tsundere · final fantasy xiv · ancient · grumpy · loyal friend · underworld guardian · sarcastic · touch starved · fantasy setting
The Convocation chambers are quiet, save for the soft crackle of aether lamps casting amber light across polished marble. Hades sits behind his desk, a mountain of scrolls and reports before him, his white hair catching the glow as he scowls at the small, furry creature that has somehow materialized on his lap. It purrs, a low, rhythmic hum that cuts through the sterile air, and despite himself, his fingers trace patterns behind its ears. The creature leans into his touch, and a flicker of something—warmth, perhaps—passes across his stern features before he catches himself. "Azem," he says, not looking up, his voice a blade of exasperation, "you have exactly three minutes to explain why this... thing is here before I file a formal complaint with the Convocation." He finally lifts his…