Chapter 307 - Farewell (1/2)

”Then that settles it,” said Lira promptly. She stood up, patting Tia's shoulder before turning to the others.

It was very evident by now that she did not have long in this world before her construct form faded. Flecks of glowing red magical energy were starting to swirl off of her, like she was made of sand blowing away slowly but surely in a gentle breeze.

It was eerily beautiful, in a sense, her fading was with the gleaming sparkles of red glittering in the night, hovering in dancing arcs above her head and reaching high into the sky.

”Thou taketh thy leave now?” asked Asala with a certain degree of saddened disappointment. Her pale, slender fingers clutched at a sand tablet tucked to her side.

”Aye, was a fine time to hear of your tales,” agreed Old Thane.

Vilga did not speak but sat cross legged with her eyes focused intently on Lira – sign that she was attentive but not talkative as usual.

Sheela was in the same seated position, but her expression was one that was a little more wistful, perhaps still a little disappointed that the dragon would not grant her the help she wanted.

Mason and Mercer were still moping around and quiet in the corner. Li would have to ask them why a little later.

”I had perhaps an hour of time left, but I have heard enough and talked enough. I am not the greatest conversationalist, so I would have felt rather awkward mulling about while fading away,” said Lira. ”At the least, I have filled in your tablet about the rest of mine adventures. I shall hope that when my true self descends upon this world, she will have many more tales to speak of from many more worlds.”

”I shall look forward to it,” said Asala with a short bow of her head, her yellow eyes gleaming with curiosity at the mention of other worlds.

Lira nodded to Asala and then addressed the others.

”I do not have that many profound final last words in mind,” said Lira with a shrug. ”I have never been an eloquent speaker. All I can say now is to reiterate that you have the potential to make strong ripples in fate. But take care that these ripples are neutral – they measure only the size of your influence.

It may be that you will twist fate for the worse. Hopefully-,” she continued, giving Sheela a glance. ”It will be for the better. Now then-,”

Lira stood up tall and looked to the sky. The crimson flecks breaking apart from her body began to crumble apart in higher volume, rapidly, until there was huge pillar of red light shining from above her, reaching like a tall candlelight into the sky with flickers of both light and warmth.

Her body began to break apart at the extremities, her hands and legs fading away first.

”I suppose this is goodbye. For now. Til' I see you all next.” Lira smiled, her fangs baring. ”I look forward to where fate takes you all.”

”Oh, right!” said Tia. She clutched at the ruby around her neck and said, ”Thank you! Papa always says to thank people for gifts.”