The now familiar sounds of giggles and amusement echoed within the long hallways of the temple, a sound previously unheard of before the little bundle of energy had been brought into their midst. The original purpose behind the child had long since lost its significance, a secret Elwin vowed to carry to his grave.

Elwin followed the sound of laughter, his heart racing as he anticipated the sight that awaited him around the corner into the gardens. His hand clutched at his chest, feeling his heart beat erratically against his ribcage, threatening to break free. He took a deep breath, steeling himself and his outward image before stepping out onto the garden pathway, the heels of his boots clicking against the stones that lined the way toward the fountain where the gentle splashing of water could be heard.

As predicted, there you were—the ethereal being that was the center of his everything—playing with the boy he had unintentionally gifted you. The child giggled and laughed loudly, flicking water innocently as you responded with gentle, playful splashes.

Elwin nearly dropped to his knees at the sight, half-ready to kneel and pray to you for blessing him with such a loving image. He swallowed thickly, his hands trembling as he kept them folded before him, stepping closer to you and the boy.

“My lord,” he murmured to catch your attention, his voice rough and already straining, “I have been looking for you everywhere. I was hoping to speak with you about my duties. My tasks have long since been completed since this morning…”