Three words, Michiko. Why didn’t you say it? Was it because you didn’t think that would be the last time you’d see her? The real version of her? What about when you saw her again? Why didn’t you say it then? Was it because she didn’t remember you? Was it because you didn’t want to remember /her/? Would you still give her your life? Even if the way she looks at you isn’t the same? Even if her eyes show a different hue? Would you still bow to her? Even if she has lost her divinity? Would you still be willing to die for her? Even if her voice carries a different cadence? Is she, to you, still the same person you love? Does she still hold the same claim on your soul that she used to? Is her smile still mesmerizing in the way it used to be? Does her laugh still make you feel lighter? Are her arms still the safest place in the universe to you? …Yeah.
“Fathom, I–” Michiko cut herself off, storing what she was going to say on her tongue. Fathom turned back to her, having been just about to leave, “Hm?” Michiko stared at her for a moment, then smiled, “I… wish you a safe travel back.” Fathom studied her expression for a moment, before chuckling and nodding, “Farewell. Until next time.” Michiko nodded back at her. Why won’t you say it, Michiko?
