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Darkseeker
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When at last the Goddess received her two drinks, she thanked the bartender, though she made no move to leave. Simply picking up one of the drinks and sipping at it. Before allowing her grey eyes to move across the ball, studying the room. Many had returned to the dance floor. She could see Apollo on the floor, dancing with an unknown woman. While her father and mother were dancing about a five feet away from Apollo.
Azena studies her parents, though she wasn't overly close to them, she knew them well. Her father, Zeus, well she was closer to him than she was her mother, Hera. But then again, Hera tended to piss off a lot of Gods. Azena sighs as she allows her gaze to move on.
"Azena."
The Goddess sighs again,"Notus. I know that look. I am in no mood to discuss Khilios and I's marriage with you yet again." Notus frowns,"I demand it." Azena sets her drink down and straightens up to her full height, towering over the Wind God. Her grey eyes become stormy with annoyance,"You demand it?" To his credibility, Notus did not shrink under the Goddess' fury.
Azena narrows her eyes,"Fine. Speak." Notus glares at the Goddess,"You are the Goddess of wisdom. Tell me, what is so wise about marrying a man you do not love?" Azena scoffs,"When do Gods marry for love? Tell me, do Zeus and Hera look in love? Does Zeus' many affairs sound like love?"
Notus hesitates and Azena continues,"Khilios and I's marriage are none of your concern. Now either change the topic into something more pleasant, or get out of my sight." Notus refuses to move,"It's my concern when it's my brother."
Azena growls,"Why don't you ask your brother? He was the one who wanted to marry me anyway. I was perfectly fine single." Notus fires back,"You could have said no." Azena simply raises an eyebrow,"If you truly believe that, then you do not know the whole story. Now get out of my sight before I lose my temper."
This time, the Wind God was smarter, and retreated. Though he did not leave without a final glare at the Goddess. Azena sighs in annoyance,"Wind gods." She picks up her drink again and downs the rest of it. "Refill this." She orders as she slides the empty glass to the bartender, while her empty hand went to the second drink.
Suddenly the night had gotten worse, thanks to Notus, who had suddenly put her in an even more terrible mood. This was clear simply by the way she looked, as many who came up to the bar were careful to avoid the Goddess. Lest they become the target of her fury and rage.
Azena continues to sip at her drink, though she was very tempted to just down the whole thing. Her grey eyes flicker sideways as the bartender slides the glass back towards her, refilled.
"Azena."
The Goddess slams her drink down this time, causing everyone around the bar to jump in surprise. "Khilios. If you are here to continue the conversation Notus started. You best turn around and leave now." Khilios snorts,"It is a conversation that needs to happen." Azena eyes her husband, clearly Notus had riled up his brother. This was not the care-free, go with the flow Khilios that Azena was use to dealing with.
No matter, Azena had dealt with the pissy side of her husband as well. "Perhaps so, but it is not a conversation I will be having in the middle of a ball." Khilios narrows his eyes, and Azena does too. The couple glaring at each other in a sort of stare off.
"Khilios. Leave me alone. I will not have this conversation with you in the middle of a ball." |
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Neutral
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As a sharp-witted observer, Aresius found himself thoroughly engrossed in the dynamic interaction between the Goddess and the God of South Wind. When the Goddess's frustration resonated with the opposing God, he found himself intrigued by the intricacies of her intricate and implicit connection with Khilios. After Notus vamoosed, abandoning Azena to her own devices at the bar, Aresius capitalized on the moment. He arose from his chair with intentional refinement, maintaining a modest demeanor as his gaze bode fixated on Azena as if he was being drawn toward her invisibly. As he approached, Aresius monitored a fascinating blend of resistance and weariness in both Azena's stance and behavior. She possessed an authoritative aura that was unquestionable, which only piqued his interest to probe the depths hidden within her reserved facade and unravel the fervent sentiments that lay within. While the bartender replenished Azena's glass, her gaze momentarily shifted to the side. Aresius astutely noted that she subtly clenched her fingers around the glass, which revealed her inflating frustration. It was clear that her spirit and mental state had been influenced by the circumstances of the evening. As Azena was about to take a gulp from her glass, the commanding voice of Khilios seized her immediate interest. Aresius could feel a tangible unease existing between them, with lingering altercations looming just out of view. They stared intently at each other, both silently daring the other to give up in a competition of perseverance. Aresius became increasingly fascinated by the intricacies of Azena and Khilios's connection, which compelled him to delve more in-depth into their dynamic. He had an impression of witnessing a personal understanding, being given a peek into the convoluted interactions between two assertive individuals intertwined in a web of sentiment and commitment. Despite Khilios wanting to articulate about their issues during the lavish ball, Azena dwelt resolute and declined to participate in the conversation, choosing not to broadcast their disagreements in such a setting. With a commanding demeanor, her words harbored an authoritative tone that inspired both regard and the need for solitariness. While observing the tandem, Aresius couldn't resist esteeming the sheer force percolating from Azena. She enclosed an unquenchable flame of decisiveness, which remained unruffled by relational conflicts, representative of her indomitable spirit. He could discern the internal labor depicted in the look on her face - a conflict between her cravings for autonomy and the obligations that came with being a deity. He comprehended the significance of being isolated, the yearning to handle individual concerns on one's own conditions, which was a trait he had also formulated through many years of bargaining with the complexities of his own existence. After Azena vehemently requested Khilios to flee, an edgy soundlessness sufficed the air. The other deities in the bar sensed an uneasy apprehension and reflexively built space around the pair, giving them enough space to be sole. With heightened interest, Aresius tended the unfolding scene just a few steps away, contemplating the direction it might go. Just as Aresius was about to approach Azena and propose support, Khilios showed up and seemed to agree. He established a slight display of acceptance in his eyes, indicating his willingness to heed her limits. Aresius stood firmly at the bar, playing the part of a reserved onlooker, keeping his eyes fixed unwaveringly on Azena. He had no hidden agenda or elaborate plan in his thoughts. His only purpose was to proffer comprehension and comfort in a world overeaten with disturbance. He bode steadfast and subdued, volitional to lend an ear or propose his presence if Azena desired to share her burdens. Within the festive and kaleidoscopic scene of the active dance, Aresius found consolation in the serene bond he disseminated with the perplexing deity in front of him. He silently wished that in the midst of the disorderly tides of her existence, she would also feel solace like the God of War does, Aresius. |
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Darkseeker
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Even the powerful and cold might and fury of the Northern Wind stood no chance before the fury of the Goddess. Khilios had put up one hell of a fight, but even he knew when to back down. Khilios allows his gaze to slide away briefly before returning back to his wife. His voice was as cold as the winter he brought on his winds,"We will discuss this." Azena's eyes darken and Khilios was quick to beat a retreat.
The Goddess remains stout and motionless, her grey eyes tracking her husband as he moved through the crowd. No doubt to find Notus. Perhaps the two could discuss their failure in getting Azena to talk. Or, knowing the Wind Gods, they would simply find their other two brothers and send them after Azena too. The Goddess couldn't help but wonder how much trouble she would get in if she were to summon her wolves here and have them chase after her nuisance husband and his brothers.
Would Zeus see the humor in it? Would he let it slide? Was it worth it? Azena sighs to herself as she turns back to her drink, if anyone else came bothering her, then she would summon her wolves. Then it would be worth it.
Though deep in her thoughts, Azena was aware of the other deities at the bar. The way they were looking at her, as if afraid she would suddenly snap. Lose her temper, or even take it out on them. The only one who seemed unafraid, was the God to her left.
Aresius, the God of War. Considered her counterpart, just the bloodier side of it. He was tall and muscular, and unlike the other deities at the bar, he seemed unafraid of her and her temper. It intrigued her. Had he not been around when the fight had happened? Was that why he was unafraid?
Of course, the Goddess didn't know the God to be afraid of much. One of the few Gods to not be afraid of anything. Azena was tempted to start a conversation.
He would make a fair companion for the rest of the night. Someone who perhaps hated the ball as much as she did. Perhaps he would even make a better companion than her own husband. And even perhaps her husband and his brothers would keep far away from her the rest of the night if she had a companion like Aresius beside her.
Azena's lips were thin as she takes a drink of her concoction. What was she on? Drink number three? Had it only been three? Or had it been more? She didn't feel affected, but maybe she was. Perhaps not though, else wise she probably would have snapped on her husband.
Azena sighs as she slides the two empty glasses back to the bartender. "Do you have anything stronger?" The bartender raises an eyebrow at her,"Stronger?" Azena narrows her eyes,"Stronger. A hell of a lot stronger."
The bartender sighs,"I'll see what I can do." He takes the two glasses and goes back, turning to make the Goddess a new drink. |
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Neutral
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Aresius positioned determinedly by the sumptuous bar, observing the area with a perceptive eye, anticipating the excellent prospect to start a discussion with Azena. He was surrounded by a vivacious atmosphere, replenished with cheery conversations and laughter. The melodious consonance of voices and tunes combined to construct a delightful extravaganza. Aresius strategically placed himself and noticed a momentary pause in Azena's communication with the bartender, which presented a convenient possibility. He saw a chance and decided to take it at that moment. Gracefully, he inched a foot closer, taking a spot just a couple of feet away from Azena. Aresius proposed a fleeting but momentous look at her, flaring his nostrils. Aresius observed the festive atmosphere and remarked on its exuberance in a melodic tone that could be heard amidst the noise. Aresius cleverly evaluated her response by taking a deliberate hiatus. He noticed that she was inquisitive and very conscious of his existence. Fixing his eyes unflinchingly on her, he silently fanned an invitation, indicating his willingness to attend and receive any information she desired to disclose. He intended to present her a residence of refuge, a momentary breather from the heavy responsibilities she harbored, a transient moment of connection amidst the disorderly environment. Aresius frankly responded. ''You possess an undeniable presence of strength and wisdom. I feel an unaccountable lure toward that force. Finding someone who shares the same nature or sentiments with oneself in the world of both gods and humans is an uncommon occurrence.'' He deliberately halted once more, allowing his words to penetrate her mind. Aresius observed her with great attention, highly susceptible to the delicate expressions etched on her face. She displayed a blend of cautiousness and intriguing inquisitiveness in her eyes, indicating the intricate range of emotions that consumed her. Aresius with a thoughtful tone in his voice mentioned that he had been scrutinizing the magnificent ball from afar and taking comfort in his own deep thoughts. ''However, I find myself completely drawn to your being. Would you be willing to take a short pause from the noise and indulge in a consequential conversation that goes beyond the surface-level talk typical of such circumstances?'' Leaning forward a bit, Aresius conveyed an approachable and courteous demeanor, using his nonverbal cues to invite a more profound bond. He exuded a sincere and profound interest, with a natural desire to forge a profound connection that stretched beyond the extravagant occasion, discovering sheltered truths and novel territories within their inner beings. During that concise moment of stillness, the spirited environment surrounding them shriveled into the distance, almost as if recognizing the importance of the forthcoming choice. Aresius was completely fixated on the spiritual entity standing in front of him, eagerly awaiting her retort. He was ready to engage in a dialogue that could potentially uncover influential truths about their interconnected being. |
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Darkseeker
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The Goddess became more aware of the God as he got closer to her, leaving just a couple of feet between the two. Azena allows her gaze to roam, and when Aresius looked at her, their eyes caught for just a brief moment. Then Azena allows her gaze to keep moving. She didn't want to stare, even if he had looked at her first. Azena takes a deep drink of her glass, before setting it back down. And although her attention seemed to remain on the ball, when Aresius began to speak, she heard every word.
The Goddess agrees, as he eyes move across the room. "Whoever organized this clearly out did themselves this time." The air was filled with the joy and laughter of everyone at the ball. It was clear this was going to last quite a while. Azena would definitely be leaving before it ended.
As Azena feels Aresius fix his gaze on her, she takes another sip of her drink. She had not yet turned her full attention on him, and so her gaze and body remained faced away. Although she could practically feel the invitation for her to start speaking. Was it because he had overheard her conversation with Khilios?
Was the God of war offering her an outlet? Someone to rant to about her loveless and useless marriage? Or about how terrible a person her husband could be. Or how annoying him and his brother's could be?
Hmm, if so, she would not take him up on that offer yet. For now, her thoughts about her husband and their situation would remain her own. Although, Azena was more than willing to allow the God to become someone to chat to.
"You possess an undeniable presence of strength and wisdom. I feel an unaccountable lure toward that force. Finding someone who shares the same nature or sentiments with oneself in the world of both gods and humans is an uncommon occurrence."
As the Goddess absorbs and comprehends his words, she allows the glass to touch her lips again. Enjoying the cool liquid sliding down her throat, as she could finally begin to feel the effects. Barely, but she could still feel them. Finally she responds to the God. "Despite the fact we Gods share the same golden blood and walk the same halls. We do not have much in common." That was her way of agreeing with him about finding someone who had even one thing in common.
Once upon a time, being observed so closely would have bugged the Goddess. But as the years wore on, she became use to it, and had even learned how to ignore it. Yet, in this situation, she was not ignoring it. She just wasn't returning the same observation. Especially since the God still hadn't quite caught her full attention yet.
"However, I find myself completely drawn to your being. Would you be willing to take a short pause from the noise and indulge in a consequential conversation that goes beyond the surface-level talk typical of such circumstances?"
Ah, the God was asking for a conversation. One that didn't relate to the party going on around them. Azena's grey eyes move from the ball to the God, indicating that he had managed to capture just a little bit more of her attention. Although she was still thinking on his question.
Then finally, Azena turns her body towards him, showing that the God of War had successfully captured her full attention. With a incline of head came the answer the God was no doubt looking for. The Goddess would indulge in a conversation. |
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Neutral
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A surge of profound satisfaction coursed through Aresius as he observed Azena's body language, her deliberate turn towards him signaling a profound willingness to engage in an intimate exchange. It was in this resolute gesture that he found affirmation of his intuition—a shared desire for a connection that transcended the superficialities of the grand ball. Mirroring her inclination, Aresius reciprocated her consent with an unpretentious yet deliberate nod of his own. His eyes, luminous orbs of intrigue and appreciation, locked onto Azena's gaze as he prepared to articulate his thoughts, his voice resonating with natural interest. "I am deeply grateful, Azena," he commenced, his voice laced with an undercurrent of enchantment, as he emphasized the syllables of her name with a nuanced tenderness. "In this domain of deities, where power and ambition oftentimes reign supreme, encountering a soul that yearns to venture beyond the mere surface, to plumb the intricate depths that lay concealed beneath our divine visages, is an exceedingly rare and refreshing occurrence." An expectant pause shrouded their conversation, as Aresius allowed his words to settle upon the air, granting them the weight they deserved. He keenly recognized the importance that burdened Azena's gaze, a weariness that stemmed from her sacred duty as the Goddess of Wisdom. At this moment, he endeavored to provide her with a respite, a possibility to connect with an individual who perceived the person beyond the ethereal mantle. "Contemplation of war has often offered me solace," Aresius resumed, his voice now tinged with a reverence that bespoke an intimate affinity for the subject matter. "The conflicts that shape not only the realm of mortals but our own divine realm as well have been the source of profound illumination. Yet tonight, amidst the splendor of this magnificent celebration, I find myself yearning for a different sort of understanding—a comprehension that transcends the ebb and flow of battles, and instead embraces the multifaceted complexity that defines our very existence as gods." As Aresius spoke, a barely perceptible lean toward Azena transpired, ensuring that his mellifluous words reached her ears with utmost clarity and intention. He sought to engender an intimate space, one free from the superfluous trivialities that pervaded the surrounding gala, where their dialogue could unfold in a manner unencumbered by distractions. "Pray to tell, Azena," he implored, his voice assuming a mellower timbre, "what rarified wisdom resides within your being that eludes the comprehension of mere mortals and even most deities? What thoughts and insights do you possess that venture beyond the confinements of gods' quotidian concerns?" Unyielding, Aresius kept his gaze firmly affixed upon her countenance, an embodiment of attentiveness and receptivity. He yearned to unlock the profound depths of her wisdom, to unearth the sheltered truths that she carried within the recesses of her divine essence. At this moment, he perceived a connection—an unspoken communion that beckoned him to delve into the labyrinthine corridors of her mind, to uncover the profound wisdom that awaited. Silence permeated the air, expectant and dense with anticipation, as Aresius awaited Azena's response. He stood poised and ready to embark upon a conversation that possessed the power to transcend the veneer of the ball, unfurling the layers of their immortal existence and forging a connection that defied the boundaries of their respective domains—war and wisdom. |
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Darkseeker
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As Aresius copies her movement and turns his body towards her as well, Azena's eyes sharpen with focus. The storminess fading slightly, though not completely gone. She tips her head ever so slightly as Aresius speaks, listening to his words with a gentle curiosity.
The way he spoke was enchanting to the Goddess. It was hard to explain out loud, nor would the Goddess ever utter such words anyway. "Our fellow deities often roam unaware that the wisdom within all of us is the most important thing." Was that a bias statement as the Goddess of Wisdom? Just a little, but it rang truth as well. The knowledge every deity held was power. Knowledge is power. "I have not found many who realize wisdom is the key to life." Did it surprise her that the God of War had that realization? In a way, yes. In a way, no. In his years of war, he would have seen almost as much as she had.
Solace. Something that deities sought in each other, parties, and other silly things. Azena? She found solace in her wolves, in the meadow where peace rang true every morning and every night. And yet, even that peaceful place could not fully fill Azena's heart. Azena couldn't help but laugh at Aresius' words, she had wondered that for years. The complexity that defined their very existence. Not just the deities, but everything. "The existence of our world and ourselves is a complex mysterious that remains mysterious to all." A small smile curves at the edge of her lips,"Even to our Primordial Gods and even to I, the Goddess of Wisdom." She held all the wisdom in the world, except for the complexity of their existence.
The Goddess had begun to find herself emerged in the conversation. In fact, all but a small part of her had forgotten that she was currently at a ball. She had even forgotten about her husband and his brothers, and how they had been bugging her. It had been a milliena since Azena had been distracted enough to forget the problems that troubled her.
"Pray to tell, Azena, what rarified wisdom resides within your being that eludes the comprehension of mere mortals and even most deities? What thoughts and insights do you possess that venture beyond the confinements of gods' quotidian concerns?"
What knowledge did she posses that eluded the understanding of even the most powerful deities? That question sent the Goddess into her mind, into her thoughts. Into the knowledge and wisdom that floated through her head. She had thousands and thousands of years of wisdom. And in the years that she had lived, none had ever asked a question like that.
"If you were to offer a thirsty man all the wisdom in the world, you would not please him more than if you offered him a drink." Wisdom was a powerful thing, and yet, many did not accept it. Many found knowledge useless and therefore could not reach their full potential. The focus returns to Azena's eyes as she withdraws from her thoughts. "Even my father, the King of the Gods, is unaware of the impact that wisdom holds in the world. Without it, we would be nothing. Our lives would be meaningless and useless." |
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Neutral
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Aresius found himself intrigued by Azena's response, her words resonating deeply within him. He could sense the weight of her wisdom, the centuries of knowledge that she carried with her. It was as if her very being emanated an aura of enlightenment, drawing him closer to the core of her understanding. The God of War listened intently, his gaze locked onto her eyes, eager to grasp the essence of her insights. Her laughter, though brief, echoed in his ears like a symphony, reminding him of the elusive beauty that often accompanies the pursuit of knowledge. "Yes, the complexity of our existence remains a profound mystery," Aresius replied, his voice tinged with a mix of wonder and reverence. "Even as gods, we are but pieces of a grand tapestry, interwoven in ways that defy our comprehension. It is in embracing this mystery that we can find a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us." Aresius leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a softer, more intimate tone. "Tell me, Azena, what are the secrets hidden within your wisdom? What revelations lie at the heart of your vast knowledge? I yearn to explore the uncharted realms of your understanding, to discover the truths that elude mortal and immortal alike." The Goddess's words carried a profound truth, reminding him of the value of wisdom and the significance it held in shaping their existence. Aresius could feel the weight of her words sinking deep into his consciousness, stirring his own thirst for enlightenment. "You speak of the allure of wisdom, how it can quench a man's thirst even more than the vastness of its offering," Aresius mused, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. "It is a testament to its transformative power, the way it can reshape the course of our lives and grant us a profound sense of purpose." He paused for a moment, his eyes never wavering from Azena's gaze. He could sense a kinship between them, a shared understanding that transcended their respective domains. They were more than gods of war and wisdom; they were beings who yearned for a deeper connection amidst the chaos of their existence. "You speak of our lives being meaningless and useless without wisdom," Aresius said, his voice laden with conviction. "But I believe that through the pursuit of wisdom, we can infuse purpose and meaning into our very existence. It is the driving force behind our actions, the guiding light that illuminates our path." As Aresius spoke, he felt a sense of vulnerability wash over him, an openness he rarely allowed himself to embrace. It was as if the presence of Azena had awakened a dormant part of his being, urging him to delve into the depths of their shared understanding. "I implore you, Azena, to share with me your deepest insights, your most profound revelations," he continued, his voice filled with a mix of anticipation and reverence. "Let us embark on a journey together, unraveling the intricacies of our existence and forging a connection that transcends the boundaries of our individual domains. In this convergence of war and wisdom, we may discover a profound truth that has eluded us both." Aresius held his breath, his heart pounding with anticipation. The ball continued to swirl around them, but at that moment, it seemed insignificant compared to the connection he hoped to establish with Azena. He awaited her response, eager to dive into the depths of her wisdom and unravel the secrets that lay within. |
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Darkseeker
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Centuries of knowledge swirled within her as she stared at Aresius. Not often did she truly have to delve into the deepest parts of her knowledge, and yet, this God before her had provoked her to do so. It was not uncommon for Gods and mortals alike to approach her for the wisdom she held. Yet, only to help aid them in their own personal affairs. Never before had a creature approached her simply to talk about her wisdom.
The complexity of their existence had remained a thorn in the Goddess' side for centuries. As she had always been interested to know why they were created. Why the Gods, mortals, and other creatures that inhabited the world had been created. What was their purpose? The mortals may even have a bigger purpose then the Gods, after all they lived their life and then passed into the Underworld. While the Gods? They lived an immortal life. She did suppose they were there to keep order in the world.
Azena bobs her head in agreement, their purpose on the world would most likely remain unknown for the rest of history. Even the Fates could not tell the Gods. Azena had tried, she had spent many conversations with the three Fates to see what they knew. And in their odd and mysterious talk, Azena had learned nothing about what she wished to learn. She had learned of other wisdom, but none had satisfied her.
"Many revelations lie within the wisdom that I carry. Many that your mind surely cannot comprehend." The Goddess did not mean to be insulting with those words. It was simply the truth. The Goddess could tell the God many of the wisdom she beheld, and yet, his mind surely could not comprehend it.
It was not that she did not wish to share the knowledge she held, after all, isn't that one reason she had such knowledge? It was that most of the knowledge she held was beyond the Gods and mortals understanding, and she felt the conversation would be pointless. So, the Goddess reverses the question. "Tell me, what wisdom do you carry?" She was curious to know of the wisdom that the God of War had.
Azena tips her head as she watches her words sink into Aresius mind. Listening as he speaks, her eyes filled with a certain curiosity on how he would take her words. "Indeed. Without the power of knowledge, this world would cease to exist." The mortals would wander around with no purpose and no wisdom to guide them through their days. While the Gods would most likely end up in the same position, wandering around with no wisdom to guide them through their long immortal lives.
Azena inclines her head ever so slightly, a small smile curving her lips upward. So, it seemed she had finally met a God who understood the true meaning and power of wisdom. While the others respected it and listened to it, none had ever truly understood it. And yet, the God before her seemed to understand it pretty good.
As the God asks her to share more of her wisdom, Azena agrees. "Very well." Her eyes leave the God, moving to scan the ball. Was the ball the best place to get into such a conversation. "However, I do not wish to dive into such knowledge here." Her nose wrinkles slightly in disgust,"As I despise balls, I do not wish to have such a pleasant conversation in such a terrible location." |
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Winter 
Day 
Fog
