The Arcane Guardians Chapter 55: Chapter 51: When It Rains

Read chapter 55 of The Arcane Guardians by Mercynarie on NovelPedia.

Fun Fact: Most of the world speaks a common language, although there remain a few who cling to their near-extinct native tongue. Hydrus City is a notable country that uses its native tongue as its administrative language. ~ ~ ~ Felix had been staring blankly into the distance for at least thirty minutes when a shadow intruded on his presence. He chose to ignore it for the moment, fully basking himself in the view before him instead. The night cooled quickly, and its evening breeze whistled gently in his ears. Time seemed to wait with bated breath as the skyline hung locked in a moment, almost as if seeking to preserve itself in a painting before slipping away. Felix released a long breath. Sirius City was still a pretty-looking place, despite everything that had happened. “You know, we’re quite literally facing the destruction of our country right now.” The presence had finally decided to speak up. Felix chuckled to himself, turning to look at his friend. “And it wasn’t all that long ago when we were fighting for the fate of humanity itself.” “True. But this time it’s personal, isn’t it?” Gaius walked up beside him, leaning on the railing as he looked at the cityscape as well. He paused for a moment. “It has been personal for all of us, in fact.” “Indeed, it has.” “Thank you, Felix.” Gaius smiled. “For everything.” “Hmm? Ah, don’t mention it,” Felix muttered absentmindedly. “We’re all friends, right?” “Friends help each other, and not just give without taking.” Gaius turned to him. “You always were the strongest one among us, but even the gods have their companions. If you ever need a push, I’ll be right there behind you, my friend.” Felix closed his eyes, looking away to hide his rapidly souring expression. “Truth be told, I don’t know if I’m strong enough to do what’s right. Aglaia just… reminds me so much of Marcia,” he said. “And when it counts, when we’re in the thick of it, I… I don’t know if I can be rational enough to lose her again.” “You don’t have to.” Gaius placed his arm around his shoulder. “You’re terrified, that much is plain. So is she. Life disappoints because we fall short. But you don’t have to destroy what you love just to save it.” “What should I do? The only way I know how to beat someone is by using brute force.” “Then don’t force your way through.” Gaius smiled. “Because I don’t think she really reminds you of your sister, Felix. I think she reminds you of yourself.” The memories came back to him one by one. Her endeavour to help others. Her stubbornness. Her power. He clenched his fists. Gods-dammit. Gaius was right on all accounts; he just didn’t want to admit it. “When did you become such a gods-damned guru, Gaius?” Felix grinned. “And I’m the one who’s supposed to be psychic.” The two of them stared blankly at each other before cracking up like a pair of drunkards. The laughter washed over them, ebbed away, and hit them again for no reason. Tension melted away as they tried to stop giggling, only to bellow even harder in laughter. Their reaction was way stronger than what the feeble joke deserved. But still, it felt good. There had been way too much doom and gloom going around these few weeks. “Alright, alright, enough horsing around.” Felix wiped the tears from his eyes. “Let’s go check up on the refugees.” They headed towards the spiral staircase. ~ ~ ~ A woman bumped into Felix just as he entered the main hallway. She was dragging a suitcase behind her, and looked like she was leaving the refugee camp. Felix stared at her with a quizzical look on his face. Why leave now when the crisis wasn’t over yet? “S— Sorry…” the woman mumbled and scurried towards the entrance, keeping her head low as if she was embarrassed for some reason. Felix looked around in confusion. That woman wasn’t the only one leaving the refugee centre. Small pockets of people were pouring out of their quarters and heading in his direction as well. He hurried over to Cybele, who was speaking rather agitatedly with a man. “Please