The Corruption; Pre 1st Draft
Memories flooded through his mind as he dreamt. Terrifying ones. But as suddenly as each flashed, they were gone. He could remember a fraction of it after he woke up, but it was weak. He wish he knew how to recall past memories more easily, but he didn’t want magical services.
‘Not after the last time,’ Eilis thought to himself as he rubbed the long line of scar on his head, leading to the back of the head. He grabbed his hairbrush, brushing the hair into place to hide the scar, and used some hairspray to hold it in place.
He put on his favourite work uniform, a red lacy lingerie, with a blue and red shawl with gold embellishments. He spent a good 10 minutes putting on elaborate makeup with a dramatic wing and little flowers small as moles decorate his face.
Sometimes he wished he could dream forever, learn how to have lucid dreams for real, but right now he’s feeling okay inside, like it’s good to live, so it’s alright. He’s happy to be doing something that doesn’t upset him for once. Sometimes he just needs a neutral event in his life.
He triple checked that he had his purse, and left his house, getting onto his motorised tricycle and driving down the highway. He hummed to the music playing in his mind thanks to the chip in his head.
After an hour of driving he finally made it to the city, staying at the outer skirts as he pulled into the parking place for his job, parking in his favourite spot under a tree and he walked inside.
The Plainsworn Brothel was rather busy today with the line of folk at the front desk. Eilis grinned seeing them as he waved to the front desk attendant, walking behind the scenes of the brothel. Gyala woke up in a cold sweat from the dream he had. The, nightmare? He couldn’t quite remember what it was, he just knew it was disturbing. He turned to face his large mirror, the “I just woke up” expression plastered on his face.
He wasn’t exactly upset at being awake, he knew today was going to work out fine. Today, he graduates and becomes a Saint, and he couldn’t be more proud of himself. He stretched as he got out of bed, walking over to his closet to retrieve his favourite blue dress and shawl.
He was glad his bunk mates were out already, he always found them a little strange. Cultish and dogmatic. Despite the spiralling depression slowly gripping at him, he was happy the way he hummed, his hooves beating to a rhythm as he walked out of the dorm area.
Hours passed before finally he found himself in a copse with a large altar, the High Luminary Mor Luthien stood, his expression unreadable as he witnessed Gyala approach. His markings glittered subtly under the warm rays of the setting sun.
Mor Luthien raised a torch as he spoke: "Before the fading light of day, we gather here in sacred unity to witness the ascension of Gyala, who has proven himself worthy of sainthood. May his soul shine with the brilliance of the stars,” he said before lowering the torch near both sides of his shoulders, and then tracing a halo around his head.
The witnesses of the past, present, and future all stepped forward in unison, with the witness of the past saying: "By the memories of what has been, may you honour our shared legacy.” He then tied a bracelet decorated with petrified wood around his wrist.
He stepped back as the witness of the present stepped forward, saying: "By the strength of this moment, may you carry the light of truth." She then tied a bracelet made with garnet around his wrist.
Then the witness of the future stepped forward. "By the promise of what will come, may you forge a path of hope,” she said, tying a bracelet made with moonstone around his wrist, and handing him a large piece of moonstone.
Gyala smiled as he took the moonstone, facing Mor Luthien before approaching him.
He placed the moonstone down on the altar as Mor Luthien raised the torch. The light from it reflected on the moonstone, bathing the copse in a radiant display of shines and shimmers as the sun dips below the horizon. He then knelt before the altar, reciting his vow with practised ease: "By the stars that guide us and the light that binds us, I pledge my soul to the Starhaven Pantheon. May my actions bring harmony to the cosmos and safeguard what is sacred."
As he spoke, the moonstone shattered into fragments, a golden wisp forming from it as it attached itself to Gyala, creating intricate space themed patterns all over his body, but especially his face. He closed his eyes to take in the spiritual energy flowing within him, creating supreme bliss.
Mor Luthien rolled his eyes subtly, readying something in his hand. He put on a fake smile as the glowing subsided, and Gyala opened his eyes, his pupils now the shape of a four-sided star.
“On behalf of the High Luminary, we welcome you. May you shine brightly as the stars guiding your life,” he said, helping Gyala up, and handing him a letter. “Open this up when you get back to your dorm,” he whispered.
Gyala raised an eyebrow, but nodded in compliance. It wouldn’t take long for him to get back to the dorm. Usually he’d be happy to not see his bunk mates, but he’s got a weird feeling about this letter. He could smell the magic radiating off of it. It left burning taste in his mouth. He sighed as he opened it, He furrowed his brow deeply, heart beating fast. “But I… Lady Triselle-“ before he could say anything else, the letter suddenly bursted into flames, leaving no trace of its existence. He flinched, quickly pulling his hands away before he could be burned.
“What the fuck?” He muttered. “I- there’s- this has to be a prank, right?” He cried out shakily, running out of the room. He ran towards Luthien’s office, attempting to rush in only to find the door locked and the lights off. He turned around to see his professor Moonlit Dawn, and ran up to him.
“Woah woah, is everything okay? What’s going on?” He asked, placing a hand on his shoulder in concern.
Gyala breathed heavily for a bit from all the running before replying: “I just got a suspicious letter from Mor Luthien about aiding Aionexus by kidnapping some innocent satyr. It exploded into fire after I read it!” He cried out.
He stared at Gyala for a bit, shock plastered on his face. “So it’s happening.. I, I thought it wouldn’t,” he murmured, removing his hand as he thought.
“Didn’t think what would happen?”
“Gyala, you know how I’m an oracle, right? And how my visions aren’t always correct?” Gyala nodded. “Well, this is one of the visions I had. That you’d get a letter from a High Luminary to do such a thing. But if that happened.. oh dear,” he stared at the floor. “Gyala, whatever you do, don’t let them bully you into submission. If Eilis ends up in their clutches, it’ll mean the end of the world as we know it.”
His eyes widened. “What should I do?”
“Find Eilis, and protect him with your life. I’ll try and find a way to meet with the other High Luminaries, but right now, just go find Eilis and warn him what’s happening.”
“Where can I find him?”
“He’s in Cairnwood, Illyria. He works in the Plainsworth Brothel.”
Gyala blushed. “A brothel? It’s gonna be very awkward trying to explain his life is in danger in a crowded establishment like that. But there’s no way I’m going to make the train before midnight.”
“You’ll be fine, just take it in the morning. I won’t tell a word about where you’re going.”
“Alright. Will you meet me there if I need assistance?”
“I’ll try, but I can’t guarantee anything. For now, take my number,” he said, transferring his phone number to Gyala’s contact list. “Text me updates daily, and especially if you get into trouble.”
Gyala nodded. “Thank you for your help. I should get packing I suppose,” he said, nervously rubbing the nape of his neck as he waved goodbye to the professor and rushed back to his dorm room.
He grabbed his bag that he arrived with, stuffing it with clothes. He also put in some snacks that he’d set aside, and his magical equipment. Normally it wouldn’t fit a regular bag, but Gyala was lucky to get it enchanted to be endless.
He took one last look around his room, making sure he didn’t need anything else, before he left and rushed out of the academy.
Early morning soon came as Gyala stepped on the train that would take him to Illyria, sighing as he sat all the way in the back row. He was rather nervous to be going across the ocean. He knew it wouldn’t be a long trip when over the water, but still, the idea of something going wrong in the middle of a watery grave ate at him. If something did happen, he doesn’t have any training for his saintly magical abilities. But he tried to not let the idea get the best of him as he noticed a young girl staring at him. He cracked a smile, waving hello.
She waved back before running off and giggling. She had returned a few minutes later with her mother. “So she was right, you are a Saint! I’m sorry to bother you, but, may I get a blessing? This year just hasn’t been going well for me,” she murmured, looking down.
Gyala’s smiled softened. “I’d love to, which goddess would you like me to pray to for you? Any specific topics?”
She thought for a second. “Hmm, maybe whoever your patron goddess is? And I suppose about losing my husband.”
He nodded, holding out his hands for her to hold. He raised his head to the heavens while she lowered hers. “O luminous Aeshþa, Goddess of the endless aether, bearer of change,
Draw near to your grieving daughter.
In this hour of shadow, cradle her heart in your boundless expanse.
Grant her strength to face the storm of what is,
And courage to step into the unknown of what will be.
Let your celestial light guide her path,
As she holds her children close,
And seeks to rebuild amidst the void left behind.
May your winds of change bring not fear but renewal,
And may your stars remind her
That even in the vastness, she is never truly alone.
Aeshþa, weave hope into her days,
And peace into her nights,
For she walks forward now, carried by your grace.
So mote it be.”
“So mote it be,” she repeated, tears in her eyes as she squeezed them shut. She opened them to meet his empathetic gaze. “Thank you, this feels like a good omen. Killian was always fond of Aeshþa.”
“I may not be an oracle, but I just know you two are going to have a very happy afterlife together, as long as you take care of little Sarah,” he said.
She beamed, nodding with renewed vigour. “I promise to you and everyone else that I’ll be the best mother. Thank you! What’s your name?”
“I’m Mor Pinewood,” he said, though it felt odd to introduce himself in such a formal way, “but you can call me Gyala,” he finished. “Thank you, Gyala, for everything. I won’t forget this,” she said before walking off.
Gyala smiled as she walked off. He was excited over doing his first blessing for another person as a Saint, he seemed to relax during the ride, even when the train derailed from land and started hovering over the water. He could never get used to the bumpiness from the transition, but he’s glad everything had been smoothing sailing so far.
The rest of the ride went well without a hitch, and he stretched as he stepped out of the train, the other passengers allowing him to step off first. He thanked everyone, giving a short prayer before he spun around on his hooves and began walking east. Checking the map on his wrist phone, he saw that Cairnwood wasn’t as far as he feared. Still though, he’d need to catch the bus, and had the map guide him to the nearest bus shelter. He hummed as he walked, and sat when reaching the shelter. It was beginning to sprinkle out so he was glad to reach the shelter when he did. He noticed as people stared at him, most with awe, some with disdain, though he paid it no mind as he was thinking about what exactly he’s going to say to Eilis.
After half an hour of waiting the bus came and he promptly boarded it, greeting the bus driver as he sat right behind him.
“What’s a Saint doing so far out in the country? Got family you’re visiting?” The driver asked with a smile as he closed the door and began driving.
“Uh, yeah,” he lied with an awkward chuckle. “My parents still live in Cairnwood. I moved out when I realised I wanted to be a Saint. They’ve been very supportive of me.”
“I’m glad to hear that they’re supportive. I’m sure being a Saint is no easy feat.”
“Tell me about it! I’m not very athletic so I almost didn’t get picked to become one. But I just ascended last night, actually.”
“Really? Congratulations to you then.”
They exchanged pleasantries for the rest of the hour long ride, telling each other family stories and such. He dropped a few coins in the drop box before walking off.
“Appreciate the tip! Hope to you soon,” he said before driving off.
Thankfully where he was dropped off wasn’t far off from the brothel. He noticed it was just opening as people were lined up and walking in. “I guess it’s popular. Good for them,” he said, heading up the road to join the line. He felt a bit awkward walking in the line, especially with the people staring at him. He couldn’t tell if they were judging or not.
After what felt like an eternity, Gyala finally made it to the front where he approached the attendant. “Good morning. I’m looking for a satyr named Eilis, does he work here? It’s urgent that I talk to him.”
“He does, he’s probably our most popular prostitute here,” she chuckled. “Always knows how to push ya buttons,” she imitated pushing a button. “But you’re gonna have to wait, Eilis is very specific with his scheduling. Interrupt him now and his whole day will be thrown off. Though, I suppose since you’re a Saint I could always squeeze you in,” she hummed, taking a look at her computer. “Ah yes, I can fit you in an hour from now. I’ll just need you to fill out this form so we’re can make it all official. Boss doesn’t like us being “distracted” from our work,” she said, handing him a tablet.
He cleared his throat. “Ah, thank you. I appreciate it,” he said, taking a seat near the desk as he filled out the form full of very specific questions and detailed questions that made him flustered. He sighed upon reaching the end as he got to the notes section. He made it clear he was only looking to talk, no “fun times”, before he handed the tablet back to the front desk.
“Thank you, dear! Someone will be out soon to call you back. Whatever you need to talk to him about, best of luck to you,” she said with a smile.
Gyala returned the smile and nodded before he returned to his seat. It only took a few minutes of waiting before he heard his name being called. He stood up and walked over to the staff member that called his name.
She blushed upon seeing him. “Oh I can just tell Eilis is going to love you. Follow me~” she cooed, leading him down a long hallway before they reached a room at the back.
The room exuded an intoxicating blend of elegance and intimacy, a room created for temporary lovers to embrace in their own world. Soft, golden light spilled from a grand crystal chandelier, its facets casting delicate patterns on the walls, which were draped in rich, velvet curtains the color of deep burgundy wine. The bed, a sprawling four-poster masterpiece, was dressed in layers of silk sheets and an opulent duvet, adorned with an array of plush pillows in shades of crimson and gold.
Opposite the bed, a marble fireplace crackled softly, its flames a flickering dance of warmth and light, adding a sensual glow to the room. Above the mantle hung an ornate mirror, its edges gilded and glimmering in the firelight. The air carried a subtle hint of rose and sandalwood, the result of candles strategically placed around the room, their soft flames amplifying the romantic atmosphere. In one corner, a vintage cabinet offered chilled champagne and crystal flutes, alongside an assortment of artisanal chocolates and exotic fruits. Nearby, a luxurious rug covered the polished hardwood floor.
Everything about the room was designed to cocoon its inhabitants in romance, to slow time, and to remind them that in this space, nothing existed but them and their passion.
In the middle of it all was Eilis, poised perfectly on the bed to make Gyala blush like a tomato. “I know you said you wanted to talk- but I really want a taste of you,” he said, climbing out of bed and approaching Gyala.
“I-I uh, it’s urgent, please, your life is in danger,” he pleaded.
“I can’t be in that much danger if you’re currently in my presence. I promise we’ll have plenty time to talk,” he said, kissing Gyala underneath his chin, making his mind race and tingle.
“I didn’t put any of my interests on the form, how’d you know...?” He trailed off as Eilis gently guided him to the bed.
“I’ve never been one for magic, but I’ve a supernatural knack of knowing what people like. Like for example, I can sense you like hugging people!” He said, wrapping his arms around him, making him sit on the bed with him.
Gyala couldn’t help but purr and lean into it, careful to not stab him with his antlers. “If, if we uh, do it, do you promise to talk after?”
“Of course. I’ll take whatever you have to say seriously. Though if it’s reaaaally important, I suppose we can skip the-“
“No no, it’s fine. I’m down,” Gyala interrupted. Eilis chuckled before pulling the curtains to the bed closed.
“So, you said my life is in danger? What’s happening?” Eilis asked casually as he dressed himself.
“Where to start.. Gods. Well, Aionexus supposedly wants you sacrificed in his name. According to Mor Luthien, anyways.”
“Luthien? Isn’t he one of the High Luminary?”
“Yes. He wrote me a letter demanding that I capture you and take you to him. I guess they think you have some kind of power that he feels is a threat to their cult.”
“Why’d you go along with it?”
“I’m not. I’m here to protect you until we can get in contact with the Goddesses themselves.”
“I see. I’m sure this is going to completely reroute my life- what’s your plan to protect me?”
“I don’t have a full plan yet. But for now I’m going to try to keep you here so you can keep doing what you need to, I just ask you reduce how much you go out until the situation is handled.”
“Alright, I can do that. Well, as long as I can still get my spa treatments. Is the only thing keeping me sane in this world,” he sighed dramatically, resting his chin on his hand.
“Uh.. I suppose. I’d probably have to accompany you if that’s okay.”
“The more the merrier~ I could always use a spa buddy,” he cooed, drumming his fingers on Gyala’s arm lightly.
He blushed. “I wouldn’t be joining you, I need to be on guard to protect you. Though maybe after it’s over..” he thought for a bit. Eilis chuckled, “Alright, sounds like a plan.”
“I’m a little surprised with how well you’re handling this information. I figured you’d be terrified.”
“Not the first time my life was in danger. I used to be in the military- Cybernetics Division Omega to be specific.”
“Really? I never would’ve guessed,” he said, shocked.
“I know, it’s not often military workers get into seeking sex, but I like it a lot better. I realised taking lives just wasn’t for me. They do let me keep my silent dart pistol, though, which I’m happy about. Good for taking out customers who don’t know how to respect boundaries.”
‘Not after the last time,’ Eilis thought to himself as he rubbed the long line of scar on his head, leading to the back of the head. He grabbed his hairbrush, brushing the hair into place to hide the scar, and used some hairspray to hold it in place.
He put on his favourite work uniform, a red lacy lingerie, with a blue and red shawl with gold embellishments. He spent a good 10 minutes putting on elaborate makeup with a dramatic wing and little flowers small as moles decorate his face.
Sometimes he wished he could dream forever, learn how to have lucid dreams for real, but right now he’s feeling okay inside, like it’s good to live, so it’s alright. He’s happy to be doing something that doesn’t upset him for once. Sometimes he just needs a neutral event in his life.
He triple checked that he had his purse, and left his house, getting onto his motorised tricycle and driving down the highway. He hummed to the music playing in his mind thanks to the chip in his head.
After an hour of driving he finally made it to the city, staying at the outer skirts as he pulled into the parking place for his job, parking in his favourite spot under a tree and he walked inside.
The Plainsworn Brothel was rather busy today with the line of folk at the front desk. Eilis grinned seeing them as he waved to the front desk attendant, walking behind the scenes of the brothel. Gyala woke up in a cold sweat from the dream he had. The, nightmare? He couldn’t quite remember what it was, he just knew it was disturbing. He turned to face his large mirror, the “I just woke up” expression plastered on his face.
He wasn’t exactly upset at being awake, he knew today was going to work out fine. Today, he graduates and becomes a Saint, and he couldn’t be more proud of himself. He stretched as he got out of bed, walking over to his closet to retrieve his favourite blue dress and shawl.
He was glad his bunk mates were out already, he always found them a little strange. Cultish and dogmatic. Despite the spiralling depression slowly gripping at him, he was happy the way he hummed, his hooves beating to a rhythm as he walked out of the dorm area.
Hours passed before finally he found himself in a copse with a large altar, the High Luminary Mor Luthien stood, his expression unreadable as he witnessed Gyala approach. His markings glittered subtly under the warm rays of the setting sun.
Mor Luthien raised a torch as he spoke: "Before the fading light of day, we gather here in sacred unity to witness the ascension of Gyala, who has proven himself worthy of sainthood. May his soul shine with the brilliance of the stars,” he said before lowering the torch near both sides of his shoulders, and then tracing a halo around his head.
The witnesses of the past, present, and future all stepped forward in unison, with the witness of the past saying: "By the memories of what has been, may you honour our shared legacy.” He then tied a bracelet decorated with petrified wood around his wrist.
He stepped back as the witness of the present stepped forward, saying: "By the strength of this moment, may you carry the light of truth." She then tied a bracelet made with garnet around his wrist.
Then the witness of the future stepped forward. "By the promise of what will come, may you forge a path of hope,” she said, tying a bracelet made with moonstone around his wrist, and handing him a large piece of moonstone.
Gyala smiled as he took the moonstone, facing Mor Luthien before approaching him.
He placed the moonstone down on the altar as Mor Luthien raised the torch. The light from it reflected on the moonstone, bathing the copse in a radiant display of shines and shimmers as the sun dips below the horizon. He then knelt before the altar, reciting his vow with practised ease: "By the stars that guide us and the light that binds us, I pledge my soul to the Starhaven Pantheon. May my actions bring harmony to the cosmos and safeguard what is sacred."
As he spoke, the moonstone shattered into fragments, a golden wisp forming from it as it attached itself to Gyala, creating intricate space themed patterns all over his body, but especially his face. He closed his eyes to take in the spiritual energy flowing within him, creating supreme bliss.
Mor Luthien rolled his eyes subtly, readying something in his hand. He put on a fake smile as the glowing subsided, and Gyala opened his eyes, his pupils now the shape of a four-sided star.
“On behalf of the High Luminary, we welcome you. May you shine brightly as the stars guiding your life,” he said, helping Gyala up, and handing him a letter. “Open this up when you get back to your dorm,” he whispered.
Gyala raised an eyebrow, but nodded in compliance. It wouldn’t take long for him to get back to the dorm. Usually he’d be happy to not see his bunk mates, but he’s got a weird feeling about this letter. He could smell the magic radiating off of it. It left burning taste in his mouth. He sighed as he opened it, He furrowed his brow deeply, heart beating fast. “But I… Lady Triselle-“ before he could say anything else, the letter suddenly bursted into flames, leaving no trace of its existence. He flinched, quickly pulling his hands away before he could be burned.
“What the fuck?” He muttered. “I- there’s- this has to be a prank, right?” He cried out shakily, running out of the room. He ran towards Luthien’s office, attempting to rush in only to find the door locked and the lights off. He turned around to see his professor Moonlit Dawn, and ran up to him.
“Woah woah, is everything okay? What’s going on?” He asked, placing a hand on his shoulder in concern.
Gyala breathed heavily for a bit from all the running before replying: “I just got a suspicious letter from Mor Luthien about aiding Aionexus by kidnapping some innocent satyr. It exploded into fire after I read it!” He cried out.
He stared at Gyala for a bit, shock plastered on his face. “So it’s happening.. I, I thought it wouldn’t,” he murmured, removing his hand as he thought.
“Didn’t think what would happen?”
“Gyala, you know how I’m an oracle, right? And how my visions aren’t always correct?” Gyala nodded. “Well, this is one of the visions I had. That you’d get a letter from a High Luminary to do such a thing. But if that happened.. oh dear,” he stared at the floor. “Gyala, whatever you do, don’t let them bully you into submission. If Eilis ends up in their clutches, it’ll mean the end of the world as we know it.”
His eyes widened. “What should I do?”
“Find Eilis, and protect him with your life. I’ll try and find a way to meet with the other High Luminaries, but right now, just go find Eilis and warn him what’s happening.”
“Where can I find him?”
“He’s in Cairnwood, Illyria. He works in the Plainsworth Brothel.”
Gyala blushed. “A brothel? It’s gonna be very awkward trying to explain his life is in danger in a crowded establishment like that. But there’s no way I’m going to make the train before midnight.”
“You’ll be fine, just take it in the morning. I won’t tell a word about where you’re going.”
“Alright. Will you meet me there if I need assistance?”
“I’ll try, but I can’t guarantee anything. For now, take my number,” he said, transferring his phone number to Gyala’s contact list. “Text me updates daily, and especially if you get into trouble.”
Gyala nodded. “Thank you for your help. I should get packing I suppose,” he said, nervously rubbing the nape of his neck as he waved goodbye to the professor and rushed back to his dorm room.
He grabbed his bag that he arrived with, stuffing it with clothes. He also put in some snacks that he’d set aside, and his magical equipment. Normally it wouldn’t fit a regular bag, but Gyala was lucky to get it enchanted to be endless.
He took one last look around his room, making sure he didn’t need anything else, before he left and rushed out of the academy.
Early morning soon came as Gyala stepped on the train that would take him to Illyria, sighing as he sat all the way in the back row. He was rather nervous to be going across the ocean. He knew it wouldn’t be a long trip when over the water, but still, the idea of something going wrong in the middle of a watery grave ate at him. If something did happen, he doesn’t have any training for his saintly magical abilities. But he tried to not let the idea get the best of him as he noticed a young girl staring at him. He cracked a smile, waving hello.
She waved back before running off and giggling. She had returned a few minutes later with her mother. “So she was right, you are a Saint! I’m sorry to bother you, but, may I get a blessing? This year just hasn’t been going well for me,” she murmured, looking down.
Gyala’s smiled softened. “I’d love to, which goddess would you like me to pray to for you? Any specific topics?”
She thought for a second. “Hmm, maybe whoever your patron goddess is? And I suppose about losing my husband.”
He nodded, holding out his hands for her to hold. He raised his head to the heavens while she lowered hers. “O luminous Aeshþa, Goddess of the endless aether, bearer of change,
Draw near to your grieving daughter.
In this hour of shadow, cradle her heart in your boundless expanse.
Grant her strength to face the storm of what is,
And courage to step into the unknown of what will be.
Let your celestial light guide her path,
As she holds her children close,
And seeks to rebuild amidst the void left behind.
May your winds of change bring not fear but renewal,
And may your stars remind her
That even in the vastness, she is never truly alone.
Aeshþa, weave hope into her days,
And peace into her nights,
For she walks forward now, carried by your grace.
So mote it be.”
“So mote it be,” she repeated, tears in her eyes as she squeezed them shut. She opened them to meet his empathetic gaze. “Thank you, this feels like a good omen. Killian was always fond of Aeshþa.”
“I may not be an oracle, but I just know you two are going to have a very happy afterlife together, as long as you take care of little Sarah,” he said.
She beamed, nodding with renewed vigour. “I promise to you and everyone else that I’ll be the best mother. Thank you! What’s your name?”
“I’m Mor Pinewood,” he said, though it felt odd to introduce himself in such a formal way, “but you can call me Gyala,” he finished. “Thank you, Gyala, for everything. I won’t forget this,” she said before walking off.
Gyala smiled as she walked off. He was excited over doing his first blessing for another person as a Saint, he seemed to relax during the ride, even when the train derailed from land and started hovering over the water. He could never get used to the bumpiness from the transition, but he’s glad everything had been smoothing sailing so far.
The rest of the ride went well without a hitch, and he stretched as he stepped out of the train, the other passengers allowing him to step off first. He thanked everyone, giving a short prayer before he spun around on his hooves and began walking east. Checking the map on his wrist phone, he saw that Cairnwood wasn’t as far as he feared. Still though, he’d need to catch the bus, and had the map guide him to the nearest bus shelter. He hummed as he walked, and sat when reaching the shelter. It was beginning to sprinkle out so he was glad to reach the shelter when he did. He noticed as people stared at him, most with awe, some with disdain, though he paid it no mind as he was thinking about what exactly he’s going to say to Eilis.
After half an hour of waiting the bus came and he promptly boarded it, greeting the bus driver as he sat right behind him.
“What’s a Saint doing so far out in the country? Got family you’re visiting?” The driver asked with a smile as he closed the door and began driving.
“Uh, yeah,” he lied with an awkward chuckle. “My parents still live in Cairnwood. I moved out when I realised I wanted to be a Saint. They’ve been very supportive of me.”
“I’m glad to hear that they’re supportive. I’m sure being a Saint is no easy feat.”
“Tell me about it! I’m not very athletic so I almost didn’t get picked to become one. But I just ascended last night, actually.”
“Really? Congratulations to you then.”
They exchanged pleasantries for the rest of the hour long ride, telling each other family stories and such. He dropped a few coins in the drop box before walking off.
“Appreciate the tip! Hope to you soon,” he said before driving off.
Thankfully where he was dropped off wasn’t far off from the brothel. He noticed it was just opening as people were lined up and walking in. “I guess it’s popular. Good for them,” he said, heading up the road to join the line. He felt a bit awkward walking in the line, especially with the people staring at him. He couldn’t tell if they were judging or not.
After what felt like an eternity, Gyala finally made it to the front where he approached the attendant. “Good morning. I’m looking for a satyr named Eilis, does he work here? It’s urgent that I talk to him.”
“He does, he’s probably our most popular prostitute here,” she chuckled. “Always knows how to push ya buttons,” she imitated pushing a button. “But you’re gonna have to wait, Eilis is very specific with his scheduling. Interrupt him now and his whole day will be thrown off. Though, I suppose since you’re a Saint I could always squeeze you in,” she hummed, taking a look at her computer. “Ah yes, I can fit you in an hour from now. I’ll just need you to fill out this form so we’re can make it all official. Boss doesn’t like us being “distracted” from our work,” she said, handing him a tablet.
He cleared his throat. “Ah, thank you. I appreciate it,” he said, taking a seat near the desk as he filled out the form full of very specific questions and detailed questions that made him flustered. He sighed upon reaching the end as he got to the notes section. He made it clear he was only looking to talk, no “fun times”, before he handed the tablet back to the front desk.
“Thank you, dear! Someone will be out soon to call you back. Whatever you need to talk to him about, best of luck to you,” she said with a smile.
Gyala returned the smile and nodded before he returned to his seat. It only took a few minutes of waiting before he heard his name being called. He stood up and walked over to the staff member that called his name.
She blushed upon seeing him. “Oh I can just tell Eilis is going to love you. Follow me~” she cooed, leading him down a long hallway before they reached a room at the back.
The room exuded an intoxicating blend of elegance and intimacy, a room created for temporary lovers to embrace in their own world. Soft, golden light spilled from a grand crystal chandelier, its facets casting delicate patterns on the walls, which were draped in rich, velvet curtains the color of deep burgundy wine. The bed, a sprawling four-poster masterpiece, was dressed in layers of silk sheets and an opulent duvet, adorned with an array of plush pillows in shades of crimson and gold.
Opposite the bed, a marble fireplace crackled softly, its flames a flickering dance of warmth and light, adding a sensual glow to the room. Above the mantle hung an ornate mirror, its edges gilded and glimmering in the firelight. The air carried a subtle hint of rose and sandalwood, the result of candles strategically placed around the room, their soft flames amplifying the romantic atmosphere. In one corner, a vintage cabinet offered chilled champagne and crystal flutes, alongside an assortment of artisanal chocolates and exotic fruits. Nearby, a luxurious rug covered the polished hardwood floor.
Everything about the room was designed to cocoon its inhabitants in romance, to slow time, and to remind them that in this space, nothing existed but them and their passion.
In the middle of it all was Eilis, poised perfectly on the bed to make Gyala blush like a tomato. “I know you said you wanted to talk- but I really want a taste of you,” he said, climbing out of bed and approaching Gyala.
“I-I uh, it’s urgent, please, your life is in danger,” he pleaded.
“I can’t be in that much danger if you’re currently in my presence. I promise we’ll have plenty time to talk,” he said, kissing Gyala underneath his chin, making his mind race and tingle.
“I didn’t put any of my interests on the form, how’d you know...?” He trailed off as Eilis gently guided him to the bed.
“I’ve never been one for magic, but I’ve a supernatural knack of knowing what people like. Like for example, I can sense you like hugging people!” He said, wrapping his arms around him, making him sit on the bed with him.
Gyala couldn’t help but purr and lean into it, careful to not stab him with his antlers. “If, if we uh, do it, do you promise to talk after?”
“Of course. I’ll take whatever you have to say seriously. Though if it’s reaaaally important, I suppose we can skip the-“
“No no, it’s fine. I’m down,” Gyala interrupted. Eilis chuckled before pulling the curtains to the bed closed.
“So, you said my life is in danger? What’s happening?” Eilis asked casually as he dressed himself.
“Where to start.. Gods. Well, Aionexus supposedly wants you sacrificed in his name. According to Mor Luthien, anyways.”
“Luthien? Isn’t he one of the High Luminary?”
“Yes. He wrote me a letter demanding that I capture you and take you to him. I guess they think you have some kind of power that he feels is a threat to their cult.”
“Why’d you go along with it?”
“I’m not. I’m here to protect you until we can get in contact with the Goddesses themselves.”
“I see. I’m sure this is going to completely reroute my life- what’s your plan to protect me?”
“I don’t have a full plan yet. But for now I’m going to try to keep you here so you can keep doing what you need to, I just ask you reduce how much you go out until the situation is handled.”
“Alright, I can do that. Well, as long as I can still get my spa treatments. Is the only thing keeping me sane in this world,” he sighed dramatically, resting his chin on his hand.
“Uh.. I suppose. I’d probably have to accompany you if that’s okay.”
“The more the merrier~ I could always use a spa buddy,” he cooed, drumming his fingers on Gyala’s arm lightly.
He blushed. “I wouldn’t be joining you, I need to be on guard to protect you. Though maybe after it’s over..” he thought for a bit. Eilis chuckled, “Alright, sounds like a plan.”
“I’m a little surprised with how well you’re handling this information. I figured you’d be terrified.”
“Not the first time my life was in danger. I used to be in the military- Cybernetics Division Omega to be specific.”
“Really? I never would’ve guessed,” he said, shocked.
“I know, it’s not often military workers get into seeking sex, but I like it a lot better. I realised taking lives just wasn’t for me. They do let me keep my silent dart pistol, though, which I’m happy about. Good for taking out customers who don’t know how to respect boundaries.”
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