Duty and distance

You gather your clothing and dress, still somewhat in a daze. When you finish, the room swims in your vision once again, and you stagger slightly as you find yourself back in the room with the girls. Ferra is there to steady you immediately, and you see Poena is seated in her chair again. You see some knowing grins on some of the girls faces as everyone sits down again. Looking around, you notice a few absences, however.

Poena answers your question before you can ask. “Those who have chosen not to join in your ascension have been returned. The general is with your army, and the pair has returned to the distant city. As for the elemental and the succubus…they are indulging as we did.”

Cassie giggles. “Alex said she wanted to have some alone time with Lilith.”

You roll your eyes. “I should have expected that.”

Poena shrugs. “It matters not. Simply relay this information to them when they finish.”

You nod. “Right. Go on.”

Sarah laughs. “Yeah, they’re probably going to be a while.”

There’s a ghost of a smile on Poena’s face as she continues. “As you say. Regardless, the ritual has been completed, and it extends to all here. Age and disease will no longer touch you. Should you manage to get yourself killed, you will revive within a day.”

She looks at you. “However, as a Perpetual, you must not become a ruler. You must remain neutral. Though I will not be present, I will be watching. A Perpetual must remain apart from their world.”

Poena smiles. “That is not to say you must become a hermit. You can have family. Friends. Attachments.”

She looks at Ferra. “Some of you will have children. They will not be blessed as you are, but rather, simply mortal. Watch them closely, as this can cause jealousy and anger.”

Poena looks back to you. “I know you will do well, my champion. This is a reward, though it comes with responsibility. I wish you luck.”

You nod. “I will do my best.”

She smiles. “I am sure. Now, I must go. Take care, my champion. You and your companions will be left in the capital. I have taken a few steps to aid you, but I think you will be fine.”

Her form fades, replaced by the glowing ball of light you first saw, and her voice echoes in your mind.

Celebrate, and enjoy. You have saved your world. Now is your time to rest. I will be watching from afar, and we will meet again, my champion.

There’s a blinding flash, and when you look again, Poena is gone. Everyone sits in silence for a moment, thinking about what has happened. Ferra takes your hand and squeezes, smiling at you. However, before anyone can speak, a side door swings open, startling you. You see Alex and Lilith walk in, looking disheveled and happy. Alex giggles, looking around at everyone watching her.