new life stirs from the ashes

The Morningstar's cyan eyes opened at the small voice, his reflective horns catching the light once more as he turned to face the pup. The sight of Lysanias, with his mismatched red and blue eyes, tugged at something in Oath's heart - a bittersweet reminder of family lost and family still here. He took in the pup's curious expression and unfiltered tone, the demanding question bringing a faint, almost tired smile to his lips.

"Hello Lysanias," Oath greeted softly, his voice steady despite the storm within. He lowered his head to be more level with the pup, his imposing figure tempered by the gentle way he regarded his nephew. "I was speaking to the Gods," he explained simply, though his words carried weight. "I prayed for your uncle Vayne, for his peace, and for the strength to protect you and everyone else." His gaze softened, and he leaned in slightly closer, adding, "What brings you out here, little one? Are you on patrol like me, keeping us safe?"

He hadn't expected to meet his nephew like this, raw from loss and still carrying the heavy mantle of his duty, but perhaps it was fitting. The boy was part of the next generation, a reminder that even in his grief, there was something worth fighting for...