Work Text:
Gentle footsteps brushes the vast greenery, slowly approaching the edge of the cliff. The area is very secluded, only those who were close to this individual knew the destination he’s walking towards. He didn’t inform the rest of the crew of his visit, didn’t wish to bother their missions and duties for a mere walk in the woods. Knowing well it’s the anniversary of a dear friend, he would never miss the day, no matter how many years had passed since.
Standing before the engraved stone, his eyes softened, reminiscing the feeling of nostalgia as he longingly sought that certain person. There’s nothing underneath the spot before him, it was only a memento to remind of his presence while he slumbered somewhere deep within this realm. The blue haired closed his eyes, perhaps a prayer or a moment of silence to pay respects, only he could tell.
“Hey, bud.” The gust of wind rustled the leaves, taking this as an answer to his calling.
“You read my letters, huh. Well guess what, I have another for you. You can read it as much as you like.”
He took out a neatly sealed paper and placed it before the gravestone. A one-sided conversation wasn’t satisfying to the blue haired boy. So he would write letters for the receiver to cherish his words bit by bit. The countless years of conveying his feelings in a piece of paper was still an embarrassment to him, but for a dear friend, he wouldn’t care less. He knew too well that the receiver would appreciate as much as him. It took him years of acceptance from the grieve he had to bear through his letters. Now with a renewed determination, he continued his wandering career, the path the savior would happily join in.
Slowly walking beside the stone, he sat on the ground, wistfully feeling the wind while admiring the scenery, just like old times. While distracted, the wind blew the laid paper and gently flew along the direction the wind led.
“The joyous cheers from Hyland’s festival. A world where peace takes over the glooming calamity.
The life we had wished together, dreamed together, promised together. Despite what everything had happened, we still hold onto those hopes for the world’s future. No matter how the obstacles had stopped us, no matter how Heldalf had tried to stop our tracks from hunting him down, we had fought to the last…
But at what cost...?
I still wonder how long you’ll be sleeping. It’s very like you to oversleep, even while we have planned adventures ahead. But knowing you, you love to hear my naggings just to wake you. In other words, you could hear the peaceful silence over there, right? People’s joyful happiness, no sight of malevolence after your passing. That was your dream, right? Wish you’re here to see the growth of the world we love.
With the fulfilled purpose from the shepard had concluded, everyone had gone their separate ways. Alisha became the queen of Hyland and married — bet that I can hear that silent sobbing of yours haha. Rose had taken her duty as your substitute as a shepherd, continuing your legacy with the other crew. Me? Well, you knew what I’m doing from my previous letters.
But even surrounded with the joy of life, walking along the path on my own has become lonesome day by day. You used to accompany me to every destination that fate will lead us.
I missed rambling about ancient ruins with you. I missed your stubborn head, just to protect me from harm. And I missed saying goodbye during our last battles. No matter how you disagreed on assigning me as your sub lord, you still pulled my hand to various adventures in saving the world.
Even though you’re no longer by my side, I’ll always remember your presence. All of us will. Your legacy in saving the climatic chaos will forever be known, from the eldest to the young generation. You gave us the will to live another day.
And I’ll cherish these memories we had together until the day you’re awake, no matter how many years that’s gonna take. So now, rest peacefully. I’ll look over the peace you’ve given while you’re gone.
I will make you proud, and some day, when the time is right, we’ll meet each other, watching over the world we love together.”