Chapter Text
Aether was the more emotional one between us siblings.
Whereas I leaned more on pragmatism, he was more emotional and socially aware. I-It’s not like I’m lacking on those aspects—not at all!—but it was evident what kind of person Aether was. A sympathetic friend. A trustworthy ally. A kind and perceptive brother.
But in this moment, from my vantage point some ways away from the ceremony, he was now a lover, a husband to someone else.
Kamisato Ayaka. She was the descendant of a well-known family; a ‘beloved character’ in a story, if this were fiction and not real life. Sheltered and perhaps lonely, only to find solace in the arms of a Traveler-made-rebel …
… It’s sickening to witness, the development of their relationship. In a span of months and years, from acquaintances to confidants to lovers, it left a bitter pang in my mouth.
I remember saying to Aether a long time ago, in one of our visitations to another world, that a woman would be lucky to hold his attention, let alone her affections. It was not due to deficiency from his part—far from it, I told him in no uncertain terms—but because he loved so much, too soon that only few are ever worthy or cognizant of his intrinsic value. Not as a companion or a man, as both had easy standards to measure upon, but as a partner.
I remember his flustered reaction and spluttered words. I remember, vividly, his adamance why it wouldn’t happen; our mission, for one, and our companionship on the other.
Perhaps my bitterness stemmed from this conversation, so long ago now that it faded from my thoughts completely until the present day. Only when their vows were said, and the seal of a kiss was made, that realization set in.
My brother is lost to me forevermore.
Perhaps happiness is better known to him this way. Perhaps he will find solace in her arms, love in her eyes, adulation on her lips. Perhaps he will forget, one day, about the sister still lost to him due to her self-imposed exile.
Perhaps none of these things will come to fruition, and their union will come to a tragic end. As is wont to happen to us drifters on our epilogues.
But I pray that it does not come to pass. Not to my Aether, my brother, my best companion and my first love. And not to her, sweet, perfect Ayaka, whose affections were pure and genuine.
Envy may occupy my heart, but my wish remains the same.
‘May you find happiness, dearest brother.’
Your sister does not need you anymore.