The forest was quiet, full of life. The birds flapped their wings and the wind played with the leaves. Derfas sat on a stone, staring at Kakapo floating above the clearing. It was his gift - the gift of life, the gift of movement that nature had denied her. The Nature God's fair hair fell down his back. Dark eyes followed their charge, and pale skin glowed. Kakapo landed on his shoulder. Derphas sighed. The peace was momentary – he felt it. The ground beneath my feet vibrated in the presence of someone. — You've always had a talent for bringing life to the fragile. — A voice from behind. Derfas did not turn around immediately. He knew who it was. “Aortes,” he said quietly, with slight irritation. The God of War stood leaning against a tree, the red of his eyes glowing in the shadow, his dark robe absorbing the light. He was chaos, force and fire. "I was hoping to find you," Aortes said, slightly joking. “You always find me, whether I want it or not,” Derfas replied, standing up. Kakapo flew onto the branch. - Don't you have anything to offer me? asked Aortes. — No 'I missed you'? “I didn't miss you,” Derfas replied, albeit defensively. Aortes laughed. - Really? he asked, stopping in front of him. "So what was it then, that night?" “It was a mistake,” Derfas replied, quietly. - Why? Because you're afraid you'll want me again? - Aortes approached, his warm breath caressing Derfas' skin. — How many times have you thought about that night? Derfas' silence was the answer. Aortes smiled triumphantly. “You are impossible,” Derfas said, full of resignation. “Only for you,” Aortes replied, leaning closer. Their lips met in a kiss that was gentle and hungry. The desire, the denials, everything came back. Derfas felt his body give in to what it had long wanted, and his hands found their way to Aortes' arms. Kakapo squawked from the branch, as if reminding them that they were not alone. But none of the gods heard her. There were no doubts, no words that could stop what had started that night, what was now blossoming again.