#lepida

So this new story in oc universe is about Kieran’s past this time around. Where Doleon has had his planets and galaxies he’s found and conquered for the hell of it, Kieran was…different. He didn’t exactly take joy in conquest the way Doleon did. It was more…something he had to do for survival. For him and his black arms. Something he did quickly and efficiently where Doleon reveled in it. It was a role he had to take on, and one he’d gotten so used to for the longest time that it became his new normal. A planet full of life was something he considered unusual. 

All of that was, until he’d landed on this one particular planet.

It had started out as the same routine : get to the planet, conquer, take the sustenance he and his black arms needed in harvest, and leave. It hadn’t taken long before he found the first signs of life in this forest in the distance. What are these people…? Doesn’t matter. They will be the first to go-

…He’s interrupted. Faced head on by what appears to be another member of this species, ready to take the hit for them it seemed. Looking him dead in the eyes, they introduce themself as the monarch of this planet. And they tell him…they do not want war. They don’t want it, and maybe…no, they know he doesn’t want it either.

…

He and his few black arms retreat without a word. For now. Leaving the monarch alone. But on the comet, still orbiting this planet, Kieran finds that he can’t stop thinking about them. The interaction they had. Their defiance…what they said. No one has done that before. How could one see through someone they’ve never met? As if they knew him?? He couldn’t understand it!

After a few days he realizes he wants-needs to know more about them. For. Tactical purposes. He returns to the surface of the planet to find them. Obviously the giant comet circling the planet for some time now has attracted unwanted attention. There are whispers about him, about the mysterious alien invader headed towards the palace of the monarch, two of his people following closely behind. How said invader is here right now, just roaming free?! They avoid him, out of fear. No one stops him. He’s quite used to this whole routine, so he continues on, silent as ever.

Finally reaching the palace gates Kieran is ambushed by the many guards. Another thing he’s used to by this point. What he wasn’t expecting, however, was a voice telling them to stand down. He recognized that voice, it was the very same one he was looking for. They wanted to meet with him too, and the monarch, despite the looks they received for voicing the decision, said they would be leading him in personally. 

It had to be some kind of trick. Some kind of new strategy…Kieran would follow, yes, this “meeting” was in his interest as well, but he would remain on guard, just as he always has. He saw the looks those guards shot him and his black arms before the large doors closed behind them and the monarch. He didn’t want to fight, but if it was the only thing he could do, then it would be so. 

The monarch tries to lighten the tension between them a bit beforehand, revealing their name to be Lux. They’d much rather be called that than “the monarch” or “your highness” and such, it’s so stuffy…does the big, scary Black Death have a real name they can call him too? No response. He certainly is the quiet type. 

The basics of what is said between them is that, Lux and their people don't want war, that much Black Death knows. The black arms will quickly overrun them, Lux has heard of the travesties on other planets…but they can sense that perhaps, war isn’t wanted from either side. If he truly wanted it, he would’ve attacked when he had the chance…a short time back when they first met. He would’ve done it, regardless of someone in his way, if he were truly heartless. They…know. But is there truth to their words when they say this? Really, only he can tell them that. 

But, he still doesn’t speak. How is Lux supposed to understand him if he refuses to…or maybe he…can’t. They don’t say it out loud, but they do think about the possibility. Is…there another means of communication he would prefer? Black Death is still silent for a moment, before one of his black arms steps forward. He places his hand on its forehead and then…then it speaks. Only a word, discordant and dry, like its vocal cords have rarely ever been used, but Lux can still understand well enough, did…did Black Death tell it to say that? Was he saying something to it mentally, for it to repeat? Need, it had started. Lux was still amazed. Food. It struggled more to say the final word, sustenance.

The terrifying Black Death slowly ran his hand up and down the soldiers head, before dismissing it. He. can’t write. Or read. Never really learned how to. Especially considering he never thought he’d need to, before…he doesn’t want to think about that day. But this works well enough for a form of communication, even if minimal. Sustenance for him and his people is what he seeks in exchange for the peace Lux wishes for. It’s why he even invades these planets in the first place, it’s all he can do for survival. He never considered the idea of there being another way, and although still just as defensive…it doesn’t sound like the worst idea. He’ll be ready to defend his black arms if something comes to pass. But if not? What left could he have to lose?

Eventually, somehow (with the help of little head shakes of "yes" and “no” from Kieran,) Lux is able keep "talking" with him. They think, if all goes well, both of their people could benefit greatly from a peace deal. Lux’s kingdom could provide sustenance without harming people, and perhaps Black Death’s could provide added protection from outside forces? They have an army of their own, yes, and hopefully they’ll never need to fight, but there’s no doubt that this could help improve it. Keep everyone safe.

If that was the means of survival…

Kieran agreed. The decision made between the two would soon be presented to Lux’s royal court, who even from just their expressions alone, both could tell they did not like the idea of working with the alien “invading their home.”  What they could gain from it, though, wasn’t a terrible idea…perhaps if that alien was kept on very, very close watch, they could agree with something like this. Lux says not to worry, for they will be keeping that close watch on him. They look right at him. Their little smile was the most genuine he’d ever seen. Or maybe they were just very good at looking that way. Or maybe he just hadn’t seen many. 

Wonderful. At least maybe this way, he could gain further insight on them…in the case of any scenarios.

Lux knew just as much as Kieran that the people of their kingdom would not take to this lightly, even with explanation. And they were right. But that didn’t mean things didn’t have the chance to change with time. Lux also knew things were going to work out. Kieran found himself foolishly hoping the same. NOT because this…this monarch somehow believed him to have a heart…no, this was for benefit and benefit only. Like many other things before this, this was just what had to be done for survival. 

Now all he had to do was…survive. Adapt. He knew how to do that. 

Kieran and Lux weren’t able to meet often with one another in the beginning of it all. Far too much coordination had to be done right now if the two “kingdoms” (aka Lux’s, and Kieran’s comet) were going to try and cohabitate. Lots of organizing lots of planning…the small moments where they did get to meet felt like something special. Between those moments Kieran was starting to learn a bit about this kingdom. It was called “Lepida,” a planet occupied by bug people. They’d taken in refugees from other planets affected by the infamous Black Doom’s mass genocide, remaining survivors. They, and everyone else in this kingdom, knew of his destruction. That and that only, which was all the more terrifying. So, naturally, when Black Death’s comet came around, oh-so-similar in name…

Kieran understood. It only made sense. And…it had been what he was planning to do originally. What he would do if needed, whenever the inevitable betrayal and war began. Of. Of course.

Bit of a time skip, for what had been some time now, it seemed Lux was very good at pretending to not see his presence as parasitic and traitorous like so many others. Either that, or they truly liked having him around. Was it just their sense of duty? Surely “duty” was not (over time) showing him spots on their planet, talking about their interests with him, asking if he enjoyed the same…yes, some of the things they had spoken about did intrigue Kieran to a degree…hmm. This planet did look nice, didn’t it? He’d never really had the time to “take in the sights” of other planets before. That was never an option, but this…this was alright. Things were alright here, for both him and his black arms.

Or, at least, some things were alright.

His presence here was still continuing to cause many problems. For one thing, many of the kingdoms people still felt on edge. Especially the refugees. They felt betrayed. Although Kieran had done nothing to suggest he’d be doing the same as Doom would/had done, they still insisted he would. He was just waiting for the right time! Yes, defenses had in fact improved, but how could their own monarch do this to them…? Lux’s choices and leadership were being questioned, although they really did only want the best for their people and kingdom. For another, Kieran had been facing constant threats. The guards still glared at him with looks as sharp as daggers whenever he came around. It was one in particular, though, that seemed to distrust him and his mere presence the most. Threatening him when they were alone, (“if you try anything…”) keeping a constant eye on him when he was within the palace walls…Lux called them “Rowen” one time. He wasn’t mentioned again after that. Even aside from Rowen, some of the bolder people of Lepida would shout horrible things at Kieran from time to time. It was only a matter of time before they began taking action, against him and his black arms. Peace deal or no peace deal. (There would, later on in the story, even be an attempt on his life, in which Kieran would refuse to fight back to prove he truly did not want this.)

Both Lux and Kieran were facing immense stress from it all during those short months. Maybe it would’ve all been easier if Kieran had harvested this planet like he had planned…but he couldn’t do that. Not anymore. Not after all he’d seen, and discovered, and the deal and…and Lux. Lux was kind. He hadn’t known a kind soul in…how long had it been. Centuries? Eons?? He wasn’t sure anymore. Lux was kind and smart and brave and…they radiated such curiosity and hope like Kieran had never seen. Others whispered that they were naive and foolish. But in reality it was that same hope. The one that made them bright, as bright as the sun…

They were…admirable. Yes, that was the word. 

He felt terrible for doing this to them. For causing them this unnecessary strife. He really did destroy any place he went, anyone he met. He didn’t know how he’d do it but…he had to apologize. Somehow. What a burden he was. Maybe he could just…find a way to leave this place in peace before things got any worse. It would be better. So one night, he came down from the comet, solely to go looking for them. He doubted the planets monarch would be outside the palace at this hour, but this topic had refused to leave his mind for hours, and refused to leave until he did what he had been planning, so he would just have to hope he could find them. He had found them eventually, yes, but it was…somewhere unexpected. What he was seeing was unexpected too. 

Just outside the palace grounds, in a grove of trees hidden away from everything else, Kieran distantly heard someone. Without making his presence known just yet, he spotted Lux, sitting on the ground in the center of it all. Leaning on what looks to be a grave? They’re turned the other way, speaking so very quietly…Kieran wasn’t used to hearing them that way at all…if he listened closer, he could hear sniffling. They speak to it…they don’t know if what they’re doing is right. He doesn’t seem to want to invade but he still tried to. What if he still plans to invade? What if their people are all killed because of them? What if the one in the wrong really was Lux this whole time? All these what ifs…they’re scared of the what ifs. They’re scared and they don’t know what to think or do and…they really wish…whoever this is…was still here...

They try to lightly laugh it off. They do still believe he has a heart. That he’s capable of peace. That he doesn’t want war. Is that a silly thing to believe? They always were that way, weren’t they…? 

Kieran can’t help but feel like he’s intruding, even if from a distance. But at the same time…something hurts, knowing that Lux, too, knows this kind of loss. Knows this kind of grief. Grief was such a powerful thing, one that changed him for the worst. They looked so put together upon first glance, it upsets him, to think they’re been burying things of their own…it still hurts. What was hurting?

Was it…?

Unimportant right now. He needed to leave, perhaps leave this planet all together. Being here was incredibly invasive and things would surely only get worse if he…if they-

Due to it being dark out, the great Black Death himself is unable to avoid a stray twig, stepping on it and instantly snapping Lux’s attention his way. His ears perk up in shock, and they seem to be very quick in putting that same mood he knows back up. Quickly wiping any stray tears away with their palm, they address him with an apology, saying they fear he’s caught them off guard. It’s a bit awkward between the two of them…Kieran still has no reply, but from what Lux can see, his expression looks…solemn? Is he trying to express sympathy…? They can’t try to interpret it for long, as he’s already gone within seconds. 

A part of Lux wants to follow after, but they don’t. Instead there’s a pit in their stomach, thinking about how that must’ve looked…how they must’ve looked…they can’t keep doing this. They can’t keep going down these spirals, one day they won’t be able to come back from them and they can’t allow that. Their people need them. Their people need them to be better than this. Stronger than this. 

Just like…

…They don’t finish that thought. 

For days after Lux fully expects Black Death to bring all of that up later. Or even just…ask about it, though Lux isn’t sure if they’re ready to talk about it yet. Or at all, even…but he doesn’t. There’s no mention of it at all…strange, but they don’t bring it up either. Surprisingly, everything between the two was still mostly normal. Unknown to Lux, Kieran would never bring it up. If Lux wanted to talk, then he’d listen, but if they didn’t, if they weren’t comfortable enough with him yet, then that was fine. He’d been shown the same respect by them, after all…

Then, one day, Lux comes to Kieran, inviting him out on a walk. He first makes sure all his black arms are back on the comet, then accepts. The walk ensues. Eventually, though, Kieran realizes Lux has taken him to an area they’ve never shown him before. It’s just as beautiful as the rest of the planet, though far more secluded. The river is quiet and peaceful, so it’s still very clear when Lux tells Kieran this is their favorite spot. Away from all their duties, a place they can just be alone, be themself…very few people know of this spot. And that’s why they brought him here. They thought it over, and they think they’re ready to talk about…what he saw. Talking about it would be for the better, it can’t just be ignored forever. Fate must’ve led them there at the same time for a reason, right…? They…appreciate him giving them time, by the way. They’re rather used to needing to make quick decisions.

There was that little smile of theirs again. Though they looked a bit more exhausted than before.

The grave they were sitting beside was for their older sibling, Nox, who used to be the kingdoms monarch, fairly-newly crowned at the time. They could still remember that day so clearly. A group of assassins had broken into the palace, targeting Lux. Lux hadn’t noticed in time, but Nox had, and…they jumped in front of them to protect them…and…

Lux saw them die. Bled out right in front of them. All to protect them. By that point Lux was the last remaining in the royal lineage, so without much time to properly process it all, they were already put in charge. They couldn’t understand, how everyone was able to just move on so quickly! How everyone was able to put them on the throne like Nox never existed!! Couldn’t they even have a moment to grieve?! Lux…still wondered about that sometimes. 

Lux again gives their apologizes to Black Death, rambling about their personal life, they felt like he at least deserved some kind of explanation-!

“Kieran.” They hear, soft but almost raspy, a voice that hasn’t been used in so very long, like that other black arms. It takes Lux by surprise, they look at him, wide-eyed. His real name is…Kieran. He also had siblings, once. And they too were killed protecting the likes of him. He knows this grief, and he doesn’t want Lux to have to feel it. They don’t deserve to carry that burden alone. He’s a different story. They trusted him enough to talk to him, they’ve been nothing but kind and patient with him this whole time, even with the way he started out, even with who he is…for that he thanks them. They trusted him. And so…he trusts them too. Trusts them with his name and his voice…he really believes he does. He feels comfortable sharing this with them…perhaps it’s because they can understand one another like no one else.

With a small silence that follows, all Kieran says afterwards, in a far more hushed tone, is that he’s enjoyed their company. Lux is overwhelmed with emotions again, but they don’t feel the need to hide it this time. They softly laugh. They’ve also enjoyed his company. And…they’re honored that he trusts them this way. The two are more alike than either of them would’ve thought…even through grief and struggle they persevere, for all the things they cherish so. All that is important to them. Maybe fate really did bring them together for a reason. Maybe they were destined to meet all along, help each other in more ways than one. They trust that. And they trust Kieran too.

Kieran never should’ve allowed himself to get close to someone. Not again. It could only hurt in the end, he only hurt people in the end. He knew what kind of person he was.  It was reckless. It was selfish. It was some of the best times of his life, when he got to see Lux post declaration of trust. They were becoming closer than they’d ever been. The way Lux seemed to light up the world whenever they came his way was astounding. They were starting to open up to one another more, as their real selves. Somewhere along their deepened bond, though, the way they felt in one another’s presence began to feel more akin to…what was it? What was it that made them feel more alive when they went off together? What was it that really stuck the other in their minds? Thinking more about them and what they liked in the other…what was it that made their hearts pound? Their cheeks warm? Their…

…Ah. Lux might have just fallen for the alien, cold on the outside but sweet and caring underneath the layers. And Kieran, who swore not to care? Well…he’s not quite sure what this feeling is…with all its symptoms. But it can’t be good for them…no matter how he feels.

One evening, Lux voices that they think the two deserve a break. They didn’t at first, but…what could be the harm, especially at this time? The kingdom is safe, the black arms are safe…and the two have done their duties. They feel that’s true. And they’ve noted something…Kieran, he can hover, correct? And it doesn’t have a limit? Great! In that case, would he…maybe like to…go on a flight? With them? If not they understand but-! He just nods. He’d like that. And it’s such a lovely time they spend together, talking and laughing and just enjoying one another’s company. They land on the branch of a tall tree, somewhere so high up it feels away from the world. They watch the odd sun of this solar system go down together. 

Lux, still grinning, looks at Kieran and tells him, they’ve never met anyone like him before! And it isn’t about the alien bit, it’s about…everything else. He’s amazing and he makes them feel…it’s something silly, really, but it’s a pleasant feeling. A feeling no one else has made them feel. Not like this. They love being with him. He makes them feel like they can be themself. Kieran isn’t quite sure how to respond to that, it takes him a moment…while he isn’t entirely sure how his presence could be enjoyable to someone, what Lux has said is exactly how he feels about them. It’s becoming harder and harder to be apart from them and…oh Supreme, how is he supposed to finish that sentence? Luckily, Lux finishes it for him. But not with something he expects. They think they’re in love with him. Him, of all people…is that the name for what he’s feeling too? It would explain many things, yes, but…don’t they know who he is? Of course they do, they even know his real name! They know good and well. But then…he manages to stutter out something quiet. Why? Do they truly…? He…he couldn’t believe-

And that’s when Lux kisses him. Their cheeks glow a bright gold while his whole face flashes with green. Oh.

They really do mean it don’t they. He still can’t believe it…but in a good way. In the best way. Try not to think about how you’re growing far too attached. About how this is selfish because everything you’ve ever loved will be ripped away and destroyed, like it always is and always will be. Try not to think about if being here will only make their situation worse, despite the two of you being destined to heal together. Never mind it. It won’t happen. It…it won’t happen…you’ll be alright together.

Doleon won’t find you.

Did this make them…one of those pairings of mortals Kieran occasionally heard about only in stories? A couple, Lux calls it. And…they could be. If he’d like that…he would. And so would they.

From that moment on the two were practically inseparable. They felt at their best together. Their dynamic grows more playful than before with them making small comments and jabs at how things were when they first met. Stealing kisses and being intimate while saying such weaknesses will be worthy to note for their eventual war against each other. Kieran would sneak Lux away from the eyes of the royal court, for the freedom the monarch wanted, and so they could go out more often. Lux was allowed near the black arms soldiers, if they were careful. They treated them like “big softies,” they would say. Naming them all individually, bringing them shiny trinkets. Kieran insisted it wasn’t necessary, but…the black arms seemed to like all this. And them. Was it just the hivemind, or could they too feel Lux’s genuine kindness? The two would gradually introduce one another to more personal spots they enjoyed. Lux adored the royal garden, though they often didn’t have the time to tend to it so the royal gardeners would care for the plants until they could come themself. Kieran was as fascinated by all the interesting flora as Lux was. Though it did make him think about all the other planets he destroyed, never once being able to see such sights. And, as Lux would soon come to know much later, even the black comet had its own interesting flora. Its own ecosystem, in fact! Unfortunately parasitic, but still could be beautiful in its own way…that day was the most Lux had ever heard him talk. 

Lux one day even shows him a very special gem that they’re the guardian of…the Dreamers Diamond. Legend is that long ago, a distant member of their family was visited by the Illumina, the dream goddess, herself, swearing a promise to her to protect it from evil and being granted its power. It would continue that way for eons, with one destined guardian appearing every now and then. When Lux was born, that was them, and training to handle such power began. With it, Lepida has never known the plague of nightmares. Such was Lux’s will, along with many before them. Kieran, after listening very intently, shares that his brothers too once guarded very important gems. But he doesn’t elaborate any further on those.

When the two were spotted together more and more, rumors and controversies arose. One, especially, being the idea that Black Death had done something to the monarch’s mind to make them favor him. That one was started by suitors who were still bitter that the alien invader was winning Lux’s hand. Someone had no time for such foolish behavior though. No, Rowen was enduring far worse. 

How could Lux do this? Still the same as the child he used to know. It wasn’t hopefulness. It wasn’t love. Such things had no place in important positions like these. Neither monarch, nor…

…It was naivety. It was condemning. Was Rowen the only one left with any common sense? Any memory of that day? It made them want to punch something. The assassination, the extremists, EVERYTHING. Just for Lux to allow another great danger to walk right into the palace. Just for them to form a bond with him. What would…!

What would Nox think if they were here now? What would they do…?

They think it over for a few days, silently ruminating, before one day getting angry and disappearing off into the woods. They voice their thoughts, harshly whispering to himself. Do they (Lux) not even care for the safety of the kingdom…? Its people? What are they thinking, are they thinking at all? Is that alien actually blinding them? There’s so much…he must take matters into his own hands to ensure this kingdom doesn’t collapse. But how? And with what?

As if on cue, he then hears a voice, unable to pinpoint its exact location. 

“IIII could be of assistance~”

Rowen whips out his bow and arrow and points said arrow towards the top of the trees, where he can best guess this intruder may be.

“No need to be so hostile!”

Rowen jumps and turns around, finding the owner of the voice standing there, a smug sort of look seeming to come naturally to him.

“After all, all I wish to do is help you! A tortured soul, seeking justice when eeeveryone else around them is so blind to the truth…I understand.”

Rowen doesn’t back down at all, demanding to know who this intruder is. He looks like…he looks like that invader! The person huffs, grinning, (that grin has an unnatural look to it…) and introduces himself as Doleon. He knows how it’ll make him appear, but yes…he does look like Kieran. Or, Black Death, as he’s been going by now, huh? That brother of his does the craziest things…like this little stunt. Greenie here is pretty tired of it too, yeah?

Rowen grumbles. That man is his brother? Then how are they supposed to trust him either? Is this man too following in the steps of Black Doom? Ha. A valid concern. But Doleon is nothing like his brother. Kieran, oh, he enjoys this kind of suffering more than anything. If Doleon knows him, he’s planning to gain trust from the inside, then backstab them all and take the whooole planet for himself. He’s monstrous, Rowen was right to be wary. But, he has to wonder…what is it exactly that makes him so angry? How’d they catch on?

Rowen tries to brush it off…he only just met Doleon and he’s still an invader too. He couldn’t possibly have anything to back this claim! They just knew. But no, Doleon can sense it. They’re passionate about this. They know something else. Something drives them…perhaps even…someone? Otherwise why wouldn’t they just-!

“Because it wasn’t supposed to be them!”

Rowen doesn’t elaborate, but he thinks about it now. Nox. His monarch. His closest friend. His…he had to admit it. There was something deeper between them that could never be. There had to have been…he knew that’s how he felt. And they might’ve too. But there were rules. There were standards. They had their places and they needed to behave. Apparently that was something Lux didn’t know. Both they and Rowen saw Nox die that day. Then, he only tells Doleon the remaining story of the true monarch’s death. Later on Rowen learned of a conspiracy surrounding the Dreamers Diamond, its guardian being deemed inadequate by extremists who’s solution was to kill Lux. But of course, that’s not the way things went. He sent Nox’s most loyal knights, including himself, to the base of operations to tear it all down, forever full of bitterness. Clearly, though, only one of them had learned their lesson since then. Because now, Lux has abandoned all that, all they know and all they must do, for some alien that was trying to kill them all!

It wasn’t fair.

Doleon doesn’t press any further. He just continues speaking. In fact, he’s here to offer Rowen help with all this. For you see, he’s here to take Kieran back. Restrain him, put an end to all that he’s done. What would he do to him? Oh, that’s not important. What’s important is that you, this kingdom, would never be met with the danger of his presence ever again, and both him and I will be out of your hair forever. It’s that simple! And you know what? If all this is happening then maybe…just maybe…that “monarch” was inadequate after all. Once, Rowen would’ve argued against it, calling it blasphemous and shooting him down where he stood. But they knew now. He…might’ve been right. But what evidence does he have of Black Deaths violent tendencies that Rowen can see? They’re still hesitant to believe him. Until they’re shown the scars.

Bright green scars, all across Doleon’s torso. “Who do you think gave me these?” he says. That sure was evidence, combined with everything else. Unthinkable. That monster needed to be stopped, or everyone here would end up just the same. So he agrees, then! He does. But a condition must be met first. Rowen, being a knight, takes oaths and promises very seriously. So they make him swear on it. Swear that this is the truth. Swear that he means no harm. Swear on his life that he’ll take Black Death away from here, never to return. Neither of them. He must SWEAR IT. Rowen will help only if Doleon swears to leave them in peace afterwards. Doleon smiles. He'd never dream of hurting this planet. He swears on it. 

He disappears. Rowen still doesn’t trust him entirely. They’ll keep an eye on him, he’s still just as much an invader after all. But if this is what it takes…at least Rowen knows when to be cautious, unlike Lux with Black Death. Or…Kieran. The two meet up more and more, sharing what they know. They try and devise when it would be best to eliminate Kieran from this planet. But Rowen doesn’t know Doleon has been watching for quite some time now. And still is. He watches Kieran and that mortal, acting like they haven’t a care in the world. It fills Doleon with such rage to see Kieran be so ungrateful! He’d have none of this if not for Doleon and yet he chooses to fraternize on some planet?! No, this is not his destiny. Clearly he needs to be reminded of his place. And that mortal. The one who uses Kieran’s true name, who has gained his trust. Oh how Doleon despises them. Kieran doesn’t belong to them and never will. They’re the reason he’s forgetting himself. The reason he thinks he’ll ever get away from Doleon. They have to go.

And all too soon it’s been a year since Kieran and Lux first met. Though a rather interesting memory, it’s still important to them. The two are happier than ever, and the deal they made to keep their people safe/fed is still going strong. In fact Kieran doesn’t believe he’s had a single nightmare since the two became a couple. Usually he’s haunted by them. It’s the strangest thing…(it’s not, really, it’s Lux. Lux always uses their power for others, but never themself. Once they were able to properly sense just how plagued his mind was by nightmares, they got right to extending its influence, as though he, too, were one of Lepidas own. He might as well have been now, to them.) They take it as an anniversary day of sorts, though by the end of it Lux can tell something is…troubling Kieran. There isn’t any use in or way to hide it now, so Kieran finally confesses. He’s happy. A bit too happy. Meaning trouble can only follow. Or, at least, that’s what he fears. He finally tells them specifically what happened to his brothers, and that it was in fact another one of his brothers to kill them all. The one he was once closest to. Doleon. So now he’s worried Doleon will inevitably return to take away what he loves the most. He apologizes, he’s dampening the mood…but Lux is glad he told them. They can work through this together too, like they always do. It’s been a year and this “Doleon” hasn’t come around. They have hope that he never will. The fact they’ve spent a year together now is a sign that Kieran deserves to heal. And if he does decide to show up? Well…well they’ll smash his stupid face in before he can even think of ruining things! They won’t allow anything bad to happen to this planet, or their people. Or to Kieran. Ever. Kieran almost didn’t have the heart to tell them Doleon isn’t so easily defeated. But even still they remain optimistic. Kieran loves that about them. Somehow he feels better, even if still worried. Maybe…maybe they’re right. Maybe he and his black arms really can thrive here, finally away from Doleon. Forever. Maybe Kieran is worthy of love, worthy of the warmth his sun gives him. Maybe he’s not destined to lose everything after all.  Rowen is growing tired of this. Tired of Doleon. After that its been a few months and STILL nothing has been done about his monstrous brother. Doleon insists the time will come…Kieran is still too close to the monarch, doesn't Rowen still care about them? Isn't that what this is about? And besides, it'll feel far better when executed at the right moment…far more relieving. More secure. Just trust him! He knows that brother of his better than anyone…really, better than anyone. Doleon uses this time to subtly heighten Rowen's anger, his hatred for Kieran, little by little. Framing it all in the name of justice. Earning the moths real trust, after all Doleon is the only other person here with common sense. Mortals never change all that much fundamentally, do they! At least they're good for one thing, its oh-so-fun to break them in the end…

Timeskip again, its now been basically a year and a half. After a moment together Lux blurts out that they want to be with Kieran! But in a…forever way! As forever as possible! Everything has felt so much more amazing lately and…Kieran thinks he knows what they're referring to. During his time here Lux had taught him how reading and writing was done and he was getting quite good at both. After that he enjoyed reading, poetry and history in particular. Anything he could get his hands on, take back to the comet. (He used writing to send letters and poetry back and forth between him and Lux.) He learned of many mortal traditions this way, including some kind of ceremony they did…the one that signified a forever bond. Deeper than a friendship. It was done with someone extremely important to you…and Lux wanted to do it…with him! They wanted to be with him. Only this time, Kieran could understand. He could now. It was love. They loved him, like he loved them. And he wanted to be with them for as long as fate allowed too. They'd do it, just the two of them. Somewhere special, somewhere the two of them enjoyed. There, they combined traditions from both places into a makeshift "ceremony." From Lux's side, the two wore special silks made specifically on this planet, mostly used for royalty or for special occasions (the royal tailor was one of the few people that knew of their plans, they'd been supporting the two from the start and was MORE than glad to help the two lovebirds.) And from Kieran's, a harmless bonding ritual. Veeery rarely done, but it gave the two involved each a feature of the other, and could only be done between two people with deep bonds of trust and emotion. He thinks it came from another planet but…such a thing like this has never been done for the black arms before. And he likes this one. Its the most suitable for the two of them. It gives Kieran monarch speckles on his muzzle and arms, and Lux small black arms markings, to which Kieran comments that red suits them. And Lux thinks he looks rather handsome. But he's barely changed! Lux knows that, he was handsome before then too. HAHA YES. HIS FACE IS ALL GREEN >:D Kieran just smiles. A genuine smile.

Doleon only watches from above, invisible. A mortal for a partner…disgusting! Kieran really is getting worse and worse the longer this goes on. He reports this to Rowen and it enrages them as much as it worries them. This must be it. The final step. He has Lux completely and the entire kingdom is in more danger than it ever was. He must be stopped. And he will be! Doleon was already convinced it was now the right time to take Kieran back but this? This just proves it further. Your monarch will understand in the end, its for their own good. Whatever they felt between them and Kieran is all pretend anyway. Impossible, even. Rowen…agrees. Yes. Impossible. Rowen may stand down tomorrow. Doleon will take Kieran and leave.

Then everything can finally go back to how its supposed to be. Everything can go back to what is expected. Rowen can go back to guarding and upholding what should be. Rowen won't have to think about it anymore. It isn't selfish.

Neither Kieran nor Lux could've known that once their happiest day was over, the worst one would come the day after. After talking with Lux about their planet again, (he thinks more people are beginning to see he means no harm…is there a way he can truly solidify it?) he leaves for the black comet to watch over his own. Ever since he arrived, his comet has been orbiting Lepida. Had he decided to chain it down here, it would've slowly begun to corrupt the planets ecosystem, so he and his black arms found their own way of getting down here when need be.

Meaning when he felt a terrible rumbling force tether itself to the ground below, cold dread immediately ran through his body. It couldn't be. It couldn't be him. Kieran was so sure. Not him. Not now. Please not now.

He left the comet. There was another one outside.

Kieran rushed down along with his army of black arms. His looked different from the ones invading. He ordered some to defend this planets people, others to fend off the other black arms, and the rest to follow him. He had to get to the palace. He knows Lux can fend for themself but he couldn't bear the thought if-

He's stopped. Blocked by that knight, Rowen. He attacks, but Kieran doesn't attack back, only defends himself. He doesn't order his black arms to attack either. Until eventually, nothing ceases, so Kieran summons a purple void of energy and pulls something out from it : a scythe made of pure shard energy. It seems to shock Rowen a bit, but they stand their ground. They know this is him. All part of his grand scheme. And they're not going to let him get away with it. Neither of us will. Kieran stops to think who "us" is before…

"We won't fall for your lies, Kieran."

Kieran feels sick all over. No one else knows that name. Lux wouldn't have told anyone else, they wouldn't do that. They wouldn't…Rowen couldn't have known. The only other person alive who knows his name…is…the person who confirms his worst fears. His tone carries all the terror he feels as Rowen hears him speak for the first time.

"What have you done."

Kieran doesn't give them the time to answer, shoving them away and making his way to the throne room. Rowen stares for a moment before following behind. Lux is deep into a swordfight and by the looks of it, has been for some time now. Doleon uses a sparking electric sword he summoned. And yet it looks like Lux was the one to land a blow on him. Both his attire and fur have been slashed through, revealing the same bright green blood as his brother. Perhaps thats where the manic look in his eyes is coming from. The idea of being bested by a mortal. Lux turns, looking at the two behind them. Doleon's laughter takes them both out of their shocked state. Kieran whispers to himself, horrified. Black Doom. And at that moment Rowen feels he deserves to be killed here and now. He knew of Black Doom only in name, he couldn't have…had his rage blinded him so? If he thought about it now he could connect all the dots and…and it made so much sense and…

He'd allowed the true invader onto their planet. Helped him right in. Gave him information. Trusted him. Fought for him. This man had described himself under Kierans name. And Rowen believed him. All for a selfish cure to their own agony.

Doleon grins. If it isn't his dear brother! What a strange outfit he has on. Is it from his little love? Oh, Rowen too? Two traitors in one room, isn't that something! Lux instantly jumps to their defense, don't you EVER insult their people AGAIN! But is it an insult, really, if its true? Kieran betrayed him for you. And the moth? Oh, so easily deceived! Can they even call themself a knight? Pretty pathetic one, to have granted a way for him to walk right in! He really must thank them, though, it made the job all the easier! Good thing Doleon didn’t bring his comet over to this planet right away, eh? He’d miss all this if he did!

Rowen can’t decide on his words, stuck between addressing Doleon-Black Doom…or their highness. He hasn’t seen that look from them in so very long. Disappointment, probably beyond measure, as he deserves. Or should he look over at Kieran and-

They don’t get to do any of those things. With a “but you’ve worn out your usefulness” from Doleon, even Rowens typically incredible reaction time isn’t enough to save them from Doleon appearing behind them, and quickly hitting him with an electrical shock strong enough to kill. The body is left smoking on the ground, just like that. He looks directly at Lux, unable to hold back their emotions for this when they run over to Rowen. He adopts a mocking tone when he beacons them to come forward and fight again.

“Your move, your highness.”

He hovers away, presumably outside. Lux draws their sword and intends to go immediately, but Kieran stops them. He hadn’t even realized he’d done it for a moment. They can’t go. Please don’t fight him. This is Kieran’s fault, everything is his fault, him and his selfishness, now he’s put them and everyone else here in danger, he should’ve listened to his first instinct he should’ve…he should’ve saved Lux the pain that came with his existence. Now Rowen is dead Black Doom used him and people out there are dying and he can’t stand the thought of losing Lux too and…! They’re already hurt! They’re hurt because of him! They don’t deserve this! This is Kieran’s battle, not-!

Lux puts their hand on his face. It’s shaking. And yet they still look at him with such warmth. It became Lux’s battle too the moment that monster set foot here. He’s heartless. Kieran is not. Never let him make you believe otherwise. He doesn’t know you. They can defeat him. But Lux…Lux doesn’t know his power. Lux wasn’t there to see all he’s done, face-to-face like some kind of personal weapon. Kieran has seen it. He doesn’t know what he’d do if he saw Lux the same way. But he doesn’t have to know. Because they won’t end up that way. Black Doom is no more than an egotist playing god. They’ll be okay…there’s no talking Lux out of this is there. They confront him. They don’t give him the time to make some stupid remark. The two will not allow what they love to be ripped away from them. Not again.

There’s a battle until Doleon bores of it. Kieran is held back by two of the strongest black arms-his own black arms. Black Doom is controlling them. Kieran can’t regain control he can’t speak to them he can’t do a thing he-he looks up after hearing a weapon drop to the ground. His struggle to escape becomes more desperate, Black Doom has Lux in a chokehold. He watches Kieran’s struggle and just smiles. He takes his sweet time with the inevitable, poking fun at this relationship, berating Kieran, painting him as the monster he knows he is in front of Lux. With what little breath they have, Lux talks back. They know it isn’t true. And Kieran will never submit to him. Neither of them will. Doom laughs. This was always going to happen! Fated since before they were born, since before even the stars themselves. Kieran is already his weapon. And he will continue to be, once this oneee little pest is taken care of for good. He’ll even give the monarch a front row seat to their dearest’s will crumbling before their very eyes! It’s really simple…!

A dagger. Doom’s weapon of choice to kill, sent straight through Lux. All while looking Kieran dead in the eyes. He drops them like a ragdoll and Kieran is released, just so Doom can see him rush to catch them with that deliciously agonizing, yet incessant, shouting. He sounds worse than the one who just got stabbed! As if it would do any good. Oh how fun this is! 

Kieran holds them so gently in his arms, trying to find some way, any way, to stop the bleeding. He knew they would die one day, he knew one day he’d lose them anyway. The curse of immortality. But he at least began to hope that the two would get to see this through to Lux’s end. Be happy for as long as they could be. Live their lives by each other’s sides…forever. Only just yesterday had they promised that to one another. Only yesterday. He really wasn’t allowed anything, what was he thinking…? He’s sorry, he’s so so sorry. Lux, their voice and breath weak, leaning into Kieran’s touch, tells him not to blame himself. HOW COULD HE NOT?! THEY’RE GOING TO DIE AND ITS ALL HIS FAULT! ITS ALL HIS FAULT!! No, it isn’t. Kieran came around to peace. Kieran didn’t make this happen. No matter what Black Doom says, or tries to make you believe, don’t. Don’t let him twist the memories they’ve had together. Don’t let Doom twist you. That’s what they ask of him…that, and to keep living. If nothing else on their beloved planet survives today…let it be him. Could he do…one final thing for them? He’ll do anything. Kieran…he knows how to protect…important gems. Might they…entrust him with the Dreamers Diamond? He’s the only one that remains…that they trust enough for this. Kieran says that Doleon will take it, what could he do about…! But Lux assures him. It’ll be okay. He almost can’t reply, but when he does, he swears to guard its power with his life. The way he couldn’t manage to do for them. With their remaining time they do three things. They recite an odd string of words, weakly grasping to Kieran’s hands, to transfer guardianship of the Diamond. They thank him…and make sure their final words to him are “I love you” when he plants a gentle kiss to their forehead. Kieran becomes aware of all the blood once he notices their chest had finally stopped moving. 

He lays there, clinging to the body. Though only one is dead, both are hollow and lifeless. Both are covered in golden blood. Kieran doesn’t even turn or respond when Doom speaks again. 

“Well, that was entertaining and all,” he says with sickening nonchalance in his tone. “Such drama! But I’m growing bored now, and I want to get to the good part.”

Doom orders Kieran’s black arms under his control to take him back to his own comet. (“Make sure he has a good view of the planet” he specifies.) As they try to drag him away, Kieran almost mindlessly clings tighter to the corpse of his partner, before realizing just how pointless it would be and allowing his body to give up entirely. He knows Lux told him not to let Doom get to him this way. They swore to Doom that Kieran would never submit to him. But he simply couldn’t. His mind was elsewhere. His body remained in shock. He couldn’t do anything. He’s dragged back, and his black arms not now under Dooms hivemind sense his return, following back. Kieran is left on the ground, covered in blood and his own pathetic tears. Almost as if this entire past year and the half had never even happened. As though it were all one big dream he was doomed to wake up from. After the two black arms Doom took control of are brought back to him, Kieran’s comet is pushed out of orbit and he can’t force himself to get up. Lepida is destroyed. All its beauty and everyone on it. Just so Doleon Black Doom could have another fresh target. It was…all over now. Just like it was always going to be.

As for everyone’s aftermaths! Doleon took many treasures and trinkets from the palace before running into Lux, so he has more of those now. He even took the Dreamers Diamond, what a fool that monarch was for thinking extending its guardianship would do a thing! ……….Right? Whatever. Doleon also took some of the corpses of the people from this planet and used their dna for his own black arms (creating what eventually evolves into the winged ones we see in shadow 05, just slightly different.) He likes to take them on his little visits to his brother.

Kieran never spared a planet again. For time he wasn’t even aware of, nor could calculate, he just kept doing his routine. He pushed his body and mind well past their limits, not once thinking about any of the things he was doing. Until one day in particular, the scent of blood woke him up. The scent of blood and the bodies piled around him and all the destruction that surrounded him for miles. Everything was gone. And he was the cause. He was drenched in blood. He was no longer the man Lux fell for. He never was. He never was. Lux would hate the real him. They should’ve. They would. They do. He can hear them. They’re ashamed of him. They fear him. He can hear Doleon. He can hear Lux. They hate him. He deserves every bit of it as he lets out his cries of agony and pain. He deserves to lose it all. He deserves to lose everything. Was it even real? Did he ever have it? He needs to know his place. He wakes up back on the comet. He’d finally passed out and his black arms have been…caring…for him? As best as they could understand the concept of care. Was it because he was their hive leader? 

Or…was it because they could feel his grief? Was it because…they were grieving them, too…?

His soft and foolish heart kept all the things Lux had given him, hidden away deep in his corners of the comet where no one else could go. He couldn't part with them. The last clear, untainted memories he had of them. Also, he's sickened by Doom's newest black arms. Doom, who called them all weak, only to use them for evolution. Make a mockery out of them. Unfortunately, Kieran saw the benefit to having winged black arms. But he refused to use the same source as Doom. He sought out a different winged species…after all, wasn't he no better? No. So doing the same meant nothing. No more attachments. No…no more attachments.

Who's going to tell him about Eclipse.

Lux had woken up too. Not back on Lepida, but in a near exact replica. The spirit world. Illuminas afterlife. Rowen was the first to approach them after getting through an entire planets worth of worried spirits. He doesn’t give them a moment to speak, for he feels he must apologize. It fixes nothing, nothing at all, but he unfortunately cannot do anything more. He deserves no forgiveness, he allowed his rage and foolishness and hurting to blind him, and it cost the lives of the entire kingdom, what he swore to protect in the first place. What he was doing this for. He cannot be forgiven. But he must at least let his monarch know that he meant no harm. He never meant for it to turn out this way. He…wanted to keep them safe. He thought they were in danger along with the rest of the kingdom. They have failed their duty as a knight. They’ve failed Lux. They’ve failed Lepida. They’ve failed Nox. They’ve failed at everything. Lux simply takes his hands. Black Doom manipulated him. Manipulated him through all the problems Lux hadn’t noticed or bothered to ask about. They’d grown so far apart since they were young…since that day. Rowen was suffering then, too. If anyone has failed, it’s Lux. Failed as a monarch to Lepida, and failed as a friend to Rowen. And now everyone has to pay the price for it, for their selfishness, for what they chose to chase after when it was…unacceptable. No, no, it made Lux happy…happier than Rowen had seen them in a long time. And now they know Kieran hadn’t meant harm, so the foolish one was still Rowen!  In reality, it’s neither of their faults. Not fully. It’s Doleon’s. But neither of them can help the idea…

They also get to reunite with Nox in this afterlife, who finds the two in the middle of their “it’s my fault not yours” debate. Nox, who the two both have such fond memories of, who the two have missed more than anything. Now right before them again. Nox, who’s had more than enough time to reflect on so many things. They were as reckless as they’ve always been (<- known for typically following the rules even when they hated them, bound by the sense of tradition) they’re so sorry, for leaving the two that way, so abruptly. They’ve missed Lux and Rowen just as much as the two missed Nox. Oh Illumina, look how much Lux has grown…thats still their baby sibling!! Their baby sibling that they taught to sword fight, taught so many other things, spent so much time with when the two were young. They’re so happy to see them again, even if…like this. The three talk about all that’s happened since then, and why the entire planet is here now. It’s. A long story.

Eventually, Nox learns of Lux's love and is so proud of them for being brave enough to break tradition like that. They would've never...been able to do that then. They would try now. Did Lux notice them glance over at Rowen just now? Oh, they know…Lux has known for a looong time. But they won't say it just yet. They need time, like Lux and Kieran did too. Then maybe…

…Something hurts deep in Lux's heart. Only now do they realize they might never see Kieran again. Is it…still okay to keep hoping? Would it make sense to? At least here, they have their big sibling, who will do anything they can to try and comfort them. Its so nice to have back again…the three can be there for each other now. Like before. For each other and for their kingdom. Surely nothing more can go wrong now…?

Fast forward years and years later (this arc is still not entirely built upon so bear with me for this one,) something is causing afterlives to merge with the mortal world, taking their spirits along with it (all except for the guardian bros Void, of course, theres nothing to merge.) This brings down the gem gods, primarily, but also Lux, Nox and Rowen are here from Illuminas afterlife meaning they get to meet the doom bros, team dark, and Sonic who's also involved. Doleon wants to use this chance to try and take over/destroy even the realms of other gods! But when he discovers that mortal who dared try and fight him has returned? Ohhh now its personal. How are they back? HOW COULD THEY BE BACK? HOW ARE THEY STILL. STANDING! WHAT A STUBBORN LITTLE PEST! HE'LL JUST HAVE TO KILL THEM AND EVERYTHING THEY LOVE AGAIN! There's no escaping Black Doom and living to tell the tale. THERE JUST ISN'T! Its pretty much on sight when Lux and Rowen see him again, and it doesn't take long for Nox to catch on, with the story the two told them when they arrived to the afterlife. The destroyer of their home! The reason for the suffering of their people! The deceiver. Mark their words, they will do everything to stop him. All three of them will.

So the doom bros meet literal gods, important parts of their past ESPECIALLY Eclipse's (if he's a genetic copy of his creator…and the two of them both have these spots that look a lot like the monarchs wings…then…but how…? Lux is curious too but thinks they know the answer. The bonding ritual! It seems its made Lux and Eclipse connected in a way too…) and have to help stop Doleon. again. Alongside the gem gods who recognize this threat as…connected to their long lost friend? Sonic and Eclipse go super in this story and Lux gets to see Eclipse's wings also. It gets them all teary eyed…that, along with the fact that Sonic and Eclipse remind them so much of…themself and Kieran. They'll figure it out, but along the way Lux can give them little hints and teases here and there…Its also in this story that Lux finds out Kieran has died. Finds out what he's been up to, what became of him…after they've gained Eclipse's trust, of course. He died…to protect another. Eclipse lets it slip that he thinks it was stupid, for Black Death to die for the likes of him. He's done nothing but fail him since then. Lux has heard this behavior before, and still thinks the same. Especially after spending time around Eclipse, seeing all he's capable of? Kieran wouldn't hate you. In fact they're sure he loved him. And still would. Eclipse doesn't know if he can…no. Not the time. Theres more important things to be thinking about right now (trying to change the subject.) The point here is they make me insane and so do Shadow and Nox and also Terios and Rowen. Okay? Okay

And 10,000 words later we have the basics of the kierlux/lux/rowen/nox/lepida story stuff. Hooray! I'm obsessed with them all forever, receive my brainworms.