Alistair lay in bed once again, struggling to fall asleep, the past week having passed in a blur. Tomorrow's festivities loomed closer as tension mounted around the bridges, with the first ripples already observed on the surface of the strange phenomenon. Alistair had only seen the phenomenon through live recordings on the Aegis Coalition Universal Network, though reports claimed the transmissions didn’t do it justice. To him, it looked like a kaleidoscope of stars and colors he couldn’t quite describe—something that had become more common the deeper he delved into magic. Constantly shifting, morphing, distorted yet somehow orderly, it was alien to behold, even on a screen, and the structure itself was a gargantuan sphere. How any of it worked, nobody knew—and Alistair hardly cared to find out. Despite its breathtaking beauty, it was a doorway that would bring nothing but invaders and death bound to swarm their untouched universe like locusts in their greed to expand and grow their ambitions and desires.

Perhaps, in the future, it might become a gateway they could use for new opportunities, connecting them to a greater whole. But for now, these bridges were a threat to everyone in their young universe. Sotarr had murmured about a heated debate over what to call the new age once the bridges opened. Alistair, however, didn’t see why the name mattered. Honestly, he’d prefer something dull or neutral, like the Age of Stars; it would mean less trouble.

As much as he would love to strike out and slay some dragons on that volcanic world they’d discovered to grow their powers and better prepare for when the proverbial dam finally broke, he recognized that their need for powerful allies took priority. Nessyra had already made connections and arranged private meetings with various factions during the upcoming Gathering of independent factions. The Aegis Coalition had gone above and beyond in assisting the neutral factions, offering neutral sites, fleets, and personnel to ensure the safety of all parties—an offer they and their potential new allies readily accepted.

While hesitant to draw on the AC's forces at such a crucial moment, they couldn't afford to be ambushed and picked off by the Syndicates, and their potential allies shared that concern. Holding their meeting in a neutral and already well-guarded location was the best compromise. They were slated to meet in just a few days. Fifty independent factions were set to gather above the world of Sabis, one of the Coalition’s core worlds, located close to the relative center of their universe. It would represent a meeting of some of the strongest in their universe—at least, those with a favorable standing with the Aegis Coalition.

Considering the thousands of factions and worlds that had joined or supported the Coalition in one way or another, Alistair was almost surprised at how selective the invitations had been, with only fifty independent factions being invited.

Riseth turned in her sleep, and Alistair did his best to calm his mind, not wanting to disturb her. He closed his eyes, attempting to relax, letting the built-up fatigue pull him toward sleep. Slowly, he drifted off.

The next morning, they left their quarters to find the festivities already in full swing. Floating lights, banners, and colorful decorations from various cultures adorned Rathos' halls. The smell of food filled the air, even more than usual, as street vendors lined the roads, selling knickknacks, street food, and booze. Alistair noticed sound spheres scattered about, where different musicians played for crowds of varying sizes. It was a bit of a shame there wasn't universally accepted music, but since he wasn’t a bard nor had any music-related concept beyond his Akashic Sound Board—which he mostly used to either boost himself or poke fun at others using elements of the Vicious Mockery skill that had been absorbed into it—he didn’t mind too much.

"This will likely be our last chance to relax for a while," Riseth mused, locking her arm with Alistair's, a wide smile on her face. "We might as well make the best of it."

"Well then, we shouldn’t keep Nessyra and the others waiting," Alistair replied.

They made their way to Nessyra's quarters deep underground, near the TOC, where their little gathering was being held. Nessyra had opted for a luxurious Neshan underground estate. She wasn’t the only one who stayed true to her Neshan roots rather than blending them with aspects of Earth and other cultures, though she did have a few illusionary windows showing the outside world. Beyond that, her chambers closely resembled Zaltom’s from the Trial. Richly decorated in warm, dark colors, the estate underscored her heritage and her personal aesthetic preferences.

As they entered, the soft sound of jazz music greeted them, just before Akrias came barreling down the entrance corridor. The Cerberus eagerly tackled Alistair, tail wagging furiously. The large, Doberman-like creature had taken a particular liking to Alistair, especially since he could tackle him as hard as he wanted. Alistair roughhoused with the dog for a while, the three heads whining and whipping around, prancing excitedly between him and Riseth.

"Right on time! You two made it," Jessica said, peeking around the corner with a smile.

Alistair grinned, standing up as Akrias became distracted by Riseth. "Figured we'd get here a bit early."

"No need to rush. Most are already in the living room," Alistair’s mother chimed in as she walked down the corridor, carrying a pot that smelled delicious. Dexter followed closely behind, eyes locked intently on the pot.

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Before they entered the living room, Alistair released Viv. Initially confused by her new surroundings, she was visibly aghast at Akrias' presence. However, she quickly calmed down after sensing the vast power difference between them. Letting out a low growl, she sent Akrias hiding behind Riseth. Satisfied with his reaction, Viv went off to explore. Alistair then summoned King, as it would have felt wrong to leave him out even if the wyvern claimed he didn't care for gatherings like this.

Inside, they found most of their family and friends already gathered in a large circle of black couches, chatting and watching a series of hovering screens. Some displayed the Crucible, while others showed an ongoing cooking competition—of which there would be several today. One screen in particular caught Alistair's attention: a mesmerizing view of one of the bridges, with the occasional patrol fleet crossing in front of the camera. On the carpet in front of James was Teddy, Melissa's Bernese mountain dog; upon seeing them, the huge lazy lug got up to get some loving from them, too.

James looked up from a small, incredibly intricate device he had been tinkering with.

"Glad you made it. I was just about to call you to let you know the get-together was starting," he said, smiling as he set his work aside.

Alistair glanced at the device. "I'd say I'm glad you managed to tear yourself away from work, but I guess that’d be giving you too much credit," Alistair teased with a smirk.

James chuckled in response, not even attempting to defend himself as he returned his attention to the device.

Alistair let himself fall onto the dark leather couch, glancing around just in time to see Nessyra approaching. To his surprise, she wore a comfortable-looking grey woolen sweater and loose cloth pants instead of her usual prim and tight Neshan dresses and suits. It was almost out of character to see her so relaxed, making herself comfortable for once. She settled next to King, who had taken a seat at the corner of the arrangement, his eyes fixed intently on the screen displaying the ongoing fights in the Crucible.

The aroma of the food his mother had been cooking wafted over to him, mouth-watering even from where he sat. She had always been a great cook, and in Alistair’s opinion, learning magical cooking methods had only enhanced her skills. It looked like she had made goulash—one of his personal favorites. He glanced over to Riseth, who was still standing in the corridor, seemingly deep in conversation through the Akashic Link.

"Alright, if you're sure," Riseth said aloud, a small smile on her face. Next to her, a small girl with long green hair interspersed with red feathers appeared. She looked like she was in her early teens, her light skin somewhat similar to Alistair's, with features faintly resembling Riseth's but with sharper contours. Her eyes were a swirling mixture of green and yellow, with slit pupils, and she wore colorful clothing reminiscent of the Ixpir goatkin, though clearly designed for a bipedal species. Although he hadn't seen this form before, Alistair immediately recognized her as Fluffy.

Fluffy caught his gaze and waved at him excitedly. He waved back, just about to get up, when she darted over, running toward him and the rest of the family seated near the couch arrangement, drawing curious glances from those nearby before coming to a stop in front of Alistair.

"Hi everyone!" Fluffy chirped, her voice soft and high-pitched, even for her youthful appearance, as she let her gaze sweep around the seating arrangement. "Do you like my new form? I worked very hard on it!"

Despite retaining some of her serpent heritage, she looked undeniably adorable. Her big, swirling eyes locked onto Alistair, clearly eager for his approval.

"You look adorable," Alistair said with a grin, ruffling her hair, which was fluffy and soft, much like the feathered coat she had in her beast form.

"She kind of looks like your and Riseth's kid if you added some snake into the mix," James commented with a smirk. But when he noticed Fluffy's dismayed expression, he quickly added, "In a cute way, of course!"

This brightened her up, and Fluffy happily made the rounds, fishing for praise and attention. She received plenty, especially when she reached Juliana, who was now busy fixing her hair. While it was nice to finally hear Fluffy speak, it became quite clear that she was still very much a beast who loved attention. Alistair noticed Riseth wearing a slightly complicated expression as she watched her summon interact with his mother before sitting down beside him.

"What's the problem?" Alistair asked through the Akashic Link.

"She’s so childlike. It’s hard to imagine her in a fight now, and it makes me feel bad for exposing her to monsters like Eberus," Riseth replied, heavy concern evident on her face.

Alistair wrapped his arm around her and pulled her closer. "Don’t worry. She’s tough, and I’m sure she’d let you know if she didn’t want to fight," he reassured her.

Not wanting to stir up fresh wounds by discussing danger or that monster any further, Alistair decided to steer the conversation in a lighter direction.

"Let's just be happy for her that she’s finally chosen a form for herself," he said gently.

"You’re right. Thank you, love," Riseth replied, giving him a soft kiss.

Alistair returned the kiss briefly before responding, "Always," he said with a smile, then turned his attention to his brother.

"Where is everyone else? I don’t sense them in the building," Alistair asked.

"Melissa went out to fetch Simon and his parents," James replied, his eyes still fixed on the strange device. "They should be back soon."

Alistair nodded and let himself relax, watching his family mingle. Viv had claimed Nessyra's lap, content as Nessyra gently petted her while the demoness looked at the display showing one of the bridges. Alistair wasn’t surprised—Nessyra's calm demeanor and lack of fidgeting made her an ideal target for the cat. Many people didn’t realize that cats preferred those who didn’t actively seek their affection, favoring the tranquility of someone who let them come to them on their own terms, something Riseth still struggled with.

Fluffy had settled down as well, leaning against Teddy on the couch while Alistair’s mother returned to the kitchen to check on the food. Sensing Melissa, Simon, and his parents approaching, Alistair smiled and waved as they entered the living room. Simon, grinning widely, held up two large bottles of spirit orchid wine, while his mother, Aisha, shook her head before hugging Juliana, who had stepped out of the kitchen to greet them. Simon's father, Thomas, beamed when he saw Alistair and waved back. Alistair’s smile grew. He knew that everyone had their own perspectives and values, but for him, this was what he fought for—this quiet peace surrounded by loved ones. He’d protect it at all costs, not just for himself but for everyone in the clan.