( In truth, these might be borrowed emotions learned after years of observing and living among humans. How they register in his mind and heart will never truly make immediate sense to him. Humanity isn't a skill acquired from books, so no matter how many trials he judges, or how many reports he writes up: what's left behind is true loneliness. The kind only another divine being could fathom.

The rain keeps pelting onto windows outside. He still can't forgive himself for allowing Furina to suffer all those years. As her... Iudex. Friend? As a fellow leader, he should have paid her more attention. )

I, too, will not rule forever, I'm afraid. Although that is something people should not be concerned about for a long time. I can only hope I am the leader people will be happy to follow until the next one rises to the occasion.

Palais Mermonia might be busy these days, but part of me can't help but feel like it's a dim reflection of what it used to be the years you resided in it. Well, I will also say, Sedene is very fond of the cake you used to like now.

I understand you wish to keep your distance from all those centuries, Lady Furina. We don't have to label what we are now. I'm not sure how people would label us. I also don't consider myself an entity ruling over you, either. In my eyes, you are still an equal, so perhaps that's what we will always be.

It goes without saying, yes. I do have authority over the oceans, do I not? My decision is thus: I'll always be here.

( Well, is she thrilled that she knows him so well? She sure got her verbose essay. )