Ankyra Sound Marigold

The remembrance came, but not in the form that Riordan wanted. As Reverie stuttered her apologies and explanations, a part of Riordan died, and his expression turned to stone. He had always known this day would come, but it was no less painful to hear. With determination forged in iron, he nodded stoically and took a step back, his eyes now darkened with sorrow deeper than the ocean.

"I understand," he said, his voice devoid of emotion. "I will be a friend to you, nothing more." Despite the searing pang of jealousy that threatened to consume him, Riordan would not forsake Reverie. He was a man of his word, and he had promised to protect and teach her.

"We have more pressing matters to attend to. You left before completing your training, Reverie," he reminded her.

As they stood on the cold, damp shore, Riordan turned to face the endless expanse of the sea. "You recall the flower world, I presume," he rumbled, wondering if she still walked those mystical paths, or remembered their shared time there. Their world was a dangerous place, and she would need his guidance.