"No."
Sekito's words hit me like a tidal wave, leaving me feeling helpless and desperate. I sat there, watching her take another sip of alcohol, her annoyance apparent in every gesture. The transformation from the composed and collected Sekito to this intoxicated version was jarring, and it made me realize just how much pain and burden she must carry as an Aeon.
Her clothing, so frilly and girly, was a stark contrast to the powerful being she truly was. I couldn't help but notice the absence of her earrings, making her appear more vulnerable and human. Her green T-shirt was translucent, revealing glimpses of her brassiere. It was a small, insignificant detail, but it somehow made her feel more approachable, like a regular girl.
"Please, Sekito," I pleaded, my voice quivering with emotion. "I beg of you, help us save Emovi."
She frowned, her slurred speech making it difficult to understand her. I could see the frustration in her eyes, a mixture of annoyance and sadness. It pained me to see her like this, so different from the strong and stoic Aeon she usually portrayed.
"What is it you need again?" she asked, her words coming out in a jumble.
I stood up, feeling the weight of the world on my shoulders. I knew I was asking for the impossible, but I had to try. Emovi's life was at stake, and I couldn't bear the thought of losing her.
"I need your help to save Emovi from Breakage," I said, my voice trembling with urgency.
As an Aeon with thousands of years of experience, Sekito must know something, some way to break the curse. But her response crushed any hope I had left. The Aeon of Breakage was clandestinely precise in secrecy, hiding his information so well that not even Devina's aeon could detect him. Sekito didn't know where to find Zerstörer, let alone how to save Emovi from his curse.
She downed another bottle of alcohol, her expression turning solemn.
"There's nothing I can do," she said, her voice heavy with regret.
I couldn't help but ask, "Why aren't human lives as important to you?"
Her gaze drifted into the distance, lost in memories of her long existence. She spoke with a mix of sadness and determination, explaining the fundamental difference between aeons and humans. To her, humans were fleeting, their lives mere blips compared to the eternity that aeons lived. She saw herself as a guardian of the world, existing to maintain balance, and couldn't risk countless lives for the sake of one person.
I understood her reasoning, and yet, it pained me to think that Emovi's life was not as valuable to her as it was to me. I wanted to argue, to plead with her to see things differently, but I knew it wouldn't change anything. Sekito had her reasons, and I had to respect that.
Sekito wasn't selfish, I'm the egotistical and selfish one here. She helped us so much already, yet, here I am with another request. I want her to help us, but I can't ask for more. If that is it, so be it.
"Thank you, Sekito," I said, my voice filled with gratitude and sadness.
"I appreciate all that you've done for us already. I won't burden you further."
With a heavy heart, I left the kitchen and made my way to the exit. The sight of the fish swimming in the aquarium reminded me of their freedom, a stark contrast to the chains that bound me to my mistakes. I knew I couldn't run away from my responsibilities. I had to find a way to save Emovi, no matter the cost.
Staring at the fish, I caught the smell of something enticing. I followed the trail of aroma. Leading me to the open back door.
Stepping outside, I felt the soft touch of grass below me. Their garden is decorated beautifully, with roses, spices, herbs, and flowers. In another spot is a solid rock pond. It had running water with a bunch of koi fish swimming around.
I always wanted a pond, especially one with a waterfall. I look over the pond, seeing lilies. Black and white fishes swam in the crystal clear waters.
I finally saw where the source of the smell came from.
Devina sat in front of a campfire holding a stick with a bag of marshmallows on her side. She is grilling marshmallows, late at night, looking dejected.
I approached her quietly and sat down next to her.
Noticing my presence, she handed over a stick to me and placed the bag of marshmallows in between us.
Grabbing a few out of the bag and skewering them, I hover them above the blaze. The bright yellow fire in front of me warmed my hands and feet.
I finally got to take a good look at Devina.
Her face is so delicate and soft, and her glasses were clear.