The descent through the 13 Zodiac Houses was shrouded in reverent silence. Each step, each footfall, carried a unique weight. Midoki, Elliot, Throk, Neptune, Elyra, and Spink walked side by side, their expressions serene yet filled with respect and longing for the Emissaries who had sacrificed everything for a greater cause.
Upon reaching the outside of the First House, Midoki knelt before the statues standing at the imposing gate, representations of the fallen. With his hands clasped and his voice low, he began the prayer.
- Midoki: "Kentarou of Sagittarius, your sacrifice guided us when we were lost. May your arrow continue to illuminate the paths of young warriors."
With eyes brimming with tears, Elliot added:
- Elliot: "Thank you, my master. Your spirit lives on in every choice I make from this day forward."
They left Kentarou's statue and proceeded in silence to the next: Gyuuma, the Emissary of Taurus. The energy of the house felt unchanging, as firm as the resolve Gyuuma had shown in life. Throk laid a respectful hand upon the statue.
- Throk: "Gyuuma of Taurus, your endurance was a shield that protected us. We will never forget your loyalty and strength."Throk's voice echoed like the mountains—heavy, yet full of gratitude.
Elyra bowed her head in reverence.
- Elyra: "Your sacrifice reminded us that true strength comes from the heart. Thank you."
Their path led them next to the statue of Raiga, the Emissary of Leo, whose bravery was legendary. Neptune was the first to speak, his tone solemn.
- Neptune: "Raiga of Leo, your flame will never die out. Your example inspires us to fight for what we believe in, without fear."
Midoki, with a serene smile, added:
- Midoki: "You showed us that courage matters—even in the darkest moments, especially for what we believe in."
Next came the statue of Arion, the Emissary of Aries. As they entered, his aura seemed to embrace them. Spink closed his eyes and spoke with heartfelt sincerity.
- Spink: "Arion of Aries, your kindness was a beacon in times of darkness. May we honor your teachings and bring peace wherever we go."
Elyra gently held Spink's hand and continued:
- Elyra: "You were the balance we all needed. Thank you for showing us that true strength lies in understanding and protecting."
Finally, they reached the house of Vagnos, the Emissary of Virgo, known for his vision beyond destiny. Midoki sighed as he looked upon the statue, and a deep sense of connection settled over the group.
- Midoki: "Vagnos of Virgo, your eye of destiny was the key to facing the present. Thank you for trusting me... for trusting us to carry on your legacy."
After the final prayer, the companions gathered at the center of the courtyard of the 13 statues, where they gazed upon the statue of Orpheus. The silence that surrounded them was almost tangible, heavy with promises made and heartfelt gratitude.
They descended the final steps, toward the celestial citadel. The golden clouds of twilight reflected on the hull, giving the moment an almost magical aura. A few days later, they boarded the ship and set sail.
The next chapter of their journey awaited them, but the memory of each Emissary would remain forever alive in their hearts.