once upon a time-

[deathofdespair]

There was an Ushiromiya that did not exist. One would think that Lion, being surrounded by family and friends that no longer recognized the successor, would be the epitome of depressed. However, much to her role within her family, she took it with dignity and grace. She greeted them warmly, said the least amount needed in order to not confuse them more than necessary, and moved on. Only with Natsuhi did Lion pause, and only before Kinzo did Lion stop altogether. Only for a moment, though. Only that.

Eventually, the niceties were out of the way, and Lion found herself alone for a moment; the crowds of happy relatives seemingly a distance away. It was appropriate, that thought. It was how it was in all worlds but Lion's own, and she had already come to terms with that. It was not as if she needed to lean on them for strength or support. She was perfectly capable of existing on her own.

Still being alive now proved as much.

Comments

[themotive]

Acclamation to harsh scenarios came as difficult for most beings. To be dragged away from a world of security to one of uncertainty could rattle more than a few minds. Only Voyager Witches could transition between Fragments with ease, and even they had a price to pay for their movements.

Will, therefore, was impressed that Lion stuck to composure throughout the celebrations. Though her loved ones could no longer grasp the nature of her existence, the Ushiromiya successor carried herself as always--with a quiet dignity unmatched by any other. He did not doubt the hardship that came with circumstances, but Lion had continued admirably. Therefore, he did not move to question her well-being.

That is, until he found her alone. Will dismissed himself from the good Finite Witch's presence, promising another audience with her in the future, and walked toward the lone figure.

"Doing okay?" he chanced as soon as the man was within hearing distance.

[deathofdespair]

Ah. Beg her pardon. She would retract her former statement. She was able to exist on her own--with another's assistance.

That other strode near and spoke a query, and Lion only raised her eyebrows to the sentiment. "Is there a reason I wouldn't be all right?" Rhetorical in tone, for there was nothing in this scenario that spoke of anything to be upset of--the opposite was to be begged, actually, for wherever one looked, there seemed to be a joyous crowd of people that cared about the rest. Lion breathed outward, smiled slightly as she watched. She was still herself, and seeing her family so happy.... It was nearly all she could ask for.

"It doesn't matter," she said, for his ears alone. "That I'm not remembered. If they can be like this, it's all right." Her feelings, petty and small, were irrelevant. This was far more than she could have asked for, in the end. A happy ending, if there was one.

Yes. She was happy.

[themotive]

To grace a question with another typically hinted toward a concern. Will, however, thought otherwise. If Lion saw no reason to question her state, she was fine. The man had long since understood that the young woman operated on truth, and he had nothing to worry about in regards to insincerity. Though he did not smile, Will acknowledged with a nod.

Of course, that was not all he acknowledged. "They remember you," he replied. "A part of them does, at least. A connection like family isn't so easily forgotten." Bonds were not flimsy like paper. "Even if you had only met in a single Fragment."

[deathofdespair]

Expecting silence, words came as a mild surprise. She looked at him for a moment, wondering if that was wholly true. If she could claim surprise to his nature, when it was the only constant over the past time. Finally, the successor gave a short nod, then slid a hand to her chin in thought. They remembered her, he said.

"No, it isn't," she agreed quietly, still speaking only for the man. Family was not such a poor connection to be easily forgotten. She understood this, in essence, but when faced with the reality behind it, the truth was--

Ah, but who was the one to judge truth? For all of it was claimed as perceptions in the end, and if Lion did not see a single aspect, the whole of its entirety was changed. She could consider it as such: She had only gone far, far away, and they needed to remember her. And she was sure they would, in time. In time, everything would fall together. It was a faith held, even now. Even as her presence was set nearly apart in this warm and happy party.

Again, she looked to him, a light knowing smile on her lips. "And you, Will? Are you enjoying yourself here?"