Zavien
One more set of eyes goes unnoticed. Everyone is watching him, taking their cues on how to process this, whether to panic or not, what direction to go. He can't fail now. He can't falter. His people are depending on him, and if he breaks now, the memories of Stormbreak's last days will be filled with fear and despair rather than calm sorrow. He can't relax or it might all fall apart - he might fall apart.
Pasting a sympathetic smile on his face, he reassures another couple of the plans in place, the contingencies and procedures being developed to ensure that everyone gets off in a timely manner - with as much of their life in tow as possible. Their lives aren't over, just shifting. New opportunities will arise, and they'll be able to grow without the shadows of past failures to diminish what they build. They can remember Stormbreak fondly and cherish the bonds they've formed in the safety of a new home.
They're words he's said a thousand time, sentiments he's offered along with a sliver of hope from his own stores. He believes every word and does what he can to encourage others to celebrate the city for it was rather than mourn what will become of it. But despite his motivation and desire to be a fountain of endless hope and support, each interaction depletes his reserves, and by the time the last couple is stepping away, clinging to each other, Zavien is left exhausted and hollow.
He waits until they've stepped out of sight, until he thinks there aren't any more eyes on him before letting his shoulders slip, his smile sinking into quiet sorrow. His eyes are unfocused as they stare after the Breakers, giving him a moment where his thoughts slow and drift, a gentle current of stress and unease turning to a silent emptiness that he embraces for a single breath where no one needs him, where no one is looking.
But there's always someone watching, and he feels the gaze in the dull sensation that follows overstimulation.
Turning slowly, he prepares to rally his strength once more - until his eyes land on a familiar face that makes his heart ache. "Koa." Without thought or hesitation, he walks forward to pull his friend into a hug, gripping tight despite any dirt or grime that may threaten to come between them. It's a desperate hold full of unspoken words and emotions that can wait to be said. For now, he just appreciates having someone to hold, a shoulder to lean on for however brief the time.
Pasting a sympathetic smile on his face, he reassures another couple of the plans in place, the contingencies and procedures being developed to ensure that everyone gets off in a timely manner - with as much of their life in tow as possible. Their lives aren't over, just shifting. New opportunities will arise, and they'll be able to grow without the shadows of past failures to diminish what they build. They can remember Stormbreak fondly and cherish the bonds they've formed in the safety of a new home.
They're words he's said a thousand time, sentiments he's offered along with a sliver of hope from his own stores. He believes every word and does what he can to encourage others to celebrate the city for it was rather than mourn what will become of it. But despite his motivation and desire to be a fountain of endless hope and support, each interaction depletes his reserves, and by the time the last couple is stepping away, clinging to each other, Zavien is left exhausted and hollow.
He waits until they've stepped out of sight, until he thinks there aren't any more eyes on him before letting his shoulders slip, his smile sinking into quiet sorrow. His eyes are unfocused as they stare after the Breakers, giving him a moment where his thoughts slow and drift, a gentle current of stress and unease turning to a silent emptiness that he embraces for a single breath where no one needs him, where no one is looking.
But there's always someone watching, and he feels the gaze in the dull sensation that follows overstimulation.
Turning slowly, he prepares to rally his strength once more - until his eyes land on a familiar face that makes his heart ache. "Koa." Without thought or hesitation, he walks forward to pull his friend into a hug, gripping tight despite any dirt or grime that may threaten to come between them. It's a desperate hold full of unspoken words and emotions that can wait to be said. For now, he just appreciates having someone to hold, a shoulder to lean on for however brief the time.
It is not a bad thing
to celebrate a simple life.
to celebrate a simple life.
