solstice’s offer was too good to resist…they couldn’t help themself. Ephraim missed them too much.

Solstice looked over to Ephraim with a surprised look behind the cloth that covered their face. They cleared their throat.

“I’m glad you want to join Ephraim, I missed your presence.”

The seraphim’s face melted into a clandestine smile as they held out a hand towards the other. They were happy that the scribe wanted to join them in their studio.

Though, a small thought entered into the artisan’s mind..

They were probably distracting the other from doing their job, being a scribe to the Council. And considering the amount of scrolls and reports Ephraim had, it was a big order.

Though the artisan noticed how much the other trembled.

Were… were they doing something wrong?

“… Do tell me if you’re uncomfortable Ephie, I don’t wish to force you into anything.”

Solstice spoke with a concerned tone, taking care to not pull Ephraim along. Especially when ascending the steps to their studio.

It was connected to other buildings, but it stood away far enough for Solstice to be comfortable. It was a sizeable building compared to the others, with large swathes of stained glass admist the large windows of the studio. The door a large piece of hand-painted willow wood that was locked at all times, for safety.

Luckily, it wasn’t that long of a walk from the plaza to their studio.

“N-Not at all! I promise.”

They continued to follow behind Solstice, looking up at the studio as they got closer. They had no idea how long it had been since they last visited….decades, maybe even more. It all felt the same to them.

It felt.. right.

“I believe you Ephraim, don’t worry over it.”

The artisan chuckled, gently pulling away to unlock the hand-painted willow wood and opened it for Ephraim.

“I apologise if it’s a bit… cluttered, I’ve been accustomed to crashing here than my quarters.”

They explained, walking in after the other to close and lock the door. It wasn’t that cluttered, just stray clumps of crumpled paper and tufts of feathers littered the studio. It smelled faintly of smoke from a fire but it was overwhelmed by the smell of dust and Solstice themselves.

"It is alright, my quarters are not much better..."

“I suppose I’ll have to see that for myself.”

The artisan joked, a soft chuckle coming from them. They slowly walked towards the unfinished oil painting of the council, refreshing the oil paints on the table and sitting on the bench.

“The council has already been pestering me to finish this portrait. It’s been overdue due to….. personal concerns.”

They walked over to another nearby bench, sitting down and watching Solstice as they began to work on the portrait. Ephraim nodded, letting out a small sigh.

“The Council has somehow gotten even more demanding as of late….I cannot blame you.”

Solstice asked, rolling their eyes from behind their veiled head. They continued to paint and while it seemed like they weren’t paying attention, they were.

“I suppose so, but can you trust me that you’ll tell me if it gets overwhelming? However small that may be?”

The artisan mumbled out, their face behind their veil a look of concern once more. They figited the paintbrush in their hand, wanting the scribe to atleast be honest about their work with the other.

How hypocritical of Solstice.

“..alright. I will.”

The lie came out too easily. They couldn’t tell Solstice about their troubles, they couldn’t tell anyone. They had to stay silent and do their job. That’s it. They had to be worth something.

“….. I… I don’t know Ephie. I really don’t.”

The artisan shuddered before clearing their throat and continued to work on the painting of the council.

Of those crooked angels.

But they didn’t want Ephraim to get involved.

“But I shouldn’t dwell on it, it’s… it’s n-nothing, really.”

“If something is on your mind, you can speak to me of it. I promise.”

But the artisan didn’t seem to care in that moment.

“… It’s..”

They began, their voice growing a tad softer.

“It’s about the council… Ephraim. To say it is to bring you into the situation.”

The seraph glanced away, only now seeing the paint streak across one of the councillor’s face. Those bastards.

“The Council is not fond of me as it is…I do not think anything could make that worse. And if something is troubling you, speaking of it may help you feel better. Let some weight off your shoulders.”

Until Ephraim saw them.

Ephraim froze, unable to keep themself from staring. Was that….?

( @heavenly-scribe )

In the crowd, a seraph all in draping cloth was buying art supplies. In one of their hands held a satchel already stuffed to the brim with paintbrushes and tools all wrapped up to protect it from becoming damaged. Currently, they were haggling the price of some clay that was about 15 gold per pound.

But when Solstice turned to leave in a huff, they paused when they saw Ephraim staring at them. Slowly, their tail swished back and forth as they stared back.

“Ephraim..?”

Solstice mumbled out, moving toward the other seraph. They were concerned about Ephraim, they haven’t seen the other in years… they looked so sickly, so starved.

Solstice softened their eyes as they gently brushed their hand against the other’s.

“I- yes, I am alright.”

But oh how they wished that Ephraim would hang out with them, if only if it was a short time.

“I see, well, if you wish… you’re more than welcome to join me in my studio. If you want to of course.”

The Seraph mumbled out, their tail becoming still as they spoke. They kept their hands gently folded in front of them, before turning their attention to the stuffed satchel in one of their hands.

“I… I should go back to my studio, I’m sorry if I inconvenienced you with idle chatter.”

They sighed quietly, already dreading having to finish that art piece of the Council. To present it to that crooked group of angels.

“Wait, I- yes. I would love to join you.”

A barrage of thoughts started swirling through their mind, berating them for responding this way, for opening themself up once again. They swore years ago that they would not burden anyone anymore, they would focus only on their work and nothing else.But Solstice’s offer was too good to resist…they couldn’t help themself. Ephraim missed them too much.

Solstice looked over to Ephraim with a surprised look behind the cloth that covered their face. They cleared their throat.

“I’m glad you want to join Ephraim, I missed your presence.”

The seraphim’s face melted into a clandestine smile as they held out a hand towards the other. They were happy that the scribe wanted to join them in their studio.

Though, a small thought entered into the artisan’s mind..

They were probably distracting the other from doing their job, being a scribe to the Council. And considering the amount of scrolls and reports Ephraim had, it was a big order.

Though the artisan noticed how much the other trembled.

Were… were they doing something wrong?

“… Do tell me if you’re uncomfortable Ephie, I don’t wish to force you into anything.”

Solstice spoke with a concerned tone, taking care to not pull Ephraim along. Especially when ascending the steps to their studio.

It was connected to other buildings, but it stood away far enough for Solstice to be comfortable. It was a sizeable building compared to the others, with large swathes of stained glass admist the large windows of the studio. The door a large piece of hand-painted willow wood that was locked at all times, for safety.

Luckily, it wasn’t that long of a walk from the plaza to their studio.

“N-Not at all! I promise.”

They continued to follow behind Solstice, looking up at the studio as they got closer. They had no idea how long it had been since they last visited….decades, maybe even more. It all felt the same to them.

It felt.. right.

“I believe you Ephraim, don’t worry over it.”

The artisan chuckled, gently pulling away to unlock the hand-painted willow wood and opened it for Ephraim.

“I apologise if it’s a bit… cluttered, I’ve been accustomed to crashing here than my quarters.”

They explained, walking in after the other to close and lock the door. It wasn’t that cluttered, just stray clumps of crumpled paper and tufts of feathers littered the studio. It smelled faintly of smoke from a fire but it was overwhelmed by the smell of dust and Solstice themselves.

"It is alright, my quarters are not much better..."

“I suppose I’ll have to see that for myself.”

The artisan joked, a soft chuckle coming from them. They slowly walked towards the unfinished oil painting of the council, refreshing the oil paints on the table and sitting on the bench.

“The council has already been pestering me to finish this portrait. It’s been overdue due to….. personal concerns.”

They walked over to another nearby bench, sitting down and watching Solstice as they began to work on the portrait. Ephraim nodded, letting out a small sigh.

“The Council has somehow gotten even more demanding as of late….I cannot blame you.”

Solstice asked, rolling their eyes from behind their veiled head. They continued to paint and while it seemed like they weren’t paying attention, they were.

“I suppose so, but can you trust me that you’ll tell me if it gets overwhelming? However small that may be?”

The artisan mumbled out, their face behind their veil a look of concern once more. They figited the paintbrush in their hand, wanting the scribe to atleast be honest about their work with the other.

How hypocritical of Solstice.

“..alright. I will.”

The lie came out too easily. They couldn’t tell Solstice about their troubles, they couldn’t tell anyone. They had to stay silent and do their job. That’s it. They had to be worth something.

“….. I… I don’t know Ephie. I really don’t.”

The artisan shuddered before clearing their throat and continued to work on the painting of the council.

Of those crooked angels.

But they didn’t want Ephraim to get involved.

“But I shouldn’t dwell on it, it’s… it’s n-nothing, really.”

“If something is on your mind, you can speak to me of it. I promise.”

Until Ephraim saw them.

Ephraim froze, unable to keep themself from staring. Was that….?

( @heavenly-scribe )

In the crowd, a seraph all in draping cloth was buying art supplies. In one of their hands held a satchel already stuffed to the brim with paintbrushes and tools all wrapped up to protect it from becoming damaged. Currently, they were haggling the price of some clay that was about 15 gold per pound.

But when Solstice turned to leave in a huff, they paused when they saw Ephraim staring at them. Slowly, their tail swished back and forth as they stared back.

“Ephraim..?”

Solstice mumbled out, moving toward the other seraph. They were concerned about Ephraim, they haven’t seen the other in years… they looked so sickly, so starved.

Solstice softened their eyes as they gently brushed their hand against the other’s.

“I- yes, I am alright.”

But oh how they wished that Ephraim would hang out with them, if only if it was a short time.

“I see, well, if you wish… you’re more than welcome to join me in my studio. If you want to of course.”

The Seraph mumbled out, their tail becoming still as they spoke. They kept their hands gently folded in front of them, before turning their attention to the stuffed satchel in one of their hands.

“I… I should go back to my studio, I’m sorry if I inconvenienced you with idle chatter.”

They sighed quietly, already dreading having to finish that art piece of the Council. To present it to that crooked group of angels.

“Wait, I- yes. I would love to join you.”

A barrage of thoughts started swirling through their mind, berating them for responding this way, for opening themself up once again. They swore years ago that they would not burden anyone anymore, they would focus only on their work and nothing else.But Solstice’s offer was too good to resist…they couldn’t help themself. Ephraim missed them too much.

Solstice looked over to Ephraim with a surprised look behind the cloth that covered their face. They cleared their throat.

“I’m glad you want to join Ephraim, I missed your presence.”

The seraphim’s face melted into a clandestine smile as they held out a hand towards the other. They were happy that the scribe wanted to join them in their studio.

Though, a small thought entered into the artisan’s mind..

They were probably distracting the other from doing their job, being a scribe to the Council. And considering the amount of scrolls and reports Ephraim had, it was a big order.

Though the artisan noticed how much the other trembled.

Were… were they doing something wrong?

“… Do tell me if you’re uncomfortable Ephie, I don’t wish to force you into anything.”

Solstice spoke with a concerned tone, taking care to not pull Ephraim along. Especially when ascending the steps to their studio.

It was connected to other buildings, but it stood away far enough for Solstice to be comfortable. It was a sizeable building compared to the others, with large swathes of stained glass admist the large windows of the studio. The door a large piece of hand-painted willow wood that was locked at all times, for safety.

Luckily, it wasn’t that long of a walk from the plaza to their studio.

“N-Not at all! I promise.”

They continued to follow behind Solstice, looking up at the studio as they got closer. They had no idea how long it had been since they last visited….decades, maybe even more. It all felt the same to them.

It felt.. right.

“I believe you Ephraim, don’t worry over it.”

The artisan chuckled, gently pulling away to unlock the hand-painted willow wood and opened it for Ephraim.

“I apologise if it’s a bit… cluttered, I’ve been accustomed to crashing here than my quarters.”

They explained, walking in after the other to close and lock the door. It wasn’t that cluttered, just stray clumps of crumpled paper and tufts of feathers littered the studio. It smelled faintly of smoke from a fire but it was overwhelmed by the smell of dust and Solstice themselves.

"It is alright, my quarters are not much better..."

“I suppose I’ll have to see that for myself.”

The artisan joked, a soft chuckle coming from them. They slowly walked towards the unfinished oil painting of the council, refreshing the oil paints on the table and sitting on the bench.

“The council has already been pestering me to finish this portrait. It’s been overdue due to….. personal concerns.”

They walked over to another nearby bench, sitting down and watching Solstice as they began to work on the portrait. Ephraim nodded, letting out a small sigh.

“The Council has somehow gotten even more demanding as of late….I cannot blame you.”

Solstice asked, rolling their eyes from behind their veiled head. They continued to paint and while it seemed like they weren’t paying attention, they were.

“I suppose so, but can you trust me that you’ll tell me if it gets overwhelming? However small that may be?”

The artisan mumbled out, their face behind their veil a look of concern once more. They figited the paintbrush in their hand, wanting the scribe to atleast be honest about their work with the other.

How hypocritical of Solstice.

“..alright. I will.”

The lie came out too easily. They couldn’t tell Solstice about their troubles, they couldn’t tell anyone. They had to stay silent and do their job. That’s it. They had to be worth something.

Until Ephraim saw them.

Ephraim froze, unable to keep themself from staring. Was that….?

( @heavenly-scribe )

In the crowd, a seraph all in draping cloth was buying art supplies. In one of their hands held a satchel already stuffed to the brim with paintbrushes and tools all wrapped up to protect it from becoming damaged. Currently, they were haggling the price of some clay that was about 15 gold per pound.

But when Solstice turned to leave in a huff, they paused when they saw Ephraim staring at them. Slowly, their tail swished back and forth as they stared back.

“Ephraim..?”

Solstice mumbled out, moving toward the other seraph. They were concerned about Ephraim, they haven’t seen the other in years… they looked so sickly, so starved.

Solstice softened their eyes as they gently brushed their hand against the other’s.

“I- yes, I am alright.”

But oh how they wished that Ephraim would hang out with them, if only if it was a short time.

“I see, well, if you wish… you’re more than welcome to join me in my studio. If you want to of course.”

The Seraph mumbled out, their tail becoming still as they spoke. They kept their hands gently folded in front of them, before turning their attention to the stuffed satchel in one of their hands.

“I… I should go back to my studio, I’m sorry if I inconvenienced you with idle chatter.”

They sighed quietly, already dreading having to finish that art piece of the Council. To present it to that crooked group of angels.

“Wait, I- yes. I would love to join you.”

A barrage of thoughts started swirling through their mind, berating them for responding this way, for opening themself up once again. They swore years ago that they would not burden anyone anymore, they would focus only on their work and nothing else.But Solstice’s offer was too good to resist…they couldn’t help themself. Ephraim missed them too much.

Solstice looked over to Ephraim with a surprised look behind the cloth that covered their face. They cleared their throat.

“I’m glad you want to join Ephraim, I missed your presence.”

The seraphim’s face melted into a clandestine smile as they held out a hand towards the other. They were happy that the scribe wanted to join them in their studio.

Though, a small thought entered into the artisan’s mind..

They were probably distracting the other from doing their job, being a scribe to the Council. And considering the amount of scrolls and reports Ephraim had, it was a big order.

Though the artisan noticed how much the other trembled.

Were… were they doing something wrong?

“… Do tell me if you’re uncomfortable Ephie, I don’t wish to force you into anything.”

Solstice spoke with a concerned tone, taking care to not pull Ephraim along. Especially when ascending the steps to their studio.

It was connected to other buildings, but it stood away far enough for Solstice to be comfortable. It was a sizeable building compared to the others, with large swathes of stained glass admist the large windows of the studio. The door a large piece of hand-painted willow wood that was locked at all times, for safety.

Luckily, it wasn’t that long of a walk from the plaza to their studio.

“N-Not at all! I promise.”

They continued to follow behind Solstice, looking up at the studio as they got closer. They had no idea how long it had been since they last visited….decades, maybe even more. It all felt the same to them.

It felt.. right.

“I believe you Ephraim, don’t worry over it.”

The artisan chuckled, gently pulling away to unlock the hand-painted willow wood and opened it for Ephraim.

“I apologise if it’s a bit… cluttered, I’ve been accustomed to crashing here than my quarters.”

They explained, walking in after the other to close and lock the door. It wasn’t that cluttered, just stray clumps of crumpled paper and tufts of feathers littered the studio. It smelled faintly of smoke from a fire but it was overwhelmed by the smell of dust and Solstice themselves.

"It is alright, my quarters are not much better..."

“I suppose I’ll have to see that for myself.”

The artisan joked, a soft chuckle coming from them. They slowly walked towards the unfinished oil painting of the council, refreshing the oil paints on the table and sitting on the bench.

“The council has already been pestering me to finish this portrait. It’s been overdue due to….. personal concerns.”

They walked over to another nearby bench, sitting down and watching Solstice as they began to work on the portrait. Ephraim nodded, letting out a small sigh.

“The Council has somehow gotten even more demanding as of late….I cannot blame you.”

Solstice asked, rolling their eyes from behind their veiled head. They continued to paint and while it seemed like they weren’t paying attention, they were.

Until Ephraim saw them.

Ephraim froze, unable to keep themself from staring. Was that….?

( @heavenly-scribe )

In the crowd, a seraph all in draping cloth was buying art supplies. In one of their hands held a satchel already stuffed to the brim with paintbrushes and tools all wrapped up to protect it from becoming damaged. Currently, they were haggling the price of some clay that was about 15 gold per pound.

But when Solstice turned to leave in a huff, they paused when they saw Ephraim staring at them. Slowly, their tail swished back and forth as they stared back.

“Ephraim..?”

Solstice mumbled out, moving toward the other seraph. They were concerned about Ephraim, they haven’t seen the other in years… they looked so sickly, so starved.

Solstice softened their eyes as they gently brushed their hand against the other’s.

“I- yes, I am alright.”

But oh how they wished that Ephraim would hang out with them, if only if it was a short time.

“I see, well, if you wish… you’re more than welcome to join me in my studio. If you want to of course.”

The Seraph mumbled out, their tail becoming still as they spoke. They kept their hands gently folded in front of them, before turning their attention to the stuffed satchel in one of their hands.

“I… I should go back to my studio, I’m sorry if I inconvenienced you with idle chatter.”

They sighed quietly, already dreading having to finish that art piece of the Council. To present it to that crooked group of angels.

“Wait, I- yes. I would love to join you.”

A barrage of thoughts started swirling through their mind, berating them for responding this way, for opening themself up once again. They swore years ago that they would not burden anyone anymore, they would focus only on their work and nothing else.But Solstice’s offer was too good to resist…they couldn’t help themself. Ephraim missed them too much.

Solstice looked over to Ephraim with a surprised look behind the cloth that covered their face. They cleared their throat.

“I’m glad you want to join Ephraim, I missed your presence.”

The seraphim’s face melted into a clandestine smile as they held out a hand towards the other. They were happy that the scribe wanted to join them in their studio.

Though, a small thought entered into the artisan’s mind..

They were probably distracting the other from doing their job, being a scribe to the Council. And considering the amount of scrolls and reports Ephraim had, it was a big order.

Though the artisan noticed how much the other trembled.

Were… were they doing something wrong?

“… Do tell me if you’re uncomfortable Ephie, I don’t wish to force you into anything.”

Solstice spoke with a concerned tone, taking care to not pull Ephraim along. Especially when ascending the steps to their studio.

It was connected to other buildings, but it stood away far enough for Solstice to be comfortable. It was a sizeable building compared to the others, with large swathes of stained glass admist the large windows of the studio. The door a large piece of hand-painted willow wood that was locked at all times, for safety.

Luckily, it wasn’t that long of a walk from the plaza to their studio.

“N-Not at all! I promise.”

They continued to follow behind Solstice, looking up at the studio as they got closer. They had no idea how long it had been since they last visited….decades, maybe even more. It all felt the same to them.

It felt.. right.

“I believe you Ephraim, don’t worry over it.”

The artisan chuckled, gently pulling away to unlock the hand-painted willow wood and opened it for Ephraim.

“I apologise if it’s a bit… cluttered, I’ve been accustomed to crashing here than my quarters.”

They explained, walking in after the other to close and lock the door. It wasn’t that cluttered, just stray clumps of crumpled paper and tufts of feathers littered the studio. It smelled faintly of smoke from a fire but it was overwhelmed by the smell of dust and Solstice themselves.

"It is alright, my quarters are not much better..."

“I suppose I’ll have to see that for myself.”

The artisan joked, a soft chuckle coming from them. They slowly walked towards the unfinished oil painting of the council, refreshing the oil paints on the table and sitting on the bench.

“The council has already been pestering me to finish this portrait. It’s been overdue due to….. personal concerns.”

They walked over to another nearby bench, sitting down and watching Solstice as they began to work on the portrait. Ephraim nodded, letting out a small sigh.

“The Council has somehow gotten even more demanding as of late….I cannot blame you.”

Until Ephraim saw them.

Ephraim froze, unable to keep themself from staring. Was that….?

( @heavenly-scribe )

In the crowd, a seraph all in draping cloth was buying art supplies. In one of their hands held a satchel already stuffed to the brim with paintbrushes and tools all wrapped up to protect it from becoming damaged. Currently, they were haggling the price of some clay that was about 15 gold per pound.

But when Solstice turned to leave in a huff, they paused when they saw Ephraim staring at them. Slowly, their tail swished back and forth as they stared back.

“Ephraim..?”

Solstice mumbled out, moving toward the other seraph. They were concerned about Ephraim, they haven’t seen the other in years… they looked so sickly, so starved.

Solstice softened their eyes as they gently brushed their hand against the other’s.

“I- yes, I am alright.”

But oh how they wished that Ephraim would hang out with them, if only if it was a short time.

“I see, well, if you wish… you’re more than welcome to join me in my studio. If you want to of course.”

The Seraph mumbled out, their tail becoming still as they spoke. They kept their hands gently folded in front of them, before turning their attention to the stuffed satchel in one of their hands.

“I… I should go back to my studio, I’m sorry if I inconvenienced you with idle chatter.”

They sighed quietly, already dreading having to finish that art piece of the Council. To present it to that crooked group of angels.

“Wait, I- yes. I would love to join you.”

A barrage of thoughts started swirling through their mind, berating them for responding this way, for opening themself up once again. They swore years ago that they would not burden anyone anymore, they would focus only on their work and nothing else.But Solstice’s offer was too good to resist…they couldn’t help themself. Ephraim missed them too much.

Solstice looked over to Ephraim with a surprised look behind the cloth that covered their face. They cleared their throat.

“I’m glad you want to join Ephraim, I missed your presence.”

The seraphim’s face melted into a clandestine smile as they held out a hand towards the other. They were happy that the scribe wanted to join them in their studio.

Though, a small thought entered into the artisan’s mind..

They were probably distracting the other from doing their job, being a scribe to the Council. And considering the amount of scrolls and reports Ephraim had, it was a big order.

Though the artisan noticed how much the other trembled.

Were… were they doing something wrong?

“… Do tell me if you’re uncomfortable Ephie, I don’t wish to force you into anything.”

Solstice spoke with a concerned tone, taking care to not pull Ephraim along. Especially when ascending the steps to their studio.

It was connected to other buildings, but it stood away far enough for Solstice to be comfortable. It was a sizeable building compared to the others, with large swathes of stained glass admist the large windows of the studio. The door a large piece of hand-painted willow wood that was locked at all times, for safety.

Luckily, it wasn’t that long of a walk from the plaza to their studio.

“N-Not at all! I promise.”

They continued to follow behind Solstice, looking up at the studio as they got closer. They had no idea how long it had been since they last visited….decades, maybe even more. It all felt the same to them.

It felt.. right.

“I believe you Ephraim, don’t worry over it.”

The artisan chuckled, gently pulling away to unlock the hand-painted willow wood and opened it for Ephraim.

“I apologise if it’s a bit… cluttered, I’ve been accustomed to crashing here than my quarters.”

They explained, walking in after the other to close and lock the door. It wasn’t that cluttered, just stray clumps of crumpled paper and tufts of feathers littered the studio. It smelled faintly of smoke from a fire but it was overwhelmed by the smell of dust and Solstice themselves.

"It is alright, my quarters are not much better..."

Until Ephraim saw them.

Ephraim froze, unable to keep themself from staring. Was that….?

( @heavenly-scribe )

In the crowd, a seraph all in draping cloth was buying art supplies. In one of their hands held a satchel already stuffed to the brim with paintbrushes and tools all wrapped up to protect it from becoming damaged. Currently, they were haggling the price of some clay that was about 15 gold per pound.

But when Solstice turned to leave in a huff, they paused when they saw Ephraim staring at them. Slowly, their tail swished back and forth as they stared back.

“Ephraim..?”

Solstice mumbled out, moving toward the other seraph. They were concerned about Ephraim, they haven’t seen the other in years… they looked so sickly, so starved.

Solstice softened their eyes as they gently brushed their hand against the other’s.

“I- yes, I am alright.”

But oh how they wished that Ephraim would hang out with them, if only if it was a short time.

“I see, well, if you wish… you’re more than welcome to join me in my studio. If you want to of course.”

The Seraph mumbled out, their tail becoming still as they spoke. They kept their hands gently folded in front of them, before turning their attention to the stuffed satchel in one of their hands.

“I… I should go back to my studio, I’m sorry if I inconvenienced you with idle chatter.”

They sighed quietly, already dreading having to finish that art piece of the Council. To present it to that crooked group of angels.

“Wait, I- yes. I would love to join you.”

A barrage of thoughts started swirling through their mind, berating them for responding this way, for opening themself up once again. They swore years ago that they would not burden anyone anymore, they would focus only on their work and nothing else.But Solstice’s offer was too good to resist…they couldn’t help themself. Ephraim missed them too much.

Solstice looked over to Ephraim with a surprised look behind the cloth that covered their face. They cleared their throat.

“I’m glad you want to join Ephraim, I missed your presence.”

The seraphim’s face melted into a clandestine smile as they held out a hand towards the other. They were happy that the scribe wanted to join them in their studio.

Though, a small thought entered into the artisan’s mind..

They were probably distracting the other from doing their job, being a scribe to the Council. And considering the amount of scrolls and reports Ephraim had, it was a big order.

Though the artisan noticed how much the other trembled.

Were… were they doing something wrong?

“… Do tell me if you’re uncomfortable Ephie, I don’t wish to force you into anything.”

Solstice spoke with a concerned tone, taking care to not pull Ephraim along. Especially when ascending the steps to their studio.

It was connected to other buildings, but it stood away far enough for Solstice to be comfortable. It was a sizeable building compared to the others, with large swathes of stained glass admist the large windows of the studio. The door a large piece of hand-painted willow wood that was locked at all times, for safety.

Luckily, it wasn’t that long of a walk from the plaza to their studio.

“N-Not at all! I promise.”

They continued to follow behind Solstice, looking up at the studio as they got closer. They had no idea how long it had been since they last visited….decades, maybe even more. It all felt the same to them.

Until Ephraim saw them.

Ephraim froze, unable to keep themself from staring. Was that….?

( @heavenly-scribe )

In the crowd, a seraph all in draping cloth was buying art supplies. In one of their hands held a satchel already stuffed to the brim with paintbrushes and tools all wrapped up to protect it from becoming damaged. Currently, they were haggling the price of some clay that was about 15 gold per pound.

But when Solstice turned to leave in a huff, they paused when they saw Ephraim staring at them. Slowly, their tail swished back and forth as they stared back.

“Ephraim..?”

Solstice mumbled out, moving toward the other seraph. They were concerned about Ephraim, they haven’t seen the other in years… they looked so sickly, so starved.

Solstice softened their eyes as they gently brushed their hand against the other’s.

“I- yes, I am alright.”

But oh how they wished that Ephraim would hang out with them, if only if it was a short time.

“I see, well, if you wish… you’re more than welcome to join me in my studio. If you want to of course.”

The Seraph mumbled out, their tail becoming still as they spoke. They kept their hands gently folded in front of them, before turning their attention to the stuffed satchel in one of their hands.

“I… I should go back to my studio, I’m sorry if I inconvenienced you with idle chatter.”

They sighed quietly, already dreading having to finish that art piece of the Council. To present it to that crooked group of angels.

“Wait, I- yes. I would love to join you.”

A barrage of thoughts started swirling through their mind, berating them for responding this way, for opening themself up once again. They swore years ago that they would not burden anyone anymore, they would focus only on their work and nothing else.But Solstice’s offer was too good to resist…they couldn’t help themself. Ephraim missed them too much.

Solstice looked over to Ephraim with a surprised look behind the cloth that covered their face. They cleared their throat.

“I’m glad you want to join Ephraim, I missed your presence.”

The seraphim’s face melted into a clandestine smile as they held out a hand towards the other. They were happy that the scribe wanted to join them in their studio.

Though, a small thought entered into the artisan’s mind..

They were probably distracting the other from doing their job, being a scribe to the Council. And considering the amount of scrolls and reports Ephraim had, it was a big order.

Until Ephraim saw them.

Ephraim froze, unable to keep themself from staring. Was that….?

( @heavenly-scribe )

In the crowd, a seraph all in draping cloth was buying art supplies. In one of their hands held a satchel already stuffed to the brim with paintbrushes and tools all wrapped up to protect it from becoming damaged. Currently, they were haggling the price of some clay that was about 15 gold per pound.

But when Solstice turned to leave in a huff, they paused when they saw Ephraim staring at them. Slowly, their tail swished back and forth as they stared back.

“Ephraim..?”

Solstice mumbled out, moving toward the other seraph. They were concerned about Ephraim, they haven’t seen the other in years… they looked so sickly, so starved.

Solstice softened their eyes as they gently brushed their hand against the other’s.

“I- yes, I am alright.”

But oh how they wished that Ephraim would hang out with them, if only if it was a short time.

“I see, well, if you wish… you’re more than welcome to join me in my studio. If you want to of course.”

The Seraph mumbled out, their tail becoming still as they spoke. They kept their hands gently folded in front of them, before turning their attention to the stuffed satchel in one of their hands.

“I… I should go back to my studio, I’m sorry if I inconvenienced you with idle chatter.”

They sighed quietly, already dreading having to finish that art piece of the Council. To present it to that crooked group of angels.

“Wait, I- yes. I would love to join you.”

A barrage of thoughts started swirling through their mind, berating them for responding this way, for opening themself up once again. They swore years ago that they would not burden anyone anymore, they would focus only on their work and nothing else.But Solstice’s offer was too good to resist…they couldn’t help themself. Ephraim missed them too much.

Until Ephraim saw them.

Ephraim froze, unable to keep themself from staring. Was that….?

( @heavenly-scribe )

In the crowd, a seraph all in draping cloth was buying art supplies. In one of their hands held a satchel already stuffed to the brim with paintbrushes and tools all wrapped up to protect it from becoming damaged. Currently, they were haggling the price of some clay that was about 15 gold per pound.

But when Solstice turned to leave in a huff, they paused when they saw Ephraim staring at them. Slowly, their tail swished back and forth as they stared back.

“Ephraim..?”

Solstice mumbled out, moving toward the other seraph. They were concerned about Ephraim, they haven’t seen the other in years… they looked so sickly, so starved.

Solstice softened their eyes as they gently brushed their hand against the other’s.

“I- yes, I am alright.”

[ - @mourning-starlight ]

Ephraim had been reorganizing some of the records, humming softly as they did. They eventually caught eye of Cassiel, immediately recognizing the archangel. They wanted to help in his search but didn't want to startle him, slowly approaching from behind. They gently tapped his shoulder, hoping not to scare him.

“Forgive me.. Yes, I.. was looking for soul, soul transformation spells and spells in general, do you know if there's anything more? I.. need them for someone.”

“I can find some of those, just follow me-“

They navigated the library as if it was their home…mostly because it was. They made their way through twisting bookshelves and passed thousands of records before landing at one section, sighing and nodding. They grabbed a few books, adding them to the stack.

“This one is good for soul transformation…and this one is for protecting a soul….and this one is for general transformation spells…”

They looked back to Cassiel, tilting their head a bit.

“I…I’m sorry. That’s terrible, I hope for only success in your endeavors.”

“Ephraim! I- I presume we have not met formally, as I am a seraph, but I am afraid I…do know of your situation, as I had to make a report on it.”

"No! No I did not- I swear, I only wrote of your...silencing...not of the little one. I am just now learning of her existence from you, I promise."

They understood why he was so afraid, so they held no hard feelings.

"There is no need to apologize, I understand your concern..."