It was better this way.

The streets of Okhema were filled with life, the joy and laughter of the people overriding the constant struggle and feeling of impending doom that came with being humanity's last standing Citadel. In this maze of light and joy; the city, Castorice alone couldn't seem to grasp the concept.

Every moment of respite came with the crushing burden of death, the whispers of the condemned ringing in her ears and the kiss of eternal slumber in her touch. She refrained from touching anyone. She avoided flowers. And children.

"They seem to like you," she hummed as you reached out a hand to pet one of the colossal beings: a Dromas. For some reason, you never seemed to mind her presence, unlike most. Her smiles, though forever melancholic, seemed ever so slightly more sincere, more free around you.

To Castorice, you were like a safe haven. You never asked questions about her abilities and, when you did, somehow the burden felt easier to bear, as if she wasn't alone. You weren't afraid of her. Of her touch. Of the one thing that was forever forbidden — for your own safety.

Your recklessness was both puzzling and endearing, and Castorice couldn't tell whether you were doing it on purpose or not. But, in all honesty, it felt good to have a friend by her side, one who could look past the danger she posed and see the beautiful wings of the butterfly fluttering in her soul.