you take all of the pain away
The ensuing battles had not gone past his notice, but he had simply turned and walked away. Sikeax had not forsaken him, but she had left him just as she had abandoned her post and her duties. He could not watch her fall beneath Aithniel's blows, and he had no feelings regarding Volterra's challenge. He'd shed enough blood, given enough energy in the wake of Gaucho's death. Cera could give no more.
He only came when Aithniel's voice rang out across the sands, gathering her new flock. He trudged to the meeting with quiet dignity, finally able to see once more with how Mercutio had tended to his wounds. Speaking of...the Prince wandered closer to the grullo as he spoke, unable to hide the astounded awe on his cherubic face as Mercutio asked to become a healer. Maybe not permanently but...it was something. He was staying. Cera smiled and gently pressed his forehead to Mercutio's neck, his heart squirming pleasantly in his chest.
But he could not be silent in this meeting himself. His green eyes turned to Aithniel, the work of the forgers left open and aching with the completion of the temple. So he lifted his voice in the hush of the calming herd meeting, hoping to reach her ears.
"Whatever you ask of the Forger, Sultana, we shall accomplish. The keys have been outfitted, but any further work can still be prepared for. Furthermore, if any of you are flightless and are in need, let either myself or Maren know. We will make one for you as soon as we can." Then he dipped his head to Aithniel herself, respectful of her new position. "If you need anything of me, I will happily fulfill any role or task." But that was all he could offer her now. Cera did not know her enough to speak of loyalty or admiration. He was faithful to the land, to her father, but Maren had a point.
Leaders came and went.
Whether or not Aithniel would stay or not...only time would tell. Cera sidled closer to Mercutio and left the rest of the world to its upheaval.
Code: Time & Neo