The void bent around them as they arrived at the Citadel. Lucien's aura flared faintly, tendrils of energy sweeping across the immense chambers, signaling the return of the Queen of Inevitability.
A brief shimmer in the empty air transformed the Citadel's void space. The walls and floors shifted fluidly, forming a room—spacious, elegant, yet functional. A bed appeared, soft and inviting, alongside a table, chairs, a stocked fridge with nourishment, and all the trappings of comfort despite existing in a realm of pure void.
Selene stepped in, her gaze sweeping across the reconstructed space, noting both the subtle perfection of the environment and the unmistakable imprint of Lucien's presence. "You really did make it… livable," she said, voice soft but teasing.
Lucien allowed himself a faint smile, his usual cold arrogance softened slightly. "I am the Sole Exception. Even void obeys me. Comfort is trivial, but I wanted it here… for you."
Selene's lips curved in a subtle smile. "Trivial? Is that your way of saying you care?"
Lucien's violet eyes studied her, almost bemused. "You assume much." Yet the light of his aura softened as he moved closer. The two shared a quiet moment, a private warmth in the cold void. Words were exchanged, a closeness felt, though nothing more explicit was necessary—their bond was evident, absolute.
After a pause, Lucien's attention shifted. "Tell me about Arios. And the Revenants and Mirrored Six. How has he been holding up while I was… occupied?"
Selene straightened, the Queen of Inevitability speaking with measured authority. "Arios has awakened, fully integrating his system. He is learning quickly, though he still has much to grow. The estate has been under careful watch—your brother Kairo, the other Revenants, and the Mirrored Six have ensured he is both challenged and protected. He is… developing into a capable heir, though still young."
Lucien's expression softened, faint pride flickering in his violet gaze. "And his combat style? Has he begun shaping it to his own… inevitability?"
Serene and composed, Selene nodded. "Yes. He is not yet your equal—but he is learning fluidity and instinct beyond the standard. He is already far stronger than any normal being at his age. With Seraphyx guiding him, he will continue to refine both his abilities and his judgment."
Lucien allowed himself a moment of quiet, watching her. "And you? How have you been holding up, Selene? Overseeing Aetherion, ensuring his growth, handling your own burdens?"
Selene's expression softened. "It has been… difficult at times. But I have managed. You and Arios both keep me focused, and I have my own measures and networks in place. Aetherion is stable—for now. But I needed to see you, even briefly."
Lucien's gaze hardened, protective and absolute. "And now you are here. I will ensure you are never overburdened again."
She allowed a small, rare smile. "I know. That is… enough, for now."
The void around them shifted once more, now forming subtle walls and spaces where they could be together in peace, yet still commanding the Citadel. Outside, Lucien's army waited in silent readiness, aware of the arrival of the Queen of Inevitability and the consolidation of two of the most powerful beings in existence.
And in the quiet of the void, amidst the soft hum of energy and infinite potential, the two shared the rare tranquility of family reunited