The golden bird became a speck of brilliance against the nascent sky, vanishing into a horizon that still rippled with the heat of creation. Elara watched its path, her heart syncing with the steady, tectonic heartbeat of the First Garden.
Beside her, Julian remained still, his golden plating slowly receding into his skin, replaced by the warmth of human flesh. He looked younger, the crushing weight of centuries of duty finally purged from his posture.
For a long time, the only sound was the rustle of silver-leafed trees that were rapidly colonizing the valley. But the silence did not feel empty. It felt expectant.
I thought it would be quieter, Julian said, his voice soft. I expected the end of the war to leave us in a void, not a beginning.
Elara walked to the edge of the clearing
