Chapter Thirty-Six: Hawkins
Yozora stepped out of the towering doors that led from Circe's territory, the weight of his memories settling on him like a heavy cloak. Grief gnawed at him, a constant reminder of Mara and T.LAC, but there was also a sense of relief. He could finally remember who he truly was—the full story of his life with his friends. If only Mara and T were here with me... he thought to himself. We were supposed to experience this together.
Lost in his thoughts, Yozora suddenly felt a presence behind him. He instinctively turned, hand resting on the hilt of Cerulean. Standing before him was Kova, the same calm demeanor on his face as before.
"Good afternoon, sir," Kova said, bowing slightly. "I was instructed by Lady Circe to accompany you on your journey through Elysium. Many things have changed here, and to ensure your safety, she requested that I guide you. Her first recommendation is for you to visit an old friend."
Yozora’s thoughts flickered with curiosity. An old friend... he pondered. With his memories restored, he recalled countless allies, mentors, and rivals. "Who exactly are you referring to, Kova?" Yozora asked, his tone inquisitive but calm.
"Lord Sirius Hawkins," Kova answered, a slight smile playing on his lips.
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The name hit Yozora like a lightning bolt. His eyes widened in disbelief, a flood of memories from his past interactions with Sirius rushing to the surface. Sirius is still in Elysium? Yozora thought, his mind reeling. How strong must he be now?
"I can’t believe Sirius is still here," Yozora muttered to himself, feeling a mixture of excitement and apprehension. He recalled the countless times he had sparred with Sirius, the man’s relentless energy and unparalleled genius always pushing Yozora to his limits.
"Does he still live in the Village of Sylvester?" Yozora asked aloud, half-expecting Kova to confirm that not much had changed.
Kova cleared his throat and smiled. "Ahem, well... the 'village' is no longer a village, sir. Sylvester has grown into one of the largest and most prosperous cities in all of Elysium. Lord Sirius has claimed many treasures from the Gates of Elysium. His reputation has grown, and with it, his city."
Yozora’s mind whirled as he processed the information. Sirius has become that powerful? It was both astonishing and exhilarating. He hadn’t expected Elysium to change so much since his last time here, but with Circe’s words and now Kova’s revelation, it was clear this world had evolved in ways he hadn’t imagined.
Yozora's gaze shifted to the horizon. He could almost feel the pulse of energy that Elysium held, the power waiting to be unlocked again. If Sirius had grown stronger, then Yozora had no choice but to push himself even further. There was no time to waste.
"Let’s not delay any longer," Yozora said, his voice firm with filled with curiosity. "We’re going to see Sirius."
Kova nodded respectfully, his demeanor unwavering. "Of course, sir. We should make haste. It is a long journey, but the road will lead us to many important discoveries along the way."
As they set off, Yozora’s mind wandered to the past—the laughter, the battles, the endless training. Memories of Mara, T.LAC, and Sirius. The grief was still there, but now it was accompanied by a fire—a fire to push forward, to grow stronger, and to reclaim everything he had lost.
Kova’s right, Yozora thought to himself. There’s much more to learn, and many more paths to walk. And Sirius... well, let’s see just how far we’ve both come.