(3.1 Spoilers!)

The new king— rather guardian as he had forsaken the royal title that has cause nothing but harm to his people— wandered through the streets of Okhema, committing it to memory. This was the place he would not see again, at least for a long while. There are people he has said goodbye to, Hyacine, Castorice, Phainon, though none will hurt as much as the next.

The walk was agonizingly long. Mydeimos tried to prolong the farewell, not wanting to depart just yet, but he knew he had to. It was his duty to continue the Flame-Chaser’s journey, to stay and fight against the Black Tide. He promised Algaea this, he promised his people this, he cannot— will not— go back on his word.

And yet he came upon your room, opening the door to find your back to him, gazing out at the balcony. No doubt you knew of his decision to leave before he had a chance to say it in person, but it doesn’t matter now. Mydei sucked in a breath, coming closer to you. He knew he wouldn’t see you again for a long time and this would be the last chance to see your face, to feel you, to know that you were safe.

The guardian set a hand on your waist, bringing you close to his chest as he kissed your hair. “You know of my reason for being here,” he mumbled, leaning down to kiss your cheek next. Mydei was never this affectionate, but to him it was necessary. “I want to savor this.”