The Smaller Things (Sky: Children of the Light)

Chapter 6: Nothing Really Matters to Me

Ayin was a considerably younger elder, and it was unclear how exactly he had come of that position. But, to be fair, Vionn was mainly clueless on how elders were elected in the first place. What Ayin lacked in a more advanced intuition, he made up for in physical strength. However, Ayin could not hurt even a butterfly, let alone any major threat. Like Daleth, Ayin had managed to preserve a child-like imagination. He would be fazed by threats, but not necessarily understand the logic behind them, though unlike the former, he would be inclined to listen to any scientific rambling.

"Sir Ayin?" Vionn called out into the rectangular temple's premises, their voice echoing from the stone walls. Like a sleeping beast, Ayin rose from one of the many naps he took, and flinched slightly at the sight of the visitor.

"Hello, butterfly," his voice boomed gently, "I'm so glad to see you." Ayin smiled warmly under his pot-shaped mask.

"You are?" Vionn questioned, "on what occasion?" This could be serious, Vionn thought. Maybe Ayin had been expecting them because there was a great underlying threat that-

"It's always good to see a familiar face," Ayin answered annoyingly simply. It took Vionn a considerable amount of energy to suppress their growing frustration.

"Did you know where the Shards fell today?" They asked as Ayin leaned down to their level, not needing any support for his sturdy spine.

"Oh, did you clean those up?" He inquired with oblivious politeness, "that was very nice of you." Vionn sighed, trying to keep their cool. It wouldn't be of any use to explain any further, could it?

"Those shards," Vionn continued with a seriousness they hoped Ayin could pick up on, "...those shards fell in an area which had remained untouched by Darkness until today, Prairie Peaks. This leaves only your mainland safe from eruptions."

"Oh, this is bad news..." the gentle giant reflected plainly, "I quite like Prairie Peaks, actually. I hope the manatees there are okay. It was such a hustle to migrate them.."

Vionn remembered a notion that the elder of the Prairie had limited notion of battle tactics, mainly using peaceful methods that would conserve nature as its priority. Daleth decided that this would be Ayin's problem to decide, but the latter was clueless on what to actually do.

"I think my neighbor to the north might know how to help," Ayin suggested. At least he knew he wasn't prepared for these situations. It was a major redeeming trait of his, to be able to admit where his abilities fell short. Even if it was unintentional, Ayin had suggested a path of action that might lead to a desirable outcome. Vionn bowed quickly before hurrying out of the temple's exit.