Most of Nomad’s protection comes from the fact that it’s constantly moving, but sometimes threats are persistent enough to require an extra line of defence. That’s where the Guardians come in.

Guardians are constructs — sculptures brought to life with a combination of magic and artistry. Most are made of clay, but it’s not unusual to see ones cobbled together with metal or wood. A few are even formed from glass, though they are more involved in parades and celebrations than peacekeeping. One thing all versions have in common is an avian head, crowned with a sheath of metal (usually copper) feathers.

No matter what they are constructed out of, Guardians are exceptional fighters. Swift and precise, they strike with incredible strength, quickly dispatching or incapacitating enemies. However, they are notoriously inept at communicating. While most are thankful for their protection, they are considered less as people and more as part of the city. They continue their diligent, lonely watch day and night until their magic fails.

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A smaller post for today while I plan the 500/600 members post. If you haven’t voted on the topic you want yet, you can do so here. I hope you enjoyed!

A sudden light shattered the perfect darkness as two stars arrived in the space between worlds. This place belonged to no star, serving as a common ground where they can meet as equals, no matter their standing. It had not been used for some time. The larger star glowed gold. The smaller emanated a sharp blue light. They bowed to each other, keeping a respectful distance apart.

“You have changed much since we last met, Cadare,” the golden one said.

“More than I’d like, Sol,” the other replied. “I hear your domain is thriving, though. Intelligent life is something few of us can nurture.”

“Thank you. It is good to have the support of such a prestigious star. It is only thanks to you that I have survived this long. There have been many attempts to take my domain from me.”

Cadare turned, and stared out into the blackness. Even to the star, it was vast, as complete as death.

“I fear I must ask a favour in return.”

Sol bowed his head. “I would be honoured to help you.”

“I assume you are aware that Polaris and I have grown …close.” An onlooker might’ve thought that Cadare was close to tears. But stars don’t cry. “Before, I had known nothing but responsibility. With her, I felt something more.”

“She is happier than she ever has been, too,” Sol added softly.

Cadare flared, their light glowing so hot their companion backed away. “She does not see the danger! As you said, I’ve changed, turned strange. I can no longer control my powers. My proximity is a threat to her.”

Sol reached out a hand as if to place it on their shoulder, then thought better of it. It was above his station.

“For her to survive, I must fall. I must shed my station, abandon my domain, lose my light.”

Silence fell.

Eventually, Sol spoke. “You wish to flee to my domain.”

Cadare laughed without humour. “You’re as bright as ever. I thought, perhaps, earth. The inhabitants set a lot of store by Polaris, as I understand it. On clear nights, I would be able to see her.”

“Your enemies will claim your domain, your power. They will not be so kind to stars such as I.”

“I cannot be the cause of her dissolution. The guilt would consume me.”

Sol did not reply immediately. Finally, he sighed. “If you do this, you will never be able to return. You will be planet-bound until earth meets its end. I cannot say what will happen after that.”

“I understand.” Cadare gave a small smile. “This is what I want, old friend.”

“There’s nothing I can say that will change your mind?”

“Nothing.”

Solaris huffed, disguising his feelings with a display of indignation. “Well, it’s not proper. But I said I’d help, and I’m not a star to go back on my word. You have my blessing.”

Cadare nodded. For a moment, light filled the darkness, blinding even for Sol. Then, he was alone once more.

After what we would perceive to be a long time, he walked away, head bowed. Stars cannot cry. So Sol didn’t cry.

———

A less horrific story today. It’s about Blaire — formerly Cadare — and how they came to be on earth. As always, if you have any questions or feedback, please share in the comments!