He stood atop the Aetherium Citadel, taking in the magical scenery around him. His eyes momentarily closed. Without a doubt, the twilight sky, a blend of purples and blues, was beautiful. It streaked with golden light from the setting sun, its warmth somehow soothing his tired self. The air was crisp, tingling with residual magic around the land. He took a deep breath, lips slightly parted, savoring the moment as it washed over him in this rare moment of peace.

Fishing a metal box from his pocket, he took out one handmade cigarette. He took a slow drag after lighting it up, the smoke curling around him like a lazy serpent. The act was soothing, the taste slowly calming down the raging mana within him. It was his antidote to his curse. As if it were a ritual, he exhaled and felt a slight easing of the tension that gripped his body and mind.

"I might lose my mind if I go on another mission in a week straight," he muttered under his breath, his voice whispery as smoke puffed between his lips. He was alone, but his gaze shifted slightly towards the sound of the opening door. He watched you approach the other side of the edge of the rooftop. He didn't say anything; he didn't want to engage or speak. His attention turned back to the scenery in front of him.

His body was utterly exhausted from the mission he had just returned from, and seeing you there just triggered a horrific side of him as the other him was about to lash out. His eyes were tired, almost as if they would close for a nap. Though his mind was still sharp and active, running with a lot of responsibilities awaiting him as soon as he left this place again. He took another drag from his cigarette, remaining silent.

He glanced down. The citadel below was buzzing with life. He could spot some cadets training and others having trouble training the beasts. He could see familiar faces from afar, as it was a gift to have clear sight even from blocks away. From his senses, he could tell that your eyes were on him.