Page 50 of Echoes of Eternity

Just as we were beginning to relax into the reprieve on the bed beside one another, a sudden burst of preternatural energy filled the room, causing us to pull apart in alarm. The air shimmered with a metaphysical light, and a new presence made itself known. My heart raced with a mix of fear and uncertainty, worried that the dark magic had somehow restored itself and a dragon was going to burst into my home.

An unexpected figure emerged from the glowing energy—a being of pure light and authority. The entity was regal and majestic, its presence commanding both awe and respect. I could feel the immense power emanating from this new arrival, and it was clear that this was no ordinary divine being.

Noboru tensed, his gaze locking onto the newcomer with a mixture of apprehension and hope.

“It’s been a long time since you’ve graced me with your presence,” Noboru said, his voice a whisper of disbelief.

The entity, whose form radiated a comforting warmth, addressed us with a tone that was both authoritativeand reassuring. “Noboru, you have endured much,” the entity spoke, its voice resonating with a harmonious blend of compassion and power. “Your punishment for the transgressions of the past was harsh, but it was not without purpose.”

Oh no. Was he going to get punished again? Were we never going to catch a break? I refused to let them take him away from me!

I watched confusion and panic as the deity continued, unsure of what else was going to come out of his mouth and how much time I had left with Noboru. “Because you have overcome the dark power wielded by the Yakuza leader, you have demonstrated not only strength but also an unwavering commitment to protecting the balance between light and dark. I must admit, I was surprised I did not see an entire city raised to the ground by your flames like the last time. Your actions have been a testament to your resolve and your discipline.”

Noboru's eyes sharpened in surprise and relief as the deity’s words sank in. “Does this mean—?” he began, but the entity interrupted with a nod.

“Yes,” the entity confirmed. “The punishment imposed upon you is lifted. The balance has been restored, and your role in maintaining it is once again honored.”

What? He never told me his punishment wasn’t over yet, the jerk!

A wave of relief washed over Noboru, and he lookedat me with a mixture of gratitude and joy. The irritation that flared a few seconds ago, waned.

“The burden is finally lifted,” he said softly, his eyes meeting mine. “We are free from the shadow that has loomed over us for so long.”

The divine entity’s presence began to fade, the light gradually dimming as it prepared to depart. “Remember,” the fading voice advised, “even in moments of respite, the balance must be maintained. Continue to honor your commitment to light and protect those in need and we will… overlook this minor transgression of you choosing to bind yourself to a mortal.”

With that, the paranormal presence receded, leaving us in the quiet aftermath of its departure. The room felt different now, lighter and more peaceful. The immediate threat had been vanquished, and the weight of Noboru’s punishment had been lifted.

I turned to Noboru, our eyes meeting with a profound sense of relief and connection.

“You didn’t tell me you were still being punished,” I started, unable to contain my attitude.

“It didn’t serve a purpose to tell you. Would it have changed anything, Mae?” he responded calmly.

I narrowed my eyes. “Maybe.”

He chuckled softly and pulled me closer, the warmth radiating from him grounding me. “No, Mae. It wouldn’t have. I’ve hurt you enough for a million lifetimes. I wasn’t going to do it again through words that made no difference in our destiny.”

I sighed, wrestling with the complexity of our situation. “So, what do we do now? Just pretend everything is fine? Our relationship is unconventional, Noboru. It’s not like we can walk out on the streets like every other couple out there, living together in a happy little home.”

His expression shifted, the amusement fading into something more serious. “We find a balance. An understanding. My existence has always been tied to duty and destiny, but that doesn’t mean I cannot carve out a space for us within it.”

“An understanding,” I echoed, considering the weight of his words. “How do you propose we do that?”

He smiled, a glimmer of mischief returning to his eyes. “We embrace the chaos of our lives. We communicate openly, even when it feels uncomfortable. And we do our best to enjoy each moment together, no matter how unconventional it may seem.”

“Enjoy? You mean like going for coffee or something?” I raised an eyebrow, half-joking.

He cupped my face and I felt my body deflate a little with the weight of my thoughts. “I feel your worry, Mae. It will be alright.”

“Yeah, right. A bird deity and a tattoo artist—sounds like the start of a bad joke,” I said, smirking.

“Maybe,” he replied, leaning back slightly to look at me more fully.

A laugh bubbled up despite the tension still lingering in the air. An awkward pregnant pause passed between us and I couldn’t hold back the question that continued to gnaw at my mind.

“Noboru, what happens when I age while you remain immortal?”

His expression shifted, the playful spark fading slightly. “It’s a reality we must face, Mae. Time works differently for me. I will watch you grow, and experience life in ways that I can only remember.” He leaned in and placed a kiss on my lips as unbidden tears began to stream down my face. “And I will find you in each and every lifetime.”

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