Disclaimer: I do not own the Valkyrie Profile series or the characters, Tri-Ace/Square Enix do.

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Waiting there on the cold surface in such a dark place by my ancient weapon: it was so lonely with the pitter-patter of dripping water to keep me company. Footsteps a many would pass by and not heed my call and warnings, most never returning.

More footsteps, a group of maybe two or three, what does it matter? They will not notice me. However, something was off, a commanding aura besieging. Standing up I look, anticipating. A Valkyrie? Will I be able to join the ranks of Valhalla?

A short platinum blonde woman with deep cerulean eyes and another I sense of elf lineage. Some man came into view behind them, very tall with an intimidating stare. An Einherjar just like me?

I tense as they come closer and closer, closing my eyes. Opening them moments later when the footsteps stopped, my vision cleared to a petite face.

Holding an unscathed hand towards me, I began to glow as winds blew through the darkened tunnel, "Join us, Einherjar of magic."

Holding my hand to my heart, it does not beat but it brings warmth. Kneeling down towards the woman, "I will do my best to serve you, Silmeria."

A small smile and I begin to fade into a room of others just like me. We speak and hold introductions, learning of each other and the host that is called Alicia and the elf known as Rufus.

My soul was never strong enough to appear in a physical body for long periods of time, but the adventures and journeys brought forth washed away the loneliness I have felt long past. Kindness mixed with brashness, patience that opposed the impatient; that is the kind of group I travelled in.

However, all things must end and reincarnate: I was summoned before Alicia with Silmeria in temporary control. She tells me I am ready to reincarnate and move on with my life. Fear filled my being, what if I become forever alone?

"Do you wish me to part?" My voice shook unintentionally. Silmeria nodded and held her hand in front of me once again. So familiar to our first encounter, yet, this time it was filled with sadness. Glowing particles gently flowed as my body slowly disintegrated, like fireflies leaving it's home.

"You have done well," Silmeria said to me.

"Thanks for the help," Rufus stepped forward a miniscule bit. Tears welled in my eyes, spilling out as I gave a bright smile before I completely disappeared, "I hope I was of good service to you..."

I was glad to know my reincarnation was a busy one. I may look and act the same, but it was filled with joy.

I stopped washing the dishes in thought, oh how I do miss the adventures I shared so recently at times. The door creaks open and I turn around to the intruder, revealing Alicia and her companion Rufus closely behind. She looks up at me and brightens.

"It's you!" she exclaims. This one had no trace of Silmeria but she has gained so much confidence. I laugh in happiness, taking her hand and placing something very dear to me in it as thanks. Few words were exchanged and happier partings were said. I hold my hand over my beating heart, the warmth still emanating.

Even through reincarnation, I could never forget the past that has made me whole.

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This is going to be my New Years story, it's a bit early but oh well. I hope everyone had a good year and that the next year will be even better ^^

.:~*~:. For those reading Aftermaths of New Journeys, I'm currently writing Chapter 6. I have a lot of ideas of what I want to do with that chapter, but currently in the middle of sorting out how it will go. Sorry for the long wait and thank you for the patience.