Doris
It was swelteringly hot in Lestos this fine spring day, like it always was, no matter the season. Amunet always thought Rhakotis had quite hot weather and unhospitable terrain until she found herself in Lestos; then her homeland seemed like paradise. She was no stranger to these cruel lands, as she often came out to help when large battles arose. It was so terribly close to home, and while she wished to help protect the *Whole* Empire, her home was most dear to her. That meant taking good care of her neighbors as well. She used to visit Velaris often, as well. She missed its mountains, lush greenery, and... As her mind broached a subject she'd rather not ponder, she refocused herself on the present moment. Velaris was well-cared for, anyway. It had little need of her. The lump in her throat dared not to recede, and she cursed herself for letting her mind wander so.

The middle of battle wasn't exactly the place for her to do her thinking. But this fight wasn't exactly *Challenging*, either. As was usual, Lestos found itself fighting off another raid of barbarians. She'd come to help this time because it was a particularly *Large* Raid group. By the time she'd arrived the battle had already been raging for a day and a half, with only the barest of breaks for sleep on both sides. The orcs and their walls were rather impenetrable, but the barbarians and their zeal were rather unending. As she whirled about, swinging both scimitars to cut down three or four foes at a time, she knew she could count on her orc compatriots to have her back. While she would never entirely understand their complete disregard for beauty, she knew they were excellent warriors. She supposed that was why she'd let her mind wander.

She couldn't pinpoint why or how or when, but lately she'd been terribly distracted. Sassan, her son, was beginning Gaean College, and had less time for her. As she only let few people get truly close to her, it left her quite lonely, even though she was rarely *Actually* Alone. It wasn't difficult to surround herself with people... Then on top of that, she wasn't sure what was going to happen with the new Pharaoh. She was trying to forge an alliance with her old acquaintance, but for all her skills at reading people, she couldn't tell how it was going. And she wasn't sure what Meryet wanted for the people... It left her quite uneasy. It left her wanting someone to pour it all out to. Someone to forget with... But there was no one. She wouldn't burden her son so, and no one else understood what it as like. A small, cruel voice from the back of her mind whispered to her, ***You*** *Chased away the* ***Only*** *Person who could help.*

The *Shwoop* Of a crude club coming at her head brought her out of her thoughts again. ***This won't do! Maybe... Maybe I need to take a break after this mission...*** It all too much echoed *His* Words, which just made her more flustered and angry. She stepped nimbly aside, the club swinging through empty air, and whirled around to fix her mistake. Her eyes twinkled and her smile was a touch sinister as she spoke, **"Don't you think it's a better idea to swing at your friends there?"** Using her chin to gesture behind him. The crude man looked stunned for a moment as her magic took effect, then whirled and began swinging at his fellow barbarians. She let a dark chuckle escape before turning her attention to her next target, a very large, muscular man with a huge sword. *Good,* She thought with a mixture of relief and sadness, *Maybe I can stay* ***Focused*** *This way.*
Val
Lestos. Part of the realm Kairos hadn't been to in what felt like forever. He had been taking some time to himself and traveling the realm, seeing if he could help any civilians out to distract himself from some of his thoughts about his former relationship. The Tidecaller needed to keep it off his mind for some time, but it seemed fate didn't entirely want him to not think about it. When he stumbled across a large battle happening in the distance, He prepared himself mentally and physically. Taking his sword out of its holder, he made his way into the battle. He knew instantly which side was good and which weren't, so as the raiders began to take notice of another individual entering the battle that wasn't one of their own they began to try and attack him. 

The Stormborn did not falter, and quickly blocked a strike. The demigod quickly began to get into a groove of fighting, but once again his thoughts began to speak louder within his head as he made his way through the battle. As Kairos wove through the chaos of the battlefield, his mind couldn't help but drift back to **Her**. Memories of their time together flickered in his thoughts like distant stars in the night sky, each one tinged with regret and longing. The Stormcaller cursed himself silently for the mistakes he had made, for the words left unsaid and the rift left unhealed. Amidst the clash of swords and the roar of battle, he found himself wrestling with his own insecurities, wondering if he was capable of winning back her trust and love.
** **

But there was no time for self-doubt now, not with enemies closing in from all sides. Kairos gritted his teeth, focusing on the present moment as he parried another blow from an oncoming raider. The adrenaline surged through his veins, sharpening his senses and honing his reflexes. He moved with a fluid grace, his movements a dance of steel and lightning that struck fear into the hearts of his foes. Soon after he put his sword away, thinking the time to escalte things and hopefully cause this battle to end soon. He summoned his spear and began to infuse it with his lightning powers. A stormcloud drew over the battlefield, and a lighting bolt struck down to his exact position. Causing a small shockwave to blast back raiders and give his spear the lightning magic. This bolt of lighting would show the one person he let get close to his heart know that he was around, he didn't intend for it as he had no clue she was here, but now she would know he was around.

As the battle raged on, The Maelstrom found himself caught in a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. On one hand, he yearned for a chance to make amends with Amunet, to prove that he was worthy of her love once more. On the other hand, he feared the possibility of rejection, of facing the cold indifference in her eyes. But amidst the turmoil of his thoughts, a glimmer of hope remained, a stubborn flame that refused to be extinguished. Some raiders began to run away from his position, as they fled through the battlefield they screamed that the Stormborn had arrived. His blue and white armor shining in the sunlight as he struck down the raiders that stuck around to fight still. *"How could I have let her slip away. Why must I always feel the need to give insight, when it's not best to."* He truly missed her, wishing he would see her again and fix their former relationship. Regretting the way things had ended.
Doris
As she had hoped, her large opponent was keeping her plenty occupied, and her dance of blades around him required all her focus to both plant her strikes and dodge. He was proving a bit tougher to fell than anticipated, his armor thicker than it looked at first glance. More aid must have come to their side, as she noticed more barbarians falling and less trouble watching her flanks. She felt invigorated by the battle and tried to let the emotions soak in, to enjoy it in whatever capacity she could before she trudged back to an orcish inn to drink heavily, dance, then pass out alone. She was tired of being alone with her thoughts; they were terrible company.

No amount of focusing could have let her miss the quickly forming storm, the stroke of lightning, the way the light reflected off that blue and white armor. Her attacks slowed, and slowed, until they stopped entirely. Through the mash of what remained of the battlefield, her sky blue eyes found him–it felt completely impossible, she was certain her loneliness was giving her flights of fancy. But there was no one else it could possibly be. She was so dumbstruck that she completely missed the large sword coming her way until it was too late, even for her nimble feet. The sound of slicing air brought her back just in time to twirl a fraction away, taking a slash to the ribs. *How long has it been since someone actually hit me?! I must be losing my mind!!"* She only wore a simple leather chest piece, partly because she was hardly ever hit and partly because she didn't want to be weighed down. Her style depended quite heavily on her speed.

A hiss of pain escaped her lips as she squared up with the man again. The sash around her waist untied itself, one end wrapping around her wrist while the other wrapped around one of his ankles. She yanked, the magic granted her for preserving peace pulling the barbarian towards her, though her strength, her size, would suggest it wasn't possible. He skidded to a halt by her feet, and she let out all the rage, all the pain as she crossed the two blades, severing his head with a clean strike. 

Feeling the tears that wanted to come to her eyes, she cleaned and sheathed her blades, putting one hand to her side. Around her, with the help of the Stormborn, the battle was quickly ending. Barbarians ran, comrades cheered. She looked up to expect it really was a dream, wishful thinking. Surely Elira wouldn't be so kind after she'd messed up something so good in such a disastrous way. She'd really loved–No, if she was honest, she *Still* Really loved Kairos. Then she'd treated him so terribly, chased him away for speaking the truth she didn't want to hear. She was so untrusting of anyone who showed her love or admiration; it was so often shallow and false. At the first sign of criticism, of doubt in her, she'd ran. It felt so much safer than the hurt that was promised if she was right. From someone she'd opened up to so completely, someone that knew the *Real* Her, not one of the many faces she could wear, the tiniest rejection was like a dagger to her heart. For all her bravado, she was far more fragile than she liked to show.

When her eyes found him, it was a shock again to see he really was there. **"Kairos..."** It was just a whisper on the wind. She felt her knees weaken, but she wouldn't dare fall; she'd rather pass out first. Such was her stubbornness. She couldn't help the wide smile that broke out on her face, but it soon turned to a grimace as she took steps toward him. She could take wounds better than the average human, but she was still human in the end. Elira saw fit at times to leave scars, rather than healing them away as if they were never there, to remind her she wasn't invincible; she wondered absently if this one might stay. She'd thought for a time perhaps the heartache was one such scar, or perhaps a different lesson... A few steps away from him, her body seemed bent on betraying her feelings, and her knees buckled this time.
Clarice
Kairos continued to fight through countless raiders in this war, the storm clouds above were still dark. Once he began to get used to combat, it provided a wonderful distraction to keep him away from other thoughts he didn't want to think about. The Tidecaller hoped that wherever Amunet was that she was okay, he knew she was strong and could take care of herself. But he naturally worried at times. Just like how he worries about how bad he messed up in their relationship. A cut to his arm, through the gap between his arm protection within his armor, had brought him back into the present. He quickly recovered, grabbing the man that cut him and throwing him backwards.

The Stormborn summoned another two strikes of lightning around him, to scare off any enemies. Finally seeing the battle dwindle down, he relaxed a little. But the universe decided he needed one last fight, physically at least. So a man came through the crowd with a large sword and tried to strike at Kairos. The demigod quickly dodged, and swept his legs out to try and knock down the individual. But it didn't work. Swords clashed between the two powerful warriors, until the end when Kairos had knocked the man's sword away and knocked him to the ground. The man bowed his head as if accepting that Kairos would take it off. But that wasn't how Kairos was. He knelt down in front of the man and looked him directly in the eyes. The man looked back into the young demigods two different colored eyes in response.

** **
"This fight is over. You have been spared, do not return here ever again. Never fight or take from the innocent again. Or justice will find you. Begone."

When Kairos rose to his feet and watched the man run off, he heard a faint voice call out. He recognized it barely, but refused to believe who it was. She couldn't be here right? Was fate messing with his mind again. Then he heard footsteps approaching, but he knew these weren't unfriendly footsteps. The tattooed demigod took a deep breath, preparing to face who was behind him. Finally Kairos turned to face the footsteps, summoning his spear away immediately upon seeing Amunet. He didn't know what to do at first, but it seemd his body did as he carefully approached without realizing at first. His features and expression softened at the sight of her, they hadn't seen one another in so long. Kairos quickly caught Amunet in his arms when her knees buckled, helping her stand and letting go once she was on her feet knowing she would be stubborn and try to shoo his hands away. 

"Amunet..."

** **
The Tidecaller was happy to see her, but didn't know if she would be happy to see him. He truly regretted his words the last time they spoke. And hoped all was well. Seeing her wound brought him out of his mind and summoned some water into his hand and allowed it to swirl, he had done this many times before healing someone. He always asked first, especially with Amunet. But she knew him enough to tell that he wasn't going to directly ask.
Doris
Once she was near enough to see his face well, Amunet found she was quite overwhelmed. The wound, the shock, and the complicated emotions he brought up within her; it was all a bit too much. She was normally so good at reading others, and it wasn't like Kairos was one to try to hide things, especially from her. But she found she struggled to read him the most, at times. She doubted herself and would second guess what she thought she saw. Like now, she saw the kindness in his face, but what more was there? Anger? Hatred? Love? Longing? She couldn't decide. 

The Wind Dancer wasn't sure she'd ever felt more humiliated than him having to catch her. Being an unwilling mother at 18 hadn't felt so bad, though she'd had a fierce dignity about it that challenged anyone to shame her for the sacrifices she'd made and the consequences she had to deal with. His touch, though brief, was so... Comforting, yet electrifying. She hated looking weak in front of anyone, but she had always wanted him to see the best in her. Yet it seemed the gods intended for him to always have a front row seat to her worst. Once he'd steadied her and let go, she almost didn't dare look up at him. She knew as soon as she looked into those ocean-deep, mismatched eyes, whatever she was feeling would just bubble to the surface. It was always that way, for better or worse. She had a hard time schooling her expression or holding back her feelings with him; again, something she was so incredibly skilled at with any other person. It was so frustrating.

As soon as she lifted her glassy light blue eyes to meet his, what she expected happened. She tried to blink them away, but the tears fell regardless, and she felt the heat in her cheeks that wasn't just from the Lestos weather. Trying to swallow past the lump in her throat and failing, she laughed nervously, gesturing with the hand that wasn't held to her wound to point to the water in his hand, **"Go ahead. If this isn't healed, I don't think I'll get my habitual evening bath; it would hurt too much. And you know how irritated I am without my bath."** She managed a small smile, sniffling and wiping away the few tears that escaped. She errantly wondered if the pounding of her heart was making the gash on her ribs bleed more profusely.

With a mixture of fear and hope, she felt a familiar defense come to mind, one that might be perfect no matter how he felt. One familiar enough that maybe she could hide behind it if she needed to. And, at least in part, it wouldn't be fake; the confidence and easy attitude would be the only things she couldn't naturally muster. She *Had* Missed flirting with him, after all. She spoke as he healed her, in tones playful but soft, **"I'm really glad you're here. It was hard to look forward to dancing at whatever festivities the orcs put on after this. They're all left feet and don't know all that many dances."** Her smile broadened, but her carefully constructed facade broke a little with her voice as she said, **"You** ***Were*** **Always a good partner."**
Clarice
Kairos couldn't put into words how happy he was to see Amunet again, and to see that she was doing fine. He never doubted, but he had worries. He always knew she was strong on her own, but there are times where she used to be too hard on herself. Doubted herself at times, there was no need for her to do that. The look that Kairos had in his eyes when Amunet looked into his was one of pride, he was proud that she fought so hard in this fight and out on her own. He never once thought she was weak, there was no need to feel humiliated around him. He felt the same when around her, confident and happy as well.

The Stormborn nodded in understanding, and carefully reached out with the magic water. The water was cold to the touch, but allowed the wound to heal without any pain or stinging. He also let out a small chuckle to Amunets comment about getting irritated without a bath. The Stormcaller was relieved to see that she didn't hate his guts, and still managed to smile and crack jokes at odd times. Her words sparked a flicker of warmth in his chest, a reminder of the camaraderie they shared long ago.
** **

He continued channeling the healing water, his focus unwavering despite the flood of emotions within him. With a gentle touch, he let the magic flow, gradually closing the wound on her ribs. His eyes met hers, conveying silent reassurance as he listened to her words. Once the wound was healed, he removed his hands and allowed another soft chuckle to escape him from her joke about dancing with orcs. Many flirty jokes ran through his head to give as a response, but decided against some of them as he thought they would probably ruin the moment besides one. At the front of his mind, thoughts about apologizing right away swirled, but he knew now wasn't the time to apologise. He would do it soon, after celebrating the victory of battle. 

"I remember a certain *Someone* Saying my dancing was like an orc dancing with two left feet when she was teaching me how to dance. You were a great partner as well."

Kairos started off with an amusing tone, but ended with a more somber tone. Knowing there was a lot to talk about between the two of them, he carefully held her hands and looked down into her eyes again. A simple kind expression of his face, the usual one he always had when he wanted to be serious in a time of fun and sadness.

"There's a lot to talk about. How about we enjoy a little of the festivities, then we talk after. Is that alright?"
Doris
The champion's flimsy emotional defense cracked more permanently with his healing touch, and she blinked furiously, wiping her eyes to prevent further tears. It wasn't just the physical healing, there was more to it than that. She was a touchy person, it was part of winning people over sometimes to give simple, innocent touch. But it was nothing like this, to have someone she so cared for, so longed for, for *Years* Now, to touch her, even in such a gentle, simple way. It made her wild emotions see-saw between feverish ideas and the desire to breakdown in tears. While she did actually see the reassurance when she met his gaze, it also frustrated her; how was he *So* Calm, yet her mind roiled?

And that was when it hit her, like it always inevitably did at various points, because while she was well-aware it was also easy to forget: he wasn't *Mortal*, this son of Kjartan. Being two millennia old and all that entailed, holding far more of a god's power than she ever could, blessed or no, it was natural he would have far better control of himself. It was foolish of her to compare, especially when her emotions tended to rise, fall, and crash like the stormy seas he had control over. 

Again she keenly felt the absence of his touch once it was gone, only now realizing how truly lonely she'd been these last four years. She'd tried so hard to stay busy, then her father passed, and that brought more to do on top of what she had created for herself. It was hard to feel lonely if she never slowed down enough to notice much, and she hadn't. Her soft laugh at his joke was a ghost, but an inspired one, of her usual laugh. She was quite amused remembering what it had been like trying to teach him.

The Stormcaller's shift of tone pricked her heart. She knew he'd get right to it, it was his way. But it seemed he was showing a bit of mercy, for which she was incredibly glad. But the prospect of having to face it all, sort it all with him, when she'd barely touched it on her own was incredibly daunting and terrifying. His hands finding hers was a comfort, and she found she was squeezing back rather strongly before she had quite realized, loosening her grip. At least it seemed he didn't hate her, wasn't too hurt by their final exchange.

It flitted through her mind quickly, talking in front of his cabin and hearing his calm voice, full of concern, warning her, *"Sassan will suffer if you continue in this way, you have to see what your real priorities are..."* He had seemed to want to say more, but she was full of fury, fear, and pain. She winced in the present moment, recalling her own hastily spoken, venomous words, *"For all your wisdom, you don't know shit about actually talking to people! Can't you see I don't want to hear it?! I am not like the skies and seas you bend to your will! Maybe you're better off alone, surrounded by silent nature."* 

The Wind Dancer nodded to his question, biting her lower lip, untrusting of her voice for another moment more. Taking a deep breath, she mustered a weak smile, moving to loop her hand through one of his tattooed arms and lead him away from the battlefield. Her internal struggle between the fear and the joy was apparent in the tones of her voice, **"While I'm not exactly... Excited to dig into my emotions,"** A sigh, **"I know I need to. Maybe some fun beforehand will help loosen me up a little."** Her smile deepened at the thought of dancing with him again, pretending it was like it used to be, even if only for a little while.
Clarice
As the demigod healed Amunet, it appeared he was calm and in control of his emotions with the touch. But internally, his mind and emotions were like a storm in the seas. Similar to the very storms he experienced all the time, but this storm was different and always the most difficult one to calm. They weren't as wild as other people's emotions, as he did have good control over the internal storm, but it took focus and determination to keep it calm at times.He wanted it to seem that he was alright. Now he wasn't unstable or anything like that, but he had too many thoughts and emotions racing around but he didn't want to showcase them just yet. He rarely showcased them, when he did it was always in private. He wanted to appear as strong and immortal to the people he saved, it gave them hope. And that was something he had learned from his mother and father. The Tidecaller had a special responsibility to always show himself as brave and strong, and calm so people wouldn't be terrified. It made him feel like he wasn't allowed to be anything other than just a demigod.

When he had let go of Amunet, he felt empty inside again. The chaos of the storm within him felt like it became a void, an emotionless void. He hated that feeling. Whenever he was around Amunet, it made him feel mortal. Despite not being entirely mortal. It was a feeling he enjoyed, the emotions of being around someone you loved. Feeling like you didn't have to put up a fake act. In their time together in the past, Amunet made him feel like a human. His burdens were lightened and not so heavy, and it allowed him to be himself and have fun. Allowed him to have fun with not just Amunet, but Sassan as well. Kairos remembered the bond he had with Sassan, a fatherly bond but also a friend. He had wondered how the boy was doing, hoping he was alright and keeping his mother safe but most importantly working hard in school to build himself a future.
** **

Intuition, from being around Amunet for so long, he could tell that his tone shift wasn't super pleasant to feel. The Stormborn wished he wasn't always wanting to get straight to the point in moments like this, but he couldn't help it. The demigod was trying hard though to give time for enjoyment, before they spoke about themselves, and so he was merciful with it. Something he had been also working a lot on and trying to get better at. Kairos was also able to tell from the small squeeze that she was thankful for the mercy, and it relieved him a bit as well. Seeing as he completely believed she hated him for what he had said. Without knowing that Amunet was recalling their final exchange, he was recalling it also. Hating his words and tone, and cursing himself for always feeling like he needed to give insight and wisdom. Wishing he had said it differently, and maybe at a better time. If there ever was a better time to say it. Cheering and loud music behind him had brought him out of the inner turmoil and back into the present. 

The Stormcaller was relieved to see that Amunet was sorta willing to talk after some fun. He showed a soft smile and nodded in response to what she had said. Allowing her to lead him to the dancing and away from the battlefield. He took one last look at the battlefield, before looking at the party. He may be physically moving away from one battlefield, but he knew mentally and emotionally he might be heading into another one. Another battle he wasn't entirely ready for. Kairos Ordo had no idea how he would feel during the celebration, pretending like it was old times with Amunet and as if their final exchange never happened. The demigod chose not to think about it too much, he didn't want to ruin any of the fun. Once they approached the celebrations, all the locals cheered loudly with their drinks as the two warriors that helped in the victory had finally joined them for celebration. 
** **

Kairos had one drink, he didn't enjoy the taste of whatever the Orcs had made and spent the rest of the time solely focused on one person. The Tidcaller danced for what felt like an eternity, enjoying every moment with Amunet. Pretending like what it used to be, joking around when dancing and following Amunets lead on almost every single dance. He would even purposely mess up at moments to mess with Amunet, chuckling softly everytime he did so. Each step of the dance felt like a whispered conversation between their souls, a fleeting connection that transported him back to simpler times. Yet, beneath his laughter and playful antics, there lurked a subtle pang of longing—a silent reminder of the moments lost and the ones yet to come. For now, he chose to revel in the warmth of Amunet's smile, savoring the fleeting glimpse of happiness it bestowed upon him. 
** **

The Son of Kjartan had missed moments like this. In the back of his mind, his thoughts and emotions began to race again. He had noticed that the celebration was coming to an end as all the partygoers were retreating back into their homes to retire for the night, or had decided that the table they were drinking at was a good enough place to retire for the night as well. The tattooed demigod looked down into Amunet's eyes, the joy within his slowly changing into one of vulnerability. Waiting for her confirmation that she was as ready as she could be, he wasn't ready either and he did his best to showcase it. Being completely honest and open with Amunet.

 The Demigod of Kjartan slowly led the Champion of Elira away into a secluded space where they were far enough away to have the lights faint behind them and allowed them to look up into the stars. When he reached the spot where he wanted to talk, he stopped and let go of Amunet momentarily. He walked a couple steps forwards before stopping, silently looking out into the stars. Kairos was trying to get a hold of his emotions, but was struggling. A somber feeling surrounded him and from behind, one could tell that there was emotional pain within him. Finally, he turned to face Amunet again, his multicolored eyes saddened. 

**"I'm sorry."**
Doris
Upon agreeing to talk, though it was terrifying, Amunet found herself settled into a temporary calm, like the eye of a storm. Maybe it was the promise of dancing, especially with her favorite partner. Maybe it was feeling him so close, her arm through his, a comfort despite the uncertainty ahead of them. Or maybe after feeling so terrible for so long, she just wanted to grasp desperately at the spark of joy, no matter how fleeting, no matter if it was somewhat built on false pretenses. With practiced ease, she was finally able to put on the face she wanted seen, one of happiness and warmth unbridled; it wasn't entirely false, as those emotions certainly dwelled in her at the moment, it was just that they weren't alone. She made all the proper greetings and flashed her winning smile in all the right places as they entered the party and got settled.

Being more an enjoyer of fine wines and floral cocktails, with the occasional ale in the mix, Amunet felt much the same as Kairos about the drinks. She managed to get one down, both to be a respectful guest and for the slight edge it took off. But she wasn't sure she would've had more even if finer fare had been on offer. She respected Kairos too much to be drunk later for such a serious conversation. And as they danced through the evening, she found she didn't need the buzz of drink anyway, as the high of dancing was more than enough for her, especially with Kairos. She hadn't lost herself in the rhythm and flow of it like this in so long, and it only further ignited the longing and hope that this wouldn't be the last time. It only ever felt this way with him. Even with his jokes and intentional missteps, she couldn't be happier; in fact, they only added to the charm of the moment. The song of her soul certainly was in tune with his as well, and she hoped fervently their duet, of sorts, hadn't come to an end yet.

As the party began to die down, as their quick rhythmic steps slowed and then stopped, the dread crept up on her to douse the light she'd so briefly glimpsed. She felt somewhat more at ease, seeing her own discomfort mirrored in her companion, but it didn't make the things she knew she needed to say any easier to find the words to say. More than that, she feared hearing him out. Kairos was ever compassionate and kind. Even if he'd planned on telling her he didn't want to be connected anymore, at all, she knew he would do so in the easiest possible way for her. The evening of dancing and closeness gave her hope that wasn't the case, but it was hard to completely dismiss from her mind until he refuted it directly. 

Once he let her go to walk a few steps ahead, she immediately wrapped her arms around herself, almost as if it would help her hold herself together better. Even just from behind, the evident pain Kairos was feeling cut Amunet deep. How much of it was her fault? How long had he turned her words over, and likely his own, again and again wondering what went wrong? Or worse, blaming himself. Seeing the deep sadness in his mismatched eyes made tears well up in her own again. Upon hearing his words, she bit her lip and looked down a moment, feeling a mixture of relief and anger.

Meeting his gaze again, her expression was complicated, but the love remaining for him was rather evident above all. **"You really shouldn't be the one apologizing. I appreciate it but..."** She took a deep breath, trying to manage the words as her face crumpled and the tears spilled, **"I was the one who was terrible. I'm so sorry... I didn't mean it, I was just..."** She squeezed her eyes shut a moment, arms squeezing her torso too, willing the words out through the choking tears, **"I was so scared."** She paused a moment, trying to get her crying to slow to a point without taking gasping breaths; also to try to choose her words carefully. **"I had begun to realize how much power I'd given you over me, and you have to understand,"** Her thin brows furrowed with the pain of putting it all together out loud, and she looked up at the stars to try not to start crying again, speaking in a quieter voice, **"The last two times powerful men had any control over me or my life... I only got hurt, used, ruined."** She looked down at the ground, trembling, **"I** ***Know*** **You would never do anything like that, but... In that moment, with you pushing me–or at least what felt like pushing–to do something I didn't want to do, a fear very instinctual and primal drove me."**

A deep sigh escaped her, then she drew up the courage to look him in the eyes, a small sad smile on her face. She spoke with almost a dark chuckle at first, then her speech faded in a whisper with the final words she had been fighting so hard to deny, **"But it turns out you were right... I'm losing control, Kairos."**
Clarice
Kairos listened to Amunet and observed as tears spilled from her eyes, the turmoil of their last interaction still seemed to repeat in her mind as well. He approached Amunet slowly as she talked about it ebing entirely her fault, something that Kairos would tell her soon that it wasn't, but didn't want to interrupt her. While tears fell, he carefully reached up with both his hands and wiped the tears away with his thumbs. He still deeply loved Amunet, and cared for her more than anything in his long life. He gave a gentle nod of understanding when she spoke about being scared, he understood what she meant but couldn't fully relate to it but he continued to be empathetic to the champion.

He stayed silent throughout the whole time, as well as allowing Amunet to take her time. The demigod knew this was difficult for her, and didn't want her to feel like she had to rush to get everything out or feel like Kairos would cut her off. His mismatched eyes reflected understanding, love, and care. When he was done wiping most of the tears away, he lowered his hands to take Amunet's hands within his own. Gently holding them. 

When the crying picked up again and she spoke about the last time anyone had control over her like that, he understood why she was scared and that it was okay to feel scared sometimes. She was strong and powerful, more so than she often thought of herself. The Tidecaller took a deep breath, and moved with deliberate grace, enveloping her in a comforting embrace. His arms wrap around her trembling form, offering warmth and security in the midst of her vulnerability. He holds her close, his touch a soothing balm against the wounds of her past.
** **

He looked down in her eyes, at the same time she looked up and gave the same soft sad smile she gave him. Still holding her close, he closed his eyes for a second as she said he was right and she was losing control. His mind told him it was okay to feel sad in this moment and release tears, but his body refused to listen. At the same time he carefully began to think of what to say. Part of him was screaming to act wise again and reminded him that wisdom was helpful. But the other part of him remembered that it was his wisdom that often caused conflicts. 

The internal battle wasn't noticable to the normal eye, but to someone who had truly *Known* Kairos, understood him, and had been the only person that he had ever really opened up to before it was clear what storm was wreaking havoc inside the Stormborns mind. Finally, he took a deep breath and opened his eyes. There was sadness and regret, and many other emotions.
** **

"I should apologize and I am glad I did. I messed up, and I'm finally able to admit it. I have *So* Much regret over my words. A constant ache through me, and it isn't your fault for that ache. Entirely mine. My words were harsh, I was too busy consumed with my own pride and ignorance, Amunet. I was so wrapped up in my own ignorant wisdom that I didn't stop to consider how it would affect you. Seeing you this hurt, hurts me more than I could have ever imagined."
﻿
He paused for another moment before continuing.
﻿
"I'm sorry that you felt scared. I'm sorry that you feel like you're losing control. I'm here for you now and forever, no matter what Amunet. We both have made our mistakes, and this time away seems like it's helped. It's helped me that's for sure. I care for you so much still, and hold you close to my heart. We've grown a lot since our last talk, emotionally. If you want to as well, I'd like to give us another shot. In any way that feels comfortable for you."
Doris
Amunet allowed Kairos to help, to soothe, however he wanted. She was somewhat in shock that it was all really happening, and his touches were a grounding comfort preventing her from getting knocked down by the flood of emotions. As her troubled eyes searched his face, she was beginning to understand why everything had fallen apart so horribly without him in her life. It was more than the fact that he was the only person she let see these things, that she let help with these things. Her stubbornness and fear had stopped her from learning from him; rather than figuring out how to help herself sometimes, she had just continually let him do it. She would break, he would put her together, then she was back into the fray, ad infinitum. While she *Tried* To do a few things for herself, like baths and reading, it was dawning on her that she didn't really know *How* To truly take care of herself emotionally. 

When his arms enveloped her, it only made her cry harder for a moment before she slowed then settled. She had *So* Missed this, missed him. No one had taken care of her since they separated, by her own choice, and this felt beyond comforting. It felt like *Home*, it felt like an unbalanced world had finally been righted. It didn't escape her attention when he closed his eyes that he was trying to decide what was best; though he was wise and well-controlled, she had to remember that he had feelings too. An urge to comfort him rose within her, and she reached up to gently stroke his cheek, run her fingers through his hair, as he thought and settled himself.

Nodding along to his words, she tried to see it from his perspective but struggled to do so. Her brows twitched downward briefly in consternation, **"Your words weren't harsh. I can try to see the truth that might be in everything else, but..."** Her hands had landed on his chest after her previous attempts to soothe, and she knotted his shirt in her hands as her tone became angry, **"Even if they were harsh, I think I needed to hear them. I'm so stubborn and set in my ways, even to the detriment of those I love the most."** Her eyes met his again as her tone shifted to one of worry, **"Sassan has been..."** She chose the word carefully but bluntly, **"Bitter, since I left you. My actions created a rift I haven't fully been able to heal. I've watched my sweet boy become angry and uncertain."** Another dark chuckle, **"Just like me."**

The champion looked at him with a mixture of worry and adoration, **"I think now I'm far more scared of what happens** ***Without*** **You in my life. The things I was scared to feel, to acknowledge, have forced their way out anyway. And have gotten so much worse... I'm glad the time helped you, I really am. I only want the best for you, Kairos. But these last years, everything has been slowly falling apart for me."** She bit her bottom lip, holding back more tears; she was so tired of crying. **"I've felt so directionless. My father dying lent some direction for a time, but then I found that my vengeful feelings towards him were a big thing driving me..."** She looked away, feeling somewhat ashamed of this ugly part of herself, **"And without him here for me to rub my accomplishments, the power he would never have, in his face... For a time, my work felt a little empty."** Looking back at him, she wore a look of irritation, with herself, **"Now Sassan needs me less, and he doesn't always enjoy my company anyway. So I found myself quite alone, quite unmotivated. So I did what I always do, and just worked harder, worked more. And now it isn't working anymore, I'm crashing."**

Returning his embrace, she wrapped her arms around his torso, burying her face in his chest before turning her head slightly to be heard, **"I never stopped loving you, never stopped wanting you. I feel like such a fool for letting my anger and fear separate us."** Pulling back slightly, she pushed up on her toes and gently pulled him down closer, placing a soft kiss on his cheek. Nuzzling into the crook of his neck with her forehead, she said softly, **"I only want to be yours, Kairos. I know now, with absolute certainty, I** ***Need*** **You. And I don't want to leave your side ever again."** Her heart was ready to burst, and her hope had grown from a tiny spark to a raging flame.
Clarice
Feeling Amunet in arms made him realize how much he had also missed this, it had been too long since he had been this close with Amunet. And he would try his absolute best to no longer allow them to fall distant again. He continued to hold her close, allowing her to get out of all the tears and comfort her through her emotions. They both felt at home within each other's embrace, it seemed that destiny had worked its purpose and was allowing them to be together again. At least that's how Kairos envisioned it partly, he never wanted to leave Amunet again. It was a tough timespan for him, continuing to live in solitude and bottle up his emotions. Never allowing anyone to see his weaknesses, especially the people of the realm. Too many people looked up to him for him to let them down in any way. The Tidecaller would work hard to save the people, focusing on that more than anything with himself, and when it was over he either went away to solitude or continued overworking himself to ignore his thoughts and regrets. But he would do that no longer.

The warmth of her hand against his face had been something he also missed, it wasn't just the feeling of her hand, it was feeling how much she cared for him and understood him. Another thing that had felt like forever since he last felt it, it reminded him of how grateful he was to have Amunet in his life. They understood each other so well, and were the only people that they allowed to get close to one another like this. Soulmates. Truly. The Stormborn used to never believe in that entirely, because he thought it was cheesy and something people made up. He was young when he believed that, never understanding what it truly meant or felt like until now. Nobody was able to reach through him or understand him like Amunet was able to and he knew it was the same for her with him.
** **

Kairos opened his grey and red eyes, looking down into Amunets and listening to her words carefully. His brows furrowed slightly when she spoke about his tone not being harsh but then they went back to normal in understanding when she said even if they were she needed him. He tried hard to see if from her perspective, and the dmeigod was able to slightly but not in full. But nodded in complete understanding, understanding what she meant. Then his expression softened even more when hearing about Sassan was being bitter since the abrupt temporary ending between her and the Son of Kjartan, he wasn't disappointed or upset like how many would be. Like how his own father would be, Kjartan. He was saddened to hear this, wishing that Sassan didn't have to go through that and become angered by confusion. He needed to see the boy again, to show that everything was beginning to change back for the better. To be there for the boy in his confusion, help him through it. The Stormcaller let out a small dark chuckle alongside Amunet, despite the anger and confusion Sassan was dealing with he was still so much like his mother. 
** **

To say Kairos was relieved to hear Amunets words about wanting to be together also, would be an understatement. He carefully listened to his words, realising within them that they both needed each other equally. He had felt empty, and other things that weren't exactly the same feelings that she was feeling but the common thing they shared was the only healing was to be together again. When Amunet looked away, he could tell what she was feeling and refused to let her feel that alone. He stayed silent to listen, but stepped closer to show that he wouldn't allow her to feel shame alone. It was alright to feel shame, it was something people commonly thought was something that cannot be shared and shouldn't feel but it wasn't like that. When she turned back around with irritation, she could tell that Kairos had shifted to show that he would share shame with her and not shun her for it.
** **

Holding her in the embrace, his expression shifted into one of joy when she had said she never stopped loving him. It wasn't just the words he needed to hear from her, but they were also the same words he had thought about constantly about Amunet. He felt the exact same throughout their distance, never stopped loving her and never stopped caring for her. He never did and never will. Before responding he let out a light hearted chuckle and planted a soft kiss on her forehead in response to her cheek kiss and words. He wanted to lighten up the mood a little.

"Well now I don't know what to say. You stole the words I wanted to say, Desert Rose. I promise to never leave your side."
Doris
Feeling his lips on her forehead, she was so light she thought she might float away. She'd felt bogged down and drained for so long, she'd forgotten what it felt like to be truly cared for, to be filled up by someone else. Especially by someone who so understood the struggle of needing to seem perfect in the public eye; no one else could help her carry that burden but Kairos. And though she'd just laid out almost every single thing wrong with her life, and they were still very real problems, she held some hope that they could be resolved–now, she wasn't trying to do it alone, and it made it seem so much more manageable. 

Looking up into his mismatched eyes, worry flickered across her face for a moment. What if she lashed out at him again? But seeing the love, the unadulterated joy on his face, she felt a bit more heartened that driving him away might not happen so easily. It wouldn't be easy; she'd never been more of a mess in her life. And while having him back was certainly a balm, a bandage over the wound, it didn't fix every problem. Worse yet, she hadn't fully grasped the root of the problem, no matter how hard she tried, and she was painfully aware of it. She hoped being able to sort these things with Kairos might give her more clarity, more courage to dig into the deep emotions that so terrified her. But if she'd frightened him into withholding his wisdom, it might be slow going.

Not wanting to diminish the moment even slightly, she pushed away those thoughts and feelings, beaming her most winning smile up at him as she gently broke the embrace, taking his hand in hers as she led them back into town. **"I have been told I have a way with words, it's to be expected, darling."** Sensing his desire to stay on lighter things, she was brief in squeezing his hand, a loving but serious expression on her face as she said with some solemnity, **"Never again. I swear it."** Immediately changing the tone, she smirked and her tone turned playful, **"I have a room at the inn, as I was expecting to drink myself to sleep after the battle. We're both rather filthy and tired. Besides, it's not luxurious, but I can't resist a bath in Lestos; the naturally warm water is divine."**