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"He was ugly, but he was beautiful—the most beautiful thing she had ever known..."
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WILLIAMretreated under his tree back at the headquarters. It was his only safe haven, away from everyone else in the world. He thought that his traumatic memories would get better, especially since he let it out with Solene. Turned out, it was only his terrifying nightmares about the Eye of the Midnight Sun. There was nothing that could diminish the deep scars his childhood placed on him.
“World Tree Magic: Mystical Serenitasia Tree.”
He casted his spell again, hoping to feel better under the warm green luminescent glow of his tree. The slumberpetals should bring him solace and comfort, as well as give him a peaceful sleep, but his sorrow was too great that the only thing the tree provided was beauty.
He curled himself into a ball, putting his face against his kneecaps. The nightingales flew on their nest, singing him a low, agonizing tone.
Even the birds know my pain. William thought, closing his eyes.
His eyes started to burn, filling with tears until it dropped. He bit his lower lip, hating this small, vulnerable self. He almost felt like he reverted back to his childhood, when he was weak, and all he did was cry, because he was alone.
“Lord William!” A high pitched voice called from afar.
When he opened his eyes, he saw a goddess running towards him, wearing a crimson gown, and a worried face.
“Solene?”
“Lord William!” She halted for a moment, catching her breath. As she took another step, her foot tripped on her gown, making her lose balance. At the last second, William caught her in his arms before she fell.
“Solene, why are you—”
“What did you think you’re doing, running away like that? When we danced, you were still acting fine, then the next second came and you changed and you left me. Tell me, Lord William, what's the matter?”
William averted his eyes. “It was nothing. You should go back to the party. Do not worry about me.” With his voice low and solemn, he turned around.
She grabbed his hand, pulling him towards her. “Forgive me for worrying about you then, Lord William. But I cannot just stand around having fun while you’re here… alone. Do you remember? I told you I am your confidant. We aren't wearing our uniforms, aren't we?”
William stared at her earth-colored eyes. Her eyes were blazing with eagerness and determination, and so much curiosity kindled it. Her eyes were filled with so much emotion, and it was enough to make him calm down.
I guess it's time.
“Solene, have you ever wondered what I look like beyond this mask?”
“Eh?” Solene tilted her head, flabbergasted on the masked captain’s sudden question. She paused to think.
