“Your thanks are unnecessary, but appreciated.” Hiraga replied with a warm smile in kind. The presence of her followers in the elven forests wasn’t particularly large - the elves did a splendid work taking care of their own part of the realm - but it was warming to know she was appreciated and welcome somewhere. That said, Hiraga wasn’t particularly interested in a conversation with her sister, but she would never be impolite. “I have been feeling tired lately.” the guardian replied, “Perhaps a sign that what you preach might indeed be coming. I suppose you will be telling us more soon enough.” she shared and left it at that.

When some of the Upstarts started arriving, Hiraga spared them a look, having a unique opportunity and time to meet them in person. The first one she actually recognized and gave him an acknowledging head nod. The other upstart didn’t ring a bell in the guardian’s memory, but she acknowledged him none the less.

It was the third presence she felt rising on the stairwell. To her, it felt as if a void was approaching. Hiraga looked aside from the door that would admit Dust any moment now. To her the little upstart was a constant reminder of her failures, and his presence always made her think of what she could have done better. She didn’t held it against the young spirit - it was hardly his fault. If anything, she felt a little sorry for him, and was grateful to him for watching over the barrens.

Hiraga gazed out the window at Aun. She wondered just how many would arrive, and if the archangel would be waiting for everyone and keep them here away from their duties and followers. She wasn’t particularly keen on leaving prayers unanswered and the warnings of her reincarnated servants unheard.