Besides Little Ika, who was flying in small circles with her fluffy feathers puffed up, two strange beasts lay quietly beneath the shadow of the corridor pillars, watching the scene before them with gentle eyes.
They were the Griffin and Pegasus they had seen atop Sky Fortress.
The Griffin's fur gleamed a warm bronze-brown beneath the courtyard's soft light, while the Pegasus's mane flowed like liquid moonlight.
They had reined in the majesty they once possessed as divine envoys, their auras calm, as though they were merely two somewhat larger and docile guardian beasts.
Sorabis watched the small-bodied Seneos struggle to practice her smile. Its huge head tilted slightly to one side, and a deep, reflective mumble rolled from its throat:
"...Actually, I think Seneos as she is now... has a certain contrasting charm."
Its voice was heavy and slow, like stones grinding against one another.
"Like the most vibrant spark of life preserved within hard amber."
The other strange beast, the one shaped like a Pegasus, nodded gently as well. Its long neck traced an elegant curve, and its voice was clear and pleasing:
"I agree."
"Like a sunshower falling on a bright afternoon at the appointed hour... scorching warmth and coolness coexisting, solemnity intertwined with innocence. It has a charm of its own."
"Der~ der~~~"
Little Ika fluttered before Seneos. Her black bead-like eyes stared at the little face that was trying hard to maintain a smile yet looked somewhat comical. She chirped a few words as well, the tips of her wings giving a mischievous shake.
"?" Feng Jin hurriedly looked at her, raising an index finger to her lips. Her eyes held mild reproach and a trace of amusement.
"Shh, Little Ika, don't say nonsense..." She tried to stop the little creature from making such unguarded