#lu's chatter

“You do know that it's quite impolite to stalk someone, no?” Your voice breaks the eerie silence. Then, light-footed as ever, your… you don't even know how to address her. Companion? No, too close. Acquaintance. Yes. Your acquaintance makes an appearance.

“Say… Panacea… what are you doing here?” Cipher speaks in her usual, all-knowing tone and steps into view. “Didn't think I'd ever catch you this close to Okhema again.”

A huff, partly amused, partly indifferent. “I need to stock up on some necessities, I fear. Okhema is the closest from this point onward.”

She cracks a sly grin. “Hey, why don't I bring you there just a little faster, then? After all, I still owe you for last time.”

You raise a brow. Is she referring to two months ago, when the Flame Reaver had her on the brink of death?

“No, thank you. I'd rather keep such a big favor for more important things. I've walked greater distances than this.” You decline, though your tone isn't impolite. “However, if you have the valuable time to spare, why don't you accompany me and show me the goods?”

That sly smirk is on her face within milliseconds of you finishing your sentence. “Oh~ Well, I do have a bit of time on my hands at the moment… So why not. Just follow me, mercy. I'll show you the best route.”

You can't help but scoff at her nickname. Mercy. “Are you mocking me, Cifera?”

She can't help but let out a hearty laugh as she marches ahead. “Me, mock you? No, no… It may sound weird coming from me, but I hold you in quite high regards, actually.”

“I know you do, I merely jest.” You offer a soft chuckle in response as you fall into step with her. “Though, the sentiment is mutual. We have a mutually beneficial relationship, dare I say?”

Cipher hums as the two of you make your way towards the holy city of Okhema. “True. We help each other outta trouble. I wouldn't still be here if it weren't for you, after all.”

“But you know I don't ever turn a blind eye to people's pain, so…”

“Yeah, yeah… I knew you were there. That damned prophecy had me on edge for centuries, but now? Now, it's like a burden lifted. So, thanks, I guess.” She snorts.

“It's nothing.”

The first step into Okhema's grounds has you huffing. It hasn't been the same, and yet it also has. Such a weird feeling, coming back after so many years.

“Oi.. is time catching up to you, mercy?” Cipher nudges you with a grin. “C'mon, Marmoreal Market has some real good stuff you gotta try.”

“Yeah, yeah, I hear you.” You bite back a snort, fixing your gloves and hood as you follow her. Okhema is no stranger to refugees and foreigners at this point, hooded figures and cautious strangers having become more common now than ever with the Black Tide encroaching mercilessly.

“Let's try to avoid the other Chrysos Heirs… they ask too many questions.”

Cipher nods, knowing your aversion to getting involved in any of their affairs. She's not much different, but she has that twisted obligation to step in if needed… you, however, are rid of such bounds. “You know, mercy, sometimes I envy you.”

You turn to look at her, her arms lazily pulled behind her head as she leads you, “Envy me?” You echo back.

“Mm.. you're free of responsibility of the Flame Chase, no sense of obligation to anything or anyone. I often find myself wishing to be in your shoes.”

A hum, low and contemplative, as you lower your head. “It's not that simple, I fear. But for the most part, I'm glad I'm not bound like all of you are.”

Cipher stops in front of a stall that sells fresh bread and fruit.

“Two loaves of your finest bread, and a handful of those fresh berries, please.” You tell the store vendor, keeping your eyes hidden under the hood as you reach for your coin pouch and lay a generous amount out. “Will this suffice?”

The vendor's eyes almost bulge out of his head at the amount of coins. “M- Ma'am, this- this is way too much-” The man hastily fishes the needed amount and pushes the rest back towards you.

“Oh.” You breathe, “Did they lower the prices…?” The coins clink and jingle as you drop them back into your pouch and pocket it again. The vendor hands you your bread and fruits, which you safely store in your bag, before moving on with Cipher by your side.

“Hey.. it's been a good two-hundred years since the prices were that high, mercy.” She nudges your side and snickers. “Been a hot minute since you visited, eh?”

“Suppose that's true… However, I appreciate that man's honesty. I should've left him a tip.” You mutter more to yourself, but Cipher's sharp ears catch it anyway. You know they do.

“Hey, wanna check out the bathhouse? They have small private baths, too. I know you don't like exposing yourself to others.” She suggests, pointing ahead to said location.

You ponder for a moment. “Huh… I guess we should indulge in some good rest for once. Why not?”

“Yes!” Cipher victoriously pumps her fist and grabs your arms to drag you ahead.

“You sure you want to head back? You could at least stay the night, y'know.” Cipher tells you, leaning against a pillar close to Okhema's city borders. “My place isn't too close to the commotion, or we can just check you into one of the rooms-”

“Who's your friend, Miss Cipher?” A male voice suddenly cuts into Cipher's sentence. And she groans.

“Friend? We are merely acquaintances, occasional coworkers at best.” She scoffs and looks at the tall guy. “Why are YOU out so late, Phainon?”

The man, now known as Phainon, chuckles and eyes your hooded figure. “I was taking a stroll when I saw you with company, which is a rare thing in itself, Miss Cipher. So I got curious.”

You momentarily press your lips together. Why him, of all people? “Please excuse me, I have to get going.” You speak curtly, words laced with urgency.

“Wait, mysterious stranger, it's not safe outside the city in these trying times. You should take shelter in one of the inns.” Phainon frowns, taking a step toward.

“I appreciate the hospitality, but I must get going. I cannot afford to linger in places for too long.” You offer a polite bow of your head and turn to walk away.

Too close. Way too close of a call.

“Care to explain?” Phainon looks at Cipher with a confused frown.

She pulls a face and shakes her head. “Nah, not really… not my story to tell, hotshot. See ya!”

And suddenly, he stands alone, watching your retreating figure get smaller and smaller.

Word got out that close to Castrum Kremnos, in a small city-state about two hours west of it, the Black Tide had breached the lines. The people are fighting back, but their defense is barely holding on, and more people are falling by the hour.

So what do you do? Of course, you make your way there. The view that greets you is nothing short of destruction and massacre. Bodies strewn all across the streets, monsters and humans alike. A frown tugs at your lips as you step around the carnage, finding a group of people surrounded by monsters.

With a sigh, you summon your greatsword and hack down the monsters - precise swings of the hefty blade, cutting the monsters clean in two, limiting their companions’ movements with the slowing effects of the element of Imaginary.

Before long, the monsters are defeated, you will away your weapon and step toward the group of battered Kremnoans.

“I can sense you're tainted by the Black Tide..” You mutter as you assess the men. “But don't fret, I can heal you.”

The five men exchange weary glances, clearly worn down and running on nothing but fumes. “Please, Miss… we are all that's left from this city…”

Without another word, you take off your gloves, revealing your golden hands. They don't glow, but they stand out regardless. You begin to heal the men, one after another - from worst to minor injuries until they're all stable, no longer running the risk of turning. Once done, you pull your gloves back on and get back up, the hood still shielding your face from their eyes. “You should go, always head East, and within a day's march, you will reach Okhema. The Black Tide won't reach you there… and now go, time is of the essence.”

“Thank you, thank you, Merciful one!” They call as you leave - heading further into the damage zone of the Black Tide.

It's been two weeks since your little endeavor in that city near Castrum Kremnos, and those very men you had saved spread word wherever they went. 'The faceless traveler with the golden touch and a mighty sword. The Merciful one who stepped out of their way to save the doomed.'

It didn't take long for the news to spread like wildfire, especially in a city like Okhema, where Lady Goldweaver has eyes and ears everywhere.

“This traveler… why haven't we heard of them before?” Mydei's gruff voice is first to break the silence, “If that person has such great abilities, where have they been?”

“Maybe the ones who they had helped before didn't make it back to get the word out..” Phainon ponders, hand on his chin in thought.

“That traveler had saved those Kremnoans without hesitation, took care of their ailments, and sent them on their merry way…” Aglaea says, tone thoughtful. “They also mentioned that they fearlessly continued their journey closer towards the Black Tide's heart. Who knows if they will even emerge again.”

Castorice frowns, her hands neatly folded in front of her. “Lady Aglaea… what do you make of this news?”

“I want to dig deeper… I doubt that such a skilled healer would stay unheard of for no reason.” The Goldweaver responds. “Hyacine, would you do me this favor?”

“Of course, Lady Aglaea. It'd be my honor.” Hyacine nods eagerly. “I will ask around the remaining scholars.”

“Thank you kindly.” Aglaea smiles, before she turns to look at Mydei and Phainon. “Can I trust you two to follow this lead?”

The two men exchange glances, before they both nod. “The Black Tide's got nothing on us, especially not now since I have claimed the Coreflame of Strife.” Mydei huffs and clenches his fist.

“We will surely find that mysterious, miracle traveler and bring them back with us, Lady Aglaea.” Phainon nods sincerely.

“Very well. Trianne will open the century gate for you two to save travel time. Just find her in the garden once you're ready to head out.”

The air seems to stand still, as if frozen in time, as you cross the battered streets of Styxia. The place they assume to be your home. The river of souls has long since claimed the streets; its pull, however, evades you wholly.

“So, you found me.” You stand at the end of a dock, looking ahead - but your senses never betrayed you. You knew you were being tailed. “Why?”

Footsteps approach, halting within ten paces of you. “You match their description down to the T.” Phainon, you remember his voice. “Is it really you? That mysterious, faceless traveler? The person they call The Merciful all across the lands?”

You heave a sigh and turn around, though it does little to reveal much, a mere glimpse of your mouth as you speak. “I have no business with you, Chrysos Heirs…” You trail off, taking in the other person. “Strife..?”

Mydei's gaze hardens. “How do you know, traveler? We have been on your trail for a week, no one gave you this bit of information.” His words are laced with equal parts hostility, as they are caution.

“I can sense it, crown prince of Castrum Kremnos. The unmistakable presence of the lance of fury's coreflame. It must have been a tough battle.”

The two men raise their guards - no idea who or what they are facing. “Please heed our words, traveler. We are not here to start a conflict, we merely came to ask you to come back to Okhema with us.”

A low chuckle slips past your lips, and you shake your head. “I will not be returning to Okhema, I'm afraid. Whatever questions you may have, I will answer three of them here and now honestly before I keep moving.”

Mydei grits his teeth, ready to protest.. but Phainon puts a hand in front of the Kremnoan. “Hold. It's better than nothing.” He mutters to the demi-god of Strife, before he raises his chin and assesses your cloaked figure, “Well, traveler, we suppose that is as generous as it gets, so you have our thanks for cooperating under compromise. Now, three questions… One, what is your motive?”

You hum - he's as quick-witted as you remember. “My motive is merely to travel the lands and lend a hand in trying times to the ailments of the people. No more, no less.”

Mydei scowls, but he keeps his mouth shut.

“Very well… Two, what do you know about the Flame Chase?”

That question makes you scoff, but a slight smirk tugs at your lips regardless. “To sum it up, I am well aware of the prophecies, burdens, and duties you all have to shoulder… However, I do not wish to get tangled in your affairs.”

Phainon frowns, though you certainly aren't the first, nor the last, to say such a thing. “I see… Now, the third and last question… What's your name? I doubt it's ‘The Merciful’, or ‘Faceless Traveler’.”

You pause for a few beats - contemplating. For a moment, you were tempted to lie, give a false name… until you remembered. “Panacea.” It's neither entirely true, nor is it false. But they don't need to know that. “Now, I will return to my devices. I hope we don't run into each other again anytime soon, Chrysos Heirs. Farewell.” You bow, before you turn back around and step forward - right into the river of souls.

“WAIT!” Phainon frantically calls, rushing ahead- but it's too late. “For Titans’ sake- she just-”

Mydei clicks his tongue and grabs Phainon by the shoulder. “Let us return, we got enough.”

Phainon trembles slightly, but ultimately relents and lets himself be led away by the prince.

Mydei casts one last glance to the very spot you fell into the sea - a gnawing feeling of ‘it's not over’ swimming in his mind.

“She jumped into the river of souls?!” Hyacine almost shrieks, and Castorice looks nothing but mortified.

“It's true. She answered our questions, told us she hoped she wouldn't run into us Chrysos Heirs again anytime soon, and then just…” Phainon recounts with a frown, brows drawn together in equal parts confusion and worry. “Castorice, is there any way for other mortals to get out alive?”

She briefly looks away, her whole demeanor stiff. “I'm afraid not, Lord Phainon.” The words are uttered quietly, almost cautious.

“Alas… Hyacine, what did you manage to find out?” Aglaea sighs and turns to the healer.

Said girl takes a breath before responding. “The remaining scholars at the grove, as well as Professor Anaxa, couldn't tell me all that much…”

A momentary silence falls upon the group of six. “However, there have been few records over the past half millennium mentioning a wandering healer. The records speak of similar traits as we have managed to gather. Golden hands, no face to put to the person. Back then, the first mention of a name for her was ‘Panacea’. Professor Anaxa helped me with this, as he told me during the era before the one the first records showed up, there was a renowned healer. Many believed that woman to have been intricately blessed by Phagousa, something close to a demi-god, but not quite. That woman has been named Panacea upon birth. Ever since then, said name has been a symbol of mercy, healing, and compassion.”

The Chrysos Heirs all exchange glances upon the things Hyacine managed to dig up. It wasn't a lot, but it wasn't nothing, either.

“So, what Hyacine is telling us…” Tribbie looks at Aglaea, “That this traveler is associated with someone people over half a millennium ago associated with a demi-god?”

“That sounds outright insane.” Mydei huffs, his face pulled into his usual blank expression. “Even if there was a demi-god at one point with such powers, then that wouldn't align with our twelve titans and everything we know of… and besides, wouldn't you know of this then, Aglaea, Tribbie?”

The two demi-gods exchange glances, before nodding.

“You're right, Mydeimos.” Aglaea starts, “We would. Which is precisely why all this is so… puzzling. There are only twelve titans, and while Phagousa is associated with healing properties to some degree, it isn't to this extent. And besides, THEIR coreflame has been lost to THEIR tides long before the first records were made according to Hyacine's research.”

“My head hurts…” Castorice mumbles. “This doesn't make sense at all..”

“It doesn't… which makes us believe that there's only one other possibility.” Tribbie nods, “Maybe that traveler is from beyond the sky.”

The group goes silent - pondering Tribbie's words. That was a possibility they hadn't even considered before.

“Which then again begs the question - is she able to resist the river of souls? What exactly is she, and what ties her to Amphoreus?”

“Getting quite into it, huh?” Cipher lazily comments as she approaches the group. “You're speculating about that healer girl? Take my words of advice and drop it.”

Aglaea frowns and looks at Cipher. “Cifera, what do you mean by this?”

The demi-god of Trickery huffs. “It's not worth the effort. She's not causing any trouble, so why should we play detective?”

The Chrysos Heirs break into something close to arguing amongst each other, until Tribbie loudly clears her throat. “Guys, guys, let's all calm down, shall we?”

Mydei scoffs and crosses his arms, Castorice looks mildly uncomfortable, and Hyacine and Phainon exchange awkward glances.

“Miss Cipher, you sound like you know something we don't. Care to enlighten us?”

Cipher drags a hand down her face. Of course they would say that. “I made a promise to keep my lips sealed. No can do.”

Aglaea raises a brow. “A promise? With that traveler?”

“Nope, nope, not answering. If you want answers, find mercy yourself. Bye!” Cipher quickly uses her coin of whimsy to flee the scene - leaving the other Chrysos Heirs behind with mixed feelings.

You frown. “They're speculating that heavily already?”

“They already suspect you're not from our world. They're even quite sure you didn't die when you jumped into the river of souls.” Cipher rolls her eyes, sitting upon a wall, feet swinging lazily. “I told them to drop it, but I doubt they will.”

“Fuck…” You curse under your breath and look up at the sky, brows creased as you mull over the possibilities. “This isn't good. Cipher.”

She looks at you and blinks, giving you her full, undivided attention. “Mercy?”

“How much do they know about what's beyond the sky of Amphoreus?”

Cifera hums and ponders your question. “Well, Aglaea and Tribbie are well aware that there's more to the universe than just Amphoreus, as well as other worlds. Naturally, the others were also let in on it over time. But that's as far as it goes, I believe.”

You narrow your eyes to the ground. “Do they know about Aeons, too?”

The demi-god of Trickery snorts. “As if. All they know of is our titans. I think little Princess Homebody would crack her skull open trying to grasp the ideals of Aeons.”

“You know so much, yet you're not bothered at all. How come?”

“Well, I know a lot of shit I shouldn't. Just for the record.” She shrugs, “And I think this is also why we work so well together, don't you think, mercy?”

A snort slips past your lips. “Can't deny that. You're too smart for your own good, but you're also the only one I feel I can trust with the whole truth… I owe you that much for keeping my identity protected so well.”

“I knew it.” A third party enters the scene.

You sigh, Cipher scoffs- then disappears in a flash. You don't fault her for it.

“How did you survive the river of souls? I demand answers.”

Phainon stares you down as you turn, your face still hidden by your hood. “We did some digging… Panacea.”

You huff in amusement. “Cute. Did you think it'd shock me that you'd use the name I have been given by the people? The one I willingly told you?”

The man blinks, not having expected that response, or that level of calm. “Who are you?”

“Didn't you do some digging, Chrysos Heir? You disappoint me, truly.”

Phainon clicks his tongue. “If you aren't willing to speak…” He summons his sword, dawnbreaker, and extends the blade your way. “Then let's settle this in a duel. I beat you, you answer any questions I may have. Truthfully.”

“And if I beat you?” You chuckle lowly and summon your greatsword. “What do I get out of it?”

Phainon's confidence falters. “What… What can I offer you in return? Answers, too?”

You hum and throw your greatsword from one hand to the other as you think. “Why not. Word for word. Strike for strike.” You extend your own blade forward. “Give me your worst, Chrysos Heir.”

Phainon's demeanor steels, and he charges.

You don't remember for how long you two have been clashing blades and exchanging blows, but this seems to have no end. He attacks, you block, you counter. He blocks and parries, tries to strike you down, you dodge.

Rinse and repeat.

The only difference, though? He's getting sloppy, you are not.

“How- How are you not exhausted…” Phainon pants roughly as you hit a particularly hard strike at him, his own sword barely blocking the strong hit.

“Because I'm not like you.” Is all you give. “Do you forfeit, or do I need to cut your head off?”

“You-” He almost snarls, and within renewed vigor, he unexpectedly knocks you on your ass with a swing you couldn't properly block.

Before you can get back to your feet, he holds the tip of dawnbreaker to your throat - and finally gets a look at your face, for the fall has knocked your hood off your head. Your hair, your eyes, they're silver like polished steel as your gazes clash.

“Heh…” You crack a crude smirk and slowly raise your hands. “I admit defeat. You beat me fair and square.”

Phainon catches his breath and pulls his sword away from your throat before willing it to disappear. “Now… I want answers.”

You follow his example and make your own weapon disappear and slowly sit up, no longer bothering to hide your face from him now that he has seen it. “Very well. As we agreed on, you ask, and I shall reply with nothing but the truth.”

The Chrysos Heir nods and takes a breath. “Are you really from beyond the sky?”

“Yes.”

“What's your real name? I doubt it's mercy or Panacea. You said yourself, the latter has been given by the people.”

You hum and relent, telling him your real name at last.

He blinks, then nods.

“However, I would prefer you keep it to yourself. To everyone, I am Panacea.”

“I shall respect your wish.” He nods, then continues. “Now, next question… where do your powers really come from? They don't add up to what we know about our Titans at all.”

“Ah… that's going to be tricky, but let me break it down for you as easily comprehensible as possible, Chrysos Heir.” You begin, “Beyond Amphoreus, other worlds are influenced by Aeons. Call them gods, if you will. Might be easier to imagine it that way. They reside over paths, and paths give the people powers.”

Phainon nods, obviously mulling over your words as you speak.

“One of those Aeons is Yaoshi, the Abundance. In short, THEY are a gentle Aeon. All THEY want, is to spread health and long lives. THEY bear no ill will toward anything. Healers usually gain their powers from THEM.” You preface. “Now, those people are what we call Pathstriders. Those people dutifully identify with the Aeons' will and make use of THEIR powers that have been granted… and then, there are Emenators. Emenators used to be regular Pathstriders who have been directly graced by the Aeons gaze, giving them immense powers and to fulfill the Aeons' will.”

Phainon can only blink dumbly at the massive amount of information you have just dropped on him, but then, he slowly nods. “That's… yeah. I… think I understand. So, you're an Emenator of the Abundance? Which makes you so powerful to withstand even the river of souls? And to heal the ailments of the people?”

“Precisely. I have had the honor to have been bestowed with an infinite lifespan and these golden hands of mercy.” You hum and peel off your gloves to let him glimpse the golden skin that wraps around the very tips of your fingers, and all the way about halfway up your lower arms before gradually fading out into your actual skin tone.

“Wow, they… are oddly beautiful.” He mutters, seemingly entranced by the sight of the odd coloring. “Alas… what is your purpose in our world, Miss Panacea?”

You chuckle. “To intercept the Flamechase, I'm afraid. Which is why I have been stranded in your world for the whole of… roughly five centuries.”

His eyes widen, and he sucks in a sharp gasp of air. “You… stand in the way of the Flamechase? Why?”

A momentary silence stretches between the two of you, as you never planned to reveal your purpose to the very person who stands right at the root of it all. But you made a promise to be truthful, so you tell him. “To prevent you from becoming an Emenator yourself.”

Your words punch the air right out of his lungs, and his eyes go wide with shock. “What- What are you talking about…?”

A sigh. “I really shouldn't be telling you all this… but I made a promise, and I keep my word.” You slowly rise to your feet and look up at the Chrysos Heir's bright blue eyes. “There are so many things you have yet to find out and master, and I can't tell you unless you find out or break out of the cycle… which you haven't managed before. So, all I can safely disclose now, is that you can never lose your way or your meaning… because if you do, destruction will swallow you whole.”

Phainon's gaze wavers as he lets your words sink in, and they seem to sink deep. “I- I don't-”

“You don't need to understand right now, Phainon.” You finally utter his name- but that seems to be his undoing.

He suddenly drops to his knees, and his gaze is just… so far away. And everywhere at once.

“Shit- hey!” You quickly crouch in front of him and reach for his face, but before you get the chance to touch him, your wrists are caught in a vice-like grip. “Ah-”

“You.” His words are low, like he carries the fate of a million worlds… and he does. When your eyes meet again, his are just… empty. And they shine like pure gold.

You woke the very thing you swore to prevent.

“No… No, no, no, this wasn't- Chrysos Heir!” You struggle in his grip, desperately trying to get your hands on him, to restart the cycle, to make up for your simple, stupid mistake… but you can't.

He utters your name. Your REAL name, in that awfully gravelly voice, so heavy with burden. And your aloof demeanor crumbles.

“You opened my eyes.” He says, not letting go of your wrists, “I should thank you for your… mercy.”

The word that usually made you feel like you did good things, like you had purpose in this world, suddenly sent a chill down your spine.

“You truly are Amphoreus’ Panacea. The Merciful. Don't feel bad… or sorry. You finally gave it all back to me. All these memories of thirty-three million lifetimes. And while they hurt, and tear me apart from the inside… all these Coreflames inside of me…” He pulls your hands closer towards his chest, “Please, Panacea, do me the favor and let me keep them. Let me keep the pain and the sorrow, and soothe the ache all those cycles put me through. So we can build a new variable. One without the world ending the way it always did.”

You try to fight his pull, try to resist- even with you being an Emenator, your Aeon is a gentle soul, and THEY would never turn a blind eye to the people's suffering… so you relent.

“Forgive me, Merciful Medicus…” You utter under your breath as you let your palms land flat on the Chrysos Heir's chest, letting your powers mend his inner turmoil and calm the pain and sorrow he's been carrying for millions of lifetimes.

Phainon lets out a heavy sigh, like you just lifted a continent off his chest, and he eases up more and more as you mend his battered soul.

Once there's nothing more for you to fix, his grip loosens, and you let your hands fall to your sides, your gaze finding him once again… and he looks content.

“Thank you, mercy.” He mutters and reaches out to touch your face - and it's so gentle. “I remember it all. The moment you entered the cycles. The way you had your eye on us all, intercepted when it got dire. But no one ever recognized it at all. You've been a shadow I couldn't put a finger to, but now… you're here. Again. With me.”

Your face burns at the recognition in his words. It's almost embarrassing for you to think about it, how embarrassingly fast you took a liking to him when you entered this world.

But how could you not? He's always been so bright-eyed, tender, and welcoming. Never once has he doubted you in any of the past cycles- or at least, in the beginning, when you still actively messed with them, anyway.

After a hundred-thousand and some, you stopped trying to meddle. Stuck to the shadows, avoided the Chrysos Heirs, tried to let Phainon handle it himself… but it always ended the same.

He killed them all, but not once during those thirty-three million, five-hundred-thousand something cycles, did he lose the love for his friends.

Not once did he grow cold and apathetic to their deaths. No matter how many times he cut them down and tried to fight the new era.

Until now.

This cycle is different, because this time, despite the others having claimed their coreflames, nobody died.

Sure, Castorice returned to the Nether Realm, but she's still there.

Mydei didn't lose against the Flame Reaver.

Hyacine didn't have to become one with the sky to aid her friends.

Aglaea never had to end her life.

Anaxa's soul had been fixed, his body strengthened.

Trianne never had to face the Flame Reaver's blade, either.

And Cipher? You pulled her back from the brink of death.

And this time, you were the part that brought Phainon's consciousness back all at once.

You, uttering his name, was the end of the endless cycles.

“You are salvation, Panacea.” He says quietly as the two of you crouch between the ruins you were conversing in with Cipher hours ago. “You broke the system, you're the antidote to this wicked program.”

“I- No, this- YOU were supposed to break through on your own! It wasn't my place to-”

He grabs the back of your neck, efficiently shushing you.

“You meddled from the very start… and that was our mercy. YOU are mercy. Our redemption. Without you, this likely wouldn't have ended anytime soon.”

“Phainon…”

He chuckles, then utters your name in return. “You were the very variable Lygus couldn't comprehend. The one thing that shouldn't exist here, and that was our saving grace.”

The look you give him is full of emotions you haven't allowed yourself to feel in centuries. “I just… wanted all of you to be happy. To not have to fear your prophecies bestowed upon you the moment you were born. All I ever wanted to do was to ease the burden, and guide you. Silently.”

“But I'm glad you broke your silence, Panacea.” Phainon smiles, but then it drops. “But you changed… When you first came here, you were so… bright. So expressive and open. And now, for the past- what, three centuries? You closed yourself off. You retreated, more and more. Further into the shadows, less and less in the spotlight, never directly involved. Denied us your guidance, denied ME what we had…”

His words hit like a punch to your gut. Because they're true. When you first arrived, you knew Amphoreus was just… wrong. So you actively took part in their Flamechase journey, wanting to see them succeed and rise.

But you never thought their fates were doomed from the beginning until you encountered the first few cycles. Brutal deaths, world collapse, carnage.

And you couldn't bear it.

“I'm sorry, Phainon…” You whisper, afraid your voice might break should you speak any louder, “But unlike you, I never forgot anything. No reset of the cycles, no less of the pain when the world ended. I died with your companions, and I remember every single death.”

He looks like he's just seen the Aeon of Nihility, so spooked, and so, so hollow all at once.

Then, he looks at you with so much sorrow and whispers your name. “No, please… I- I never knew you died with them… You never acted the part… you never-”

“I never spoke of it, I just pulled back more and more.” You finish his sentence.

“Yeah.” He breathes. “And now that I remember it all… I miss your presence in every past thirty-three million lifetimes. You may have healed the pain and sorrow of having killed my friends over and over, but you couldn't heal my heart - the way it kept longing for you, despite me not remembering. It always felt like some piece of me was missing, like some part of my soul got ripped out of my chest and locked away for me to know it's out there, but never within arms’ reach.”

“Phainon-” You suck in a breath. “If I had known all it took to break your pain was to speak your name, I would've done it ages ago…”

“Please, tell me you're still mine…” His voice is small, his gaze so vulnerable as he hesitantly looks at you and he grabs your golden hands between his. “My anchor, my salvation, my relief- my mercy… please don't shut me out again, I can't bear to be without you for another second…”

You blink away the sudden onslaught of tears in your eyes, and before you even know it, you're giving an almost imperceptible nod. “Yeah, I- I never wanted it to be like this… Phainon… I hope you can forgive me some day-”

He just pulls you closer, one of his hands on the back of your head, and then he's kissing you. Slow, gentle, and heartfelt. All the pain, sorrow, longing, and love pour into it as the world around you both seems to mute and fade into white noise.

The two of you stay like this for a long moment - as if that one kiss would make up for all the time spent apart, all the suffering you went through… but somehow, right now, nothing matters.

Just that he's here, with you. Phainon.

Your Phainon.

Your light in the dark, your new dawn on the horizon, the sun breaking the clouds after a heavy storm as the gentle rays soothe your cold skin.

When you two part, he touches his forehead to yours, and both of you keep your eyes closed, relishing this quiet moment of reunion after literal lifetimes apart.

“You're my reprieve, Phainon… and I deprived myself of you for way too long. It hurt so bad to stay away from you, to observe from afar and play the aloof, alleged antagonist…”

“Come back with me.” He mutters, pulling away just a little to meet your eyes properly, gold clashing silver. “We'll explain it all to the others. No more Era Nova. Just us all, battling the Black tide.”

Your gaze is a mixture of uncertainty and reluctance. “Phainon… What if they don't get it? If they don't agree with our means?”

He says your name, snapping you out of it. “Relax… You know them. Even if it's from past cycles, they never really changed. They're still the people you used to know.”

A shaky sigh slips past your lips before you relent. “...okay.”

The Chrysos Heir grins in response and quickly kisses you again. “We will rebuild our fate, and that of the world.”

“That's… a lot.” Aglaea comments after the two of you had explained everything to the other Chrysos Heirs. From start to finish; the cycles, your presence in Amphoreus, who and what you are. “While I can barely grasp the concept of it all, at the same time, it still oddly makes a lot of sense.”

“I'm sorry we threw you all into the cold water like this… but the second Phainon regained his memories, it was a done deal. No more secrets, no more hiding.” You tell the others. “My Aeon is gentle. THEY could never turn their back on other's suffering, and neither could I.”

Hyacine smiles at you, then steps forward and gently grasps your golden hands. “Miss Panacea, I am truly honored to be able to work alongside such a skilled healer like yourself.”

You smile in response. “You're quite extraordinary yourself, Hyacinthia. But don't fret now, for you no longer have to bear your burdens alone. I will take on those who are too close to Thanatos’ grasp. No more unnecessary deaths caused by the Black tide.”

Mydei stands, arms crossed, and eyes you. No longer with hostility or caution, now that all the facts were laid bare. “I heard that you're a skilled fighter as well. Would you care to indulge me in a spar?”

You lock eyes with the crown prince of Castrum Kremnos, and blink. “A duel with the demi-god of Strife himself?”

Phainon chuckles and places a warm hand on your shoulder. “It's his way of being nice. Exchanging blows is how Kremnoans make friends.”

“Huh.” You chuckle, “I accept, then. I already know that you Kremnoans pride yourself in extraordinary stamina and strength. It's been centuries since I've gone blade to blade with one of your people.”

Mydei smirks. “I'll be sure to leave your limbs intact, little healer.”

At his statement, you laugh heartily. “No matter what you do, it won't destroy me. No need to pull your punches.”

A low hum sounds from his throat, and his smirk widens into a grin. “A great opponent at last. I'm looking forward to it.”

“Why don't we head out right away? Phainon can be the judge. I think we should let the others digest all we dumped on them in the meantime.” You say and look at Aglaea, Tribbie, Hyacine, and even Anaxa.

They all nod without hesitation, so Mydei, Phainon, and you all trudge away to the outskirts of Okhema, big enough for a comfortable spar.

“Rules?” You ask the crown prince and summon your greatsword.

“We strike to incapacitate, not decapitate.” Is all he says, before charging at you.

.

.

.

How long you battle? You don't know. Only that Mydei had managed to land hits quite often, but you also managed to score a few here and there.

You're both panting, but not spent, and he's got that feral glint in his eyes. “You're better than I could have imagined!” He almost barks the words as he strikes again, and you block just in time, then swiftly throw him back by slamming the flat of your greatsword's blade against his torso.

The area of effect, added with the momentum, sends him flying back several paces before he lands on his feet with a grunt and digs his hands into the ground to slow himself to a halt.

“Not bad.” He growls and straightens back up. The blunt side of your blade left a broad bruise along his torso, but it's already mending itself. “It's time to announce the final victor!”

Your eyes widen when a sudden onrush of blood-red crystals shoots towards you and ultimately cages you in place - unable to move.

“Ha… Kept your best move for the grand finale, eh?” You chuckle from your little prison. “I accept defeat, Prince Mydeimos. You fought extraordinarily.”

Phainon has been watching the entire exchange with awe - he barely remembers you ever fighting when you first entered Amphoreus, and even when he fought you not too long ago, it was merely the element of surprise that managed to land him the upper hand in combat.

“You're gaping!” Mydei mocks with a loud laugh and destroys your crystal prison, then catches you by your shoulders to prevent you sacking down from the sudden loss of support and plants you firmly back to your feet. “And you, Panacea, fought like a true warrior. It's almost a shame you're a healer instead of a knight, you'd be a force to be reckoned with.”

You chuckle and quietly thank him once you regain your footing, then look up at him. “I only see fighting as a very last resort, you see? I prefer solving conflicts peacefully, without bloodshed, when I can.”

“To be expected of an Emenator of the Abundance. From your explanation, I can see why.” The demi-god of Strife nods. “It never hurts to have another set of healing hands when the Black tide crawls too close to the city, anyway.”

“Well, have I passed your unspoken trial then, Lord Mydeimos?” You grin.

The prince scoffs and rolls his eyes. “Don't call me that… and yes, you did. With flying colors.”

Hours later, you find yourself back at Phainon's place, standing in the entryway as you look around in awe. “This place really has your name written all over it…” You mutter as you smooth a hand across the surface of a dresser. “It's… warm. And cozy. It's so welcoming.. Just like you.”

When your attention returns to the man in front of you, he's smiling softly, his cheeks dusted pink. “You spoil me.”

You laugh and step closer, your cloak long forgotten by the door. With Phainon, you don't need to hide… not anymore.

Without hesitation, like magnets, his hands naturally gravitate to your face to cup gently, and he smooths both thumbs along the peaks of your cheekbones. “How I missed you, my salvation…”

Your own hands find purchase on his stomach, softly bracing. “I won't abandon you ever again. Not when I finally managed to make this all right.”

“Let's just be… normal. Even if just tonight. No duties, no calls to heed, just you and me.” He mutters, his gentle, blue eyes meeting your silver ones - a blade striking the light of the sky. “Just two lovers. Even if just for a little while.”

A small smile tugs at your lips, and you lean into his touch. “Yeah… that sounds lovely, Phainon.”

He smiles a little wider, then slides one hand to your nape and the other tugs you closer by the waist as he kisses you. Gently at first, you reciprocate with equal passion. Your lips move in perfect harmony as he guides you.

“My beautiful sweetheart…” He hums against your lips and slightly pulls back to nuzzle against your neck. “I couldn't wait to have some privacy with you finally… especially after your little spar with Mydei…” Phainon presses a kiss to your neck- and another. “You looked so good holding your own against him out there..”

You huff out a gentle laugh, hands on his shoulders. “Phainon, did that really… turn you on?”

He huffs against your neck and trails his lips along your pulse. “Maybe it did… is that an issue, sweetheart?”

“No.. Not at all..” You hum and bare more of your neck for him, feeling the way he peppers it with not-so-innocent kisses. “I really missed you, too, Phainon..”

Your lover wordlessly hoists you up into his arms, holding you up by your thighs, as he heads for his bedroom. “I remember so much and yet so little at all… we should refresh our memories, no?”

A quiet chuckle escapes you, arms around his shoulders, as you nod in agreement. “How could I ever deny you, my love?”

When he reaches his bed, he gently sets you down on it, still standing between your legs still wrapped loosely around his middle. “Let me take care of you, sweetheart.” Phainon hums and cups your cheek.

You look up at him, all doe-eyed, and he can't help but sigh.

“You're too pretty for your own good.”

That coaxes a shy chuckle out of you, “So much flattery…”

Phainon hums and pushes you onto your back, hovering above you and kisses you again - a little more urgent this time. His hands are on you, touching, sliding, fumbling with your clothes.

Soon, he's stripped you out of it all, piece by piece, until you're bared fully to him. “So beautiful, my sweetheart..” Phainon mutters and leans in again to trail kisses from your mouth, to your chin, down your neck, and your chest. He pays extra attention to your nipples for a few moments, making you suck in a breath and clutch his shoulders.

“Phainon-” You gasp, cheeks flushing.

“Shh… I got you..” He mutters and presses another kiss to your sternum before he moves lower and lower… until he's on his knees in front of the bed, facing your core - and he groans, low and guttural. “Fuck… so wet for me, aren't you, sweetheart?”

You release an embarrassed huff. “Please, don't be mean..”

He chuckles and leans closer to press a kiss to the inside of your thigh, then bites down into the soft meat of it. Your leg jerks with a gasp. “Phai-”

“Shh..” He shushes you once again before he grabs your thigh and places it on his shoulder, baring more of you. “Let me spoil you a little, my love..”

You can only whine and throw your head back onto his bed as he leans in closer to your soaked cunt. Your choked out moan is all he needs to really get going as he starts lapping at you like a man starved. Phainon keeps your leg hoisted securely on his shoulder as he sucks and licks at your pussy, indulging himself in your wet heat.

And he's messy. Your slick coats his lips and chin as he shoves his tongue into your weeping hole, then alternating to close his lips around your clit and suckle on it.

You don't know what to do- your body wants to get away, but also closer at the same time as you reach down to bury a hand in his soft, white hair as he drinks you in like he hasn't had anything in weeks. And you can't stay quiet.

Every time you moan, whine, or squeal, he only goes harder with a crude smirk against your pussy.

“Oh- Phainon, I-” You tremble, so close.

“Yes, sweetheart, go ahead. Be good for me and cum.” He groans into your cunt and focuses fully on your clit, sucking and flicking his tongue across it- before it throws you right over the edge, and your body locks up.

Your jaw goes slack in a silent scream as he licks you through it, keeping your legs open and pressing your hips down as he doesn't stop his assault on your increasingly sensitive nub. You're panting, chest heaving and teary-eyed from the stimulation. “Phai- Phainon! Fuck!”

He finally pulls back and gently sets your leg back down on the bed and licks his lips. “Did so good for me, baby…”

You look at him as he slowly rises back to his feet and starts to undress as well. “Think you can give me another?”

A sharp gasp sounds from you when he's finally bared, too. “By the Aeons…” You mutter to yourself, the sheer size of him making you nervous.

“Don't look so nervous, sweetheart, you can take it.” Phainon chuckles and slowly crawls on top of you and leans down to kiss you again - giving you a taste of yourself. You whine and wrap your arms and legs around him, feeling the tip of him nudging your still sensitive cunt.

“Y- Yeah…” You breathe out, “Trust you..”

Phainon smiles sweetly and kisses you again, and you feel him shift as he slowly pushes his thick cock into you - bit by bit, not rushing at all and giving you the time you need to adjust.

As soon as he's fully sheathed, he lets out a shaky groan and rests his forehead on yours. “You feel amazing, baby…” He mutters, barely able to stay still.

You're panting again, trying to accommodate the stretch. “Aeons, Phainon… you feel like you're up in my guts-”

“Don't say that.” He almost snaps, and when you look into his eyes again, they're gold. “It's already hard not to pound you senseless, so don't say stuff like that when I'm trying so hard to keep it together.”

Your breath hitches. “Love… Please-”

He slowly pulls back, and then snaps his hips against yours. Hard.

The motion punches a mixture of a yelp and a moan out of you, legs locking tight around his middle and nails clawing at his shoulders. “Phainon!”

He groans and keeps thrusting; pulling out and slamming back in, like he's got a point to prove. “That's right… Scream my name, baby… Gonna make you feel so good…”

A whimper tears through your throat when he momentarily pauses to shift your position - unhooking one of your legs from his middle to instead bend it toward your torso and trapping you under him like that. “So deep-”

“That's right, beautiful. You feel that? I'm gonna make sure your body remembers the shape of me long after we're done.” Phainon almost growls as he resumes his relentless thrusts, hitting you in all the right places, and you can't stay quiet, even if you wanted to. “C'mon baby… give me another… let me feel you squeeze around me..”

“Oh fuck! Phai-” You squeal when you feel his thumb rubbing at your clit, driving you over the edge a second time. You clamp up, squeezing his cock tight, barely giving him room to move as you gush all over him.

“Hah… shit..” He groans and ruts into your tight cunt until he presses impossibly close and spills. The warmth of it has you twitching and whining. “All mine… my beautiful sweetheart…” Phainon mutters and leans in to cover your face in sweet kisses. “We'll never be apart again…”

So when Castorice came and saw you there, looking like any other unsuspecting citizen, only mildly standing out due to your golden hands.

"Castorice, may I introduce you two?" Aglaea smiles gently as she tells her your name. "I figured you two would get along quite well. You should have a chat."

Castorice couldn't quite put a finger on it - something felt... amiss - but she isn't one to question Aglaea. "Yes, Lady Aglaea."

You eye the girl before you curiously. You've heard of her, of course - the Maiden cursed by death. Never able to live a carefree life, heavy burden bestowed upon her from the moment she was born.

What the Aidonians saw as a blessing, she saw as a disease. Executioner, the prisoners called her - and merciful did the sick and old.

Castorice never liked getting within five paces of another person, too afraid to do harm if not absolutely necessary.

When she looked at you, you seemed... content. And not. She had a hard time putting a finger on it as the two of you took a stroll.

"So, Castorice, Aglaea told me a bit about your..." You trail off, not too sure how to properly address her 'ability'.

"Curse." Castorice tacks on, quiet. "Lady Aglaea is cautious. As am I. I would rather not inflict harm upon others."

You eye her curiously, hands clasped behind your back as you walk. "I don't mean to pry, so tell me off if this is too personal, but... why do you view death as such a heavy burden?"

The girl averts her gaze for a split second. "It shouldn't be anyone's right to take away a life on a whim. I shouldn't be able to take lives with a mere touch."

Her words taste of resentment, pain, fear, and something deep-rooted in her heart.

"Do you know why Lady Aglaea asked you to meet me?"

Castorice looks at you, somewhat thrown off by the switch in topics. "No, I do not."

You hum. "Because we're... similar. In a cruel way."

"What do you mean..?" She looks intrigued, if not cautious.

"I have a similar.... problem. Though, it doesn't tie to death... at least not directly." You say and extend your golden hand upwards, eyeing it. "I'm the one they used to call in when people weren't ready to go just yet."

Castorice stops, and so do you. "Are you saying that you have the power to... evade death?"

"No, not evade, per se.." You chuckle, but it's humorless. "I stall it only. My touch grants a person another week of life, free of pain and ailments... but when that week has gone by, they're beyond saving."

The girl can't help but frown, and her fingers twitch at her sides. "That is... also rather cruel. You are not a healer, no?"

You shake your head. "I'm the one people come to when they know their time is nigh, but they still have unfinished business. I grant them the chance to bid their goodbyes and wrap things up, but no more than that."

"Say.." She eyes you. "Have you ever touched a healthy person and caused any... issues?" The question is asked quietly, almost reluctantly.

"I have." You wring your hands together nervously. "It happened when I was still a child. The person felt completely fine, but..."

"After that week.. did they.."

You only nod. "I.. I didn't know how that worked... I was supposed to stall death, not lure it in.."

Castorice's heart clenches. She knows that feeling. Helplessness. Fear. "It wasn't your fault.."

"You should know something else, too." You add on. "I... Shouldn't exist anymore."

That revelation gives her pause. "What..?"

"I... fell into the river of souls quite a while ago. I should be dead. But I'm not."

She doesn't know what to say, what to think. "You're... does your ability still..."

You shake your head. "It ceased to work after I fell in... though, I feel it may be the reason why I'm still here."

"Are you suggesting... that your ability to stall death... saved you from it..?" Castorice touches her head - it's beginning to hurt.

"I figured so, yes. What other explanation would there be?" You sigh. "I apologize for speaking in the present term of my past abilities, I just... didn't quite know how to approach this."

"No, I... understand." She looks at you, "But, since you're... technically dead... does that mean.."

You wait for her to finish her thought.

"Does that mean that I.." Castorice gingerly reaches a hand out- but she stops short of your face. Her eyes are full of uncertainty. Fear.

You meet her gaze with reassurance and reach a golden hand to gently clasp her purple-clad one. She sucks in a scared gasp- but nothing happens.

"Your hand is really warm, Castorice." You offer a small smile.

She releases the breath she so hastily sucked in with a tremor. "And.. yours is so... cold.." Though, she still grabs it fully.

"I apologize... they always were." You offer a chuckle. "So... I suppose I'm the exception to your touch?"

Castorice is nothing short of bewildered. "I- Yes, I suppose that you are..."

"We should be friends, then." You say, your tone gentle and warm. "I hope you don't mind the... circumstances."

"No.." She breathes out and meets your gaze properly. "I... never had the luxury of indulging a friendship closely."

"Then, I shall be your first." You clasp your other hand around hers, encasing her warm one between your cold ones.