The Flickering Flame. [PK]

[ReverseNebula 373]

 

 

 

---

 

He’d marked their faces out when they’d come and go, a family he’d treasured since his childhood, taken at such youth - and torn brick by brick, until their foundation laid in nothing but tattered ruins.

 

Charlotte was the first, amidst Lichtenwald when Reinhard and herself were caught, his sisters were next, save Nocte, Melia and Eden - though the others were names lost amidst his mind.

 

When was the last time he’d thought of something aside from war?

 

It’d been months - maybe a year or so since his wife died, when he devoted himself unto studies and work, not to escape - but to try and staunch the hole that tore at his heart.

 

In her absence, he tried his best at pushing his children unto their own paths, unto their own lives - perhaps it was for the better.

 

Better for who?

 

Everyone but himself.

His connections waned, as he plotted, and with it did threats from others and connections unspoken. His capabilities expanded, but with them - did those words seem to hang overhead.

 

It was a truth, he knew would come soon.

 

"Your blades will settle into uselessness soon."

“I know.”
 

All tools ceased to exist eventually.

So what was one more, whose honed edge finally found respite?

 

What was one more,

Whose story ended as abruptly as the last?

 

 

---

 

 

All that was left, in the wake of the Jumoko.

It was a stone coating that rendered him into a statue.

From such, only one thing is known.

From such, only one thing was the TRUTH.

 

A flock of birds is released with letters.

In their wake, the news spread.

In their wake, the TRUTH is confirmed.

 

Telemachus.

Had Died.

 

Letters scatter throughout the land, as news is spread.

(Please do not metagame the letters, their contents are for those listed.)
 

To Mikaze and Yukiko.

Spoiler

I regret the time I lost as we grew older, I regret not sitting down and focusing more on you as I did my work, but you two were the start of the greatest things, and you were my closest friends and allies. I'm sorry I was the first to go, but we knew this would happen, didn't we? The world was always out for blood, and I was quite fond of paying its price.

 

To Athri, Naith, and Amara.

Spoiler

I was far from the greatest son, especially for one adopted - and I know I had you worried more often than not. But it was with your support, that I was able to hold my own - and become a beacon for others whos unfortunate conditions, found them at my feet for help.

I only wish I could thank you, repeatedly - and let you know I love you one last time.

 

To Iulius and Avenly.

Spoiler

Had it not been for you, when I was a boy Avenly, I'd not have come to where I sit. Hell, I might've still been a blind Jumoko boy in the horde - but your compassion, and Iulius's shield, did much for me. I am greatful, and unable to repay it.

Know you have my due diligence, and respect always, even if it means little to most.

 

To Atsuko.

Spoiler

Your words, and your teachings carried me as far as any other - but they blossomed the chance for me to even make my living. You gave me the ability to grow, when everyone else would have rather saw me leave. 

I regret not studying under your longer, for that would've been a dream come true - but not all paths are forged in following of another - and not all paths, settle with retirement.
You earned yours.
So keep to it.

 

To Ena-sama.

Spoiler

Regret gnaws my being, everytime I recollect those schizophrenic, and paranoia filled letters. 
If it hadn't been for your hand with multiple things, I think I'd still have been lost, and rageful.
Thank you, truly, for everything you did for us - and may your Good Kani guide you when your time comes.

 

To Jiro-sama.

Spoiler

I never know if I fully rekindled your trust, but know I tried - for regret plagued me when I recounted your words.
I ask not for your forgiveness, but only a favor.
You offered my Daughters tutoring, if you can upkeep such - even in my own failure, I'd appreciate it.

You were a brilliant warrior, and the fights alongside you were immaculate, even if you reminded me of a crazed ape with your styles.
Fight Long, my friend.

To Ysivrym.

Spoiler

Its funny, how I used to fear you - but I'm glad I earned your trust, of many.
The fights, and adventures with you and your flock with thrilling, and your company was welcomed.
Thank you, for the opportunities, and I apologize for my failure.

Maybe in another timeline, the Vow of Flame takes me, and my fate isn't so abrupt.

To Elathion, Maekar and Hina.

Spoiler

You three gave me tutoring, and guidance where I needed it.
You opened doors, and built bridges for me to cross - and I hope my service was worthwhile.

I know I wasn't the best student,
Nor the most amazing fighter,
nor the smartest tactician.

But know I gave you my all.
And I would do it again.

To The An-Gho.

Spoiler

My Prophet,
I'd hope this came when stone claimed me, if I was ever given the vow
But my hopes wander aimlessly as with my explorations of the world.

I lived my life as wildly as any flame could've.
It is only right, it is snuffed all the same.

 

To Meli

Spoiler

I have no other words to tell you.

I'm sorry, and I love you.

To Nenar.

Spoiler

Remember that first adventure?
I still remember those flames, and the chaos that arose after.

But, chaos seems to follow me, per the usual, doesn't it?
I thrive in it, and I thrive only there - so these subtle days of peace, the longing for acceptance elsewhere and raising a family.
It felt so odd, for what I had made of myself.

But, I suppose we both made our acknowledgements when we went on those missions, and spoke oft, eh?
Heres to hoping.

Just don't let the hells claim me.

To Nickie.

Spoiler

Be Free.

To Jackdaw and Takashi

Spoiler

Walk your path.
Seek the one you know,
Seek the one who called you,
Do what I could not, and in its wake,
Carve fire from the soul, and let weakness not claim you anymore.

To Vrys, Vella , Grae and Koi.

Spoiler

I've never been one for many words.
But Thank You, for tolerating me.
Thank you, for helping me where applicable.

 

To Constance

Spoiler

Constance,

Its been awhile, and ever since the Imperial ban of Jumoko's, our contact waned for your safety.
In truth, I miss you - and our talks and the lack of judgement on your end was welcome.

The kids are well,
One has their own children - truly how the times fly.

Also, incase it wasn't clear - you guessed right.
Surprising, eh?

I hope you're well.

To Eira.

Spoiler

I know this will be as hard on you, as it is my own children.

Know I do not fear my death, for it is inevitable for us all - but in its inevitable lingering, you need know when to avoid it.

I have never learned this habit, and many scold me for it.
So don't take that trait, if any from me - take forth my compassion, and let it dwell within you.

I know rage will fill many, but do not let them act foolish.
Do not abandon what you have built, simply because the flames flicker and the cold creeps.
Fuel the flames of your soul, and in its wake 
Cleave knowledge from the shadows, and build yourself anew - like your creator never allowed.

Become what you wish to be.
I love you, as my own blood.
Be well.

To My Children.

Spoiler

Go.
Do not cower behind the walls,
Do not let your tears, and fear control you.

I have built you bridges,
I have torn down blockades,
I have fought, and I have bled.

So do not sit, and wallow to death.
Go, and know I love you until the worlds ends shall tear.
Go, and know that my fight has not ended in my death, it carries on through you.

Special thanks to everyone, that helped me build Telemachus' story.
Its been ups and downs, and heavily restricted, but nonetheless.
It has been fun.

[TheMysterySlayer 35]

As Mika was led to the statue her mind raced with thoughts.  "Telly can't be dead...someone as strong as him? surely not"  but alas, as the statue came into view the medic knew there was no curing what had befallen one she called a friend .  "I'll make sure you are buried with your wife llir" 

[Rig 17580]

It was ironic that Vriza's desire to slay Inferi and Warlocks often led him to kill people who were wholly uninvolved in the conflict. Alas, when the devil-spawn woman did not provide the name he asked for, it instilled in him lasting distrust. He knew little of the man he and his "men" killed, but the Demon King knew only that had the woman just spoken the name 'Ezau' nobody would have died.

 

That irony alone brought cruelty-lacquered laughter from his maw. The mere omission of the truth resulted in devastation. Had he known this devil-spawn soldier was the brother of his student, it would have evoked even more laughter, because fate itself could not pen something more tragic.

 

"If you had only spoken her name," he remembered saying to Eira. "He'd still be alive." 

 

A clerical error, these things happen.

[Reckless Banzai Screamer 15456]

It was a little while before Ena received the news of Telly's fate while on his tour of Haganeki trees to stubbornly stab at.

 

"If only you knew my kani was black like your blood Telly. I'm sorry we never got to help you overcome the curse. If rest is out of the question, may your reincarnation have a brighter fate. For all your imperfections, I am the more deserving of the hell you're damned to." the green shinobi spoke to himself in a silent offering to the Jumoko. To this day, the thank you note written to him was pinned on the wall by his bed side. Death had been a common thing in these days of war both to the enemy and to those he had tried to protect. Still he hunted the pink witch fueled by pure pettiness - the same pettiness that fueled his vengeance upon those that plagued Telly in his life.

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Otakuu 128]

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿

 

 

Amara Galnerys was knelt within the mud next to the stone body of Telemachus, a hand outstretched and her fingertips touching his shoulders. 

 

"Telemachus...my boy.."

Came her broken whisper as tears fell down her pale cheeks, mixing with the rain that fell around them.

 

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿

The scene changes to where Amara is sitting in the Clinic of Junmura with an arrow sticking out from her knee, Mika unconscious beside her. 

 

"My boy....my boy..."

 

She whispered till consciousness left her, leaving her within her mind.

 

The memories that she had of Telemachus played like a recording from the time she first met the cute little boy with breathing issues to the time where she gave him one last hug. 

 

She remembered when he gave her a rose garland, something she still kept preserved to this day, placing it on her head and smiling, then breathing all excited, sounding a bit like a pug. The adorable, happy memory lived on in her mind.

 

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿

 

 

"Mom..."

 

Telly's broken whisper came through as it changed to a more recent, darker time. In this memory, Amara was holding onto a grown up Telemachus, her fingers combing through his hair as she held him as a mother would their child. The day she swore that she'd be there for him till the very end.

 

"I'm here, honey. I'm here..."

 

Slowly, Telemachus' form shrunk more and more, disappearing from her arms like his spirit till she was left hugging herself. The elfess leaned over forward and started sobbing in the darkness which was her mind. 

 

Her son was gone. Never to return, never to embrace again.

 

This was the greatest sadness known to Amara. Her Dies Terribilis.

 

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿

[EndRealms 132]

    Eira couldn't have done anything. He was dead, before she woke up from whatever sleep she had been put into. Yet she blamed herself. “To think… one name could have prevented this.”  It was her fault. She could've prevented it. Yet.. it was too late. All she could do now, was cry at the base of the statue.

 

----

 

   Astraea took the letter with shaking hands- still mourning her late Kasaan. She started to read through the letter- tears brimming as she continued. "He tells us to fight... yet, how could we?" She turns to her sisters, shaking hands setting the letter down.

[xo31 3979]

ANOTHER OF HIS KIND, A DEVIL MARKED BY FIRE, SAT, KNELT INTO A PIT OF THE DEAD.

 

A HAND SLID SLOWLY ACROSS A BLADE, SHINING WITH STARSTEEL - COVERED IN DRIED BLOOD.

 

DRIP. A TEAR FELL UPON THE BLOOD FOR TELEMACHUS. HIS GLOWING EYES ROSE TO STARE FORTH UNTO THE FIRE.

 

"TELEMACHUS," He spoke, aloud - towards the ash. "GIVE ME YOUR FIRE, FOR IT WAS ALWAYS MORE WRATHFUL THAN I COULD BE," - "AND IT WILL BE USED TO HUNT THEM TO THE END OF THE EARTH."

 

[ChainedDragons 1374]

Bron... Nickolai.. dropped to his knees as the letter fluttered to his hooves at the aviary of Tir'glas. No. It couldn't be. Not Telly.. His half brother was much stronger than he was. He had things figured out. He couldn't be gone. He couldn't be. His head bows, horns resting against the Aviary post as sobs wracked his body. Another loss...

[ProcaPro 557]

Metal fingers grip the letter sent to her. It is a while before Yuki, once Grae, understands what it means. She'd lost the ability to cry long, long ago. Her ability to emotionally respond was starting to wane too. All the now-machine could do was look upwards to nothing and think, eyes glass and empty.

 

She'd never agreed with her adoptive brother's choices. But she had loved him like her own family. What was love to her now, though. Was that ache something wrong in her innards or was it something emotional, struggling to effect her? It didn't matter either way when whoever it was for was too dead to know about it. She'd have to write home. She'd have to attend a funeral and pretend it hurt her much more than it did.

 

God, she wishes it hurts her more than it does.

[sapphic_spidy 1089]

Despite everything, it brings Castien no relief, no comfort.

 

He hated Telemachus, at least- he thought that he did. But this feels different. This feels different from every other time. He still hated Raullin after he died, still hated Roger. Hell, he near celebrated their deaths. 

He can't do that with this one.

 

Castien really didn't want him to die. He just wanted him to... what, exactly? Get reprimanded? It feels silly now. The fact that he can't just let things go fills him with deep guilt. He had nothing to do with the death, yet he feels truly, deeply guilty.

[_Black_Drag0n_ 781]

A herald of ages past hears of the demise of one of one of those loyal to Azdromoth and his children. He bows his head "We welcome you in death Brother" The Pale Sorcerer, once walking the halls carrying the name Vidnyr, spoke, his voice echoing over the frozen mountains that he now called his home.

[Iulius 206]

Cold winds accompanied one of the birds in the North. The tired form of the Thegn crossed the gates, stained in blood after the long battle at the very heart of the Horde. Like he did every day before going to rest he advanced towards the aviary, to check his letters. "No news, good-". The letter arrived, just at that moment. Iulius unfolded the parchment, going to read through it. And for a moment, his heart stopped. 

 

He couldn't believe it, surely he was wrong, it couldn't be. The first who ever called him father, dead. The boy he saw grow up, of whom he was proud, gone. His breath faltered, becoming unsteady. His vision blurred, his mind clouded. He wanted to scream, but no voice came to his mouth. 

 

He simply stood still, like a statue. His mouth agape behind his helm.

 

And finally, after a time, he moved to return into his household. He slid to bed, but couldn't sleep. His soul filled with sadness, sorrow and rage.

 

In a final moment of clarity he spoke, with the broken voice of a father which had lost his child:

 

"Rest well, Telemachus. I am proud of you, my son."

[Navigator 4260]

The Prophet of Dread got wind of such news through a string of tell-tale stories and rumors, of the one who supposedly hunted down his children, passing away. He didn't know how the man had died - nor did he seem to care. Ryad put down that Daemonsteel flamberge, Ixen, and sat back down upon the Mortal Throne of Dread. In the bowels of the Black Church, for the first time in a good while, relief washed over the Archprince.

 

"Something of value was indeed lost. . . and yet. . ."

[Burnt Toast 198]

Telemachus could remember his sister. Could seek her in the afterlife. But her soul could never be found. It was taken, stolen by another for their own purposes. Nocte would remain unaware in her strange limbo, still thinking so highly of her brother. Such a bright flame, burning ever strong in her mind. It seems fate has one more cruel joke to play...

[Plausifraunz 361]

Tears stained her face once again as the letter came into her hands. In less then two years, both of her parents had been lost.

"I'm dreaming, right? Tell me I'm dreaming." Odessa would become inconsolable. Her hands wrapped over her ears. She loved her mother, sure. But she and her father were close knit.

How does one recover from a heart so far shattered?