Candy Coated || Buddha

Happy People

It's a strange sight to behold, witnessing rain in the God Realms. Not because rain is uncommon but because it's something you don't expect to see, not in a place like this; a place sometimes rumored to be flawless.

This reminds you of home.

Standing inside the temple, looking out at the village, you raise an arm just outside the boundaries of the roof. Cool rain pours onto your skin, inciting goosebumps. You stand there for a moment, enough to reminisce about your former home, then you saunter out into it. Despite how dreary it is, something about the rain soothes you this afternoon.

Is this how I feel? Or how Shaka feels?

For a week since the unexpected trip to the ghostland, you have experienced a few unexpected emotions swirling around in your body; tranquility, happiness, fondness; the latter you are sure spawns from you.

It's strange. You are sure the tether is to blame and since these emotions have arisen, you have felt a bit frightened at how much of yourself is being taken over by them. How much of you is left? And is Buddha experiencing the same thing? You honestly have no clue.

An unexpected light suddenly catches your attention just out of reach. It almost appears to be materializing out of nowhere. Then a flash so bright forces you to cover your eyes. You groan in pain, having to take a minute to rub them before your vision clears, revealing two familiar faces you weren't expecting to see so soon.

"You almost blinded me," you utter.

Is that flash necessary?

Göll quickly apologizes, but Brunhilde is quick to change the subject.

"We came to speak to the Buddha about something," Brunhilde answered. "It's an urgent matter."

You hum in response.

"I think he went somewhere this morning. I haven't seen him all day, but Jataka might know where he went."

"He irritates me. Of course, he isn't around when you need to speak with him. I even told him I'd be coming by soon and to stay here," Brunhilde rambles in annoyance as she taps her foot.

You wonder what sort of urgent matter she needs to speak to him about. It can't be about the red cord or else she'd include you.

Though I wonder.

"Has there been any luck finding Yue-Lao?"

"Unfortunately no," Göll answers. "He doesn't want to be found for some reason. None of the other Chinese deities have even seen him."

You hum. It's strange, but unfortunately, there's nothing you can do. The Valkyries at this point are the only hope you have unless you ask Buddha for help.

With a deep sigh, you fake a smile. It's disappointing but you understand.

"I'm sure Shaka will be back soon. We should probably go inside to wait for him."

Brunhilde raises a curious brow but says nothing in response. She and Göll walk with you to the main room where Jataka is waiting.

"Brunhilde... Göll... It is a pleasure to see you both," he greets with a sincere smile. "Siddhartha went to see a friend, but he should be back soon. If you are busy I can tell him to head over to the arena when he comes back."

"We'll wait," Brunhilde states.

Jataka nods in response.

"I will go get snacks."

Who is this friend that Buddha went to see? You reckon that it's none of your business.

It doesn't take too long for the easygoing God to return, as his brother had stated. You are sitting on the floor with Göll sharing a treat with her when he leisurely walks him, carrying two packages beneath his arm. His curious eyes look you over, taking in your soaked appearance before he grins; a bar of what appears to be rolled candy rests between his lips.