Ch 3: Gojira
"Anguirus…"
"…Are you… uncomfortable… around me?"
The day was hot, the rays of sunlight reflecting brightly against Godzilla's coal black scales, making them seemingly emit a bright shine. However, they shuffled against each other, shaking, as if they were anxious of something. It was unlike the Prince of the Monsters to have his indestructible scales show such a vivid weakness. In fact, upon that hot day, the Prince seemed to not have been within character. His posture was low, bordering upon guilty and regretful, whilst his mighty foot occasionally deepened the imprint it had made within the rough sand. His tail swung back and forth lazily yet solemn; his breathe frighteningly slow but collected. Either way, his actions and body language made it all too clear that he was repentful for an action he had undoubtedly committed.
But… what?
Anguirus stood in front of Godzilla, as still as he was. However, his golden eyes were widened with amazement whilst his body remained taunt. Time had seemingly past extremely quickly. The days were uneventful upon the island but never boring. Anguirus had always someone to talk to, and on the rare occasion he didn't, he entertained himself with the sights of the earth or the respite of comfort from his own mind. Memories of pain and hardship; deep injuries and wounds – all weren't forgotten, but considerably overwhelmed by the peace.
But Anguirus wasn't ignorant, he knew he and the others on the island were part of the few that could actually experience some semblance of peace. The war still raged on, mountains had become rubble and lands had become desolate wastelands. He knew of others as lucky as he was to have been able to escape to other lands that shielded them from the battles, and he knew of others who were not. It was always that inescapable fact that haunted not just Anguirus, but everyone. There was always a tense air everyday and an uncertainty of the future. He had always found it noble that Godzilla and Mothra would frequently leave the haven the island had granted in favour of fighting and bloodshed.
One day, Anguirus had begged Mothra to stay. He hadn't known why that day specifically, nor why he was so desperate for her to grant his request. However, her only response was a consoling smile, a grateful thank you, and simple words before she took flight,
But, to ensure you and the others will be able to experience this peace again and again – for all of our fellow kin – I have to fight.
Seeing you all happy, that is my peace.
But the way she said it; her voice strong and prideful. She spoke as if those words had not only come from her heart, but from someone else's as well. And, when the young Titan had finally realised, the haunting guilt of not being able to have expressed his gratitude towards the Prince – despite a great deal of time passing – weighed on the young Titan immensely.
That was why it was so surprising for Anguirus to have been approached by Godzilla on that day. He had always thought he would be the one to eventually gain the confidence – or more so, the chance – to actually speak with the Prince, so much so he had planned out many words within his minds on what to say and how to convey how genuine they were. Of course, all of that had been rendered useless when Godzilla had said those first words. It was just Anguirus and Godzilla; that question burning within their minds.
"I…" Anguirus started, his mind a haze whilst his spikes upon his plated back shook along with Godzilla's scales.
As he said this, however, he could have sworn Godzilla's eyes had flashed with small sadness.
It was short, but told Anguirus everything. How could he have been so blind? In all honesty, he was surprised he hadn't realised sooner. He realised the other connotations his hesitance to speak to the Prince – even approach him for that matter – and inwardly chastised himself for being so clueless. He was about to speak; to finally give the mighty prince the words he had wanted to tell him ever since he had found the solace of the island. But words from days of the past, without any warning, abruptly came to him. And, they echoed within his minds, reminding him of the invincible Prince's certain vulnerability.
"…My Prince." Anguirus called out softly, his golden eyes adorned with consolation, looking into the eyes of the mighty Titan for what felt like the first time.
Godzilla gave no response, he only raised his head higher to meet with Anguirus. He, the Prince of the Monsters, had no real problem conversing with others – at least, in a more formal and serious tone. But, aside from his first statement, his words had be rendered useless. He secretly hoped for a specific answer the young Titan may give him, but knew he had no right to answer for him. Patiently, with the same stoic expression, he waited for the young Titan's answer.
"Your are nervous… aren't you?"
Godzilla recoiled back in shock and Anguirus flinched slightly. He hadn't meant to say that. But, seeing that small weakness within the Prince's shining eyes, he instinctively asked. And it wasn't like Anguirus wanted to take that back. He, too, had started to become slightly anxious when he saw the surprised look Godzilla had given him, but he stayed firm, allowing the Prince to take time to reflect on his statement.
But it was Anguirus' turn to be surprised. For as quickly as the shock took him, Godzilla had already recollected himself to his usual state. But something had changed. A small smile – the most miniscule of ones but one nonetheless – formed upon his rigid face. To Anguirus, it felt almost… odd? But not out of place, and especially comforting. Silently, Godzilla returned to Anguirus eyes, breathing out what seemed to be a sigh of relief and spoke again in his low, rumbling voice.
"Mosura told you, didn't she?" The Prince asked, his very voice vibrating throughout Anguirus' whole body.
"Please don't be upset with her!" Anguirus suddenly pleaded, his head bowed in apology.
Godzilla gave out a laugh. Deep in tone but, much like his smile, comforting. "No. I'm not." He quickly glanced to the side, his golden eyes suddenly recollecting something. "…I could never be.". Already, it seemed the young Titan had calmed down, breathing his own sigh of relief.
But the young Titan could only continue to stare at the mighty Prince in front of him, no longer in his surprised state as before, but still remaining in silent contemplation of what else to say. This was the very first time he had seen the Prince like this – comfortable and at ease with others of his kin. A small smile; a rumbling laugh, Anguirus knew not how to respond, only knowing he should give the grace of allowing the Titan he admired the most to remain within his comforting state for as long as possible, fearing any words may break it.
But Anguirus could tell Godzilla still awaited his answer. With the way his rigid scales tightened and the smile he wore slowly faded into the blackness, Anguirus knew a certain fear still plagued his mind.
"Please don't worry, my Prince. You don't make me feel uncomfortable." Anguirus said softly, his golden eyes reflecting off the Prince's very own as looked towards him.
Anguirus hadn't noticed it before, but Godzilla's sharp dorsal spines flickered and had always been flickering an erratic, dark blue colour. But after he spoke, it had almost instantly began to fade into a serene cyan that had never ceased it's almost warm glow. Coincidently, Anguirus felt a small brush of wind against the spines on his back when Godzilla had breathed a sigh into the world, almost as if the earth breathed relief with him. Godzilla's expression became it's usually one before giving a small nod towards Anguirus.
Anguirus looked up towards the Prince's golden eyes, seeing his own eyes within their reflection. But instead of leaving, Godzilla remained still where he was, patiently waiting – his rigid face as unreadable as the distant, calm ocean. It was only then did Anguirus realise the Prince was waiting for him. And, much like Mothra, he had seen right through the young Titan.
Clenching his maw and tightening his limbs, Anguirus' horned head fell close to the sand. "But also!" He suddenly cried out, a slight embarrassment in his voice, unable to look the powerful Titan in the eye. "Please, forgive me for my actions! I hadn't meant for it to come out the way it is. In truth, I have so much I want to tell you, so much I want to thank you for. But, you seem to be here for only a moment. And, still, within that moment, I can't seem to approach you for fear my words are not enough."
The young Titan gritted his teeth, and finally found the courage to look at him eye to eye. "If it would be fine, I would like to talk with-"
Anguirus immediately stopped his words when he felt the tough of the Prince's great, rigid claws atop his horned head. He could see the black Titan crunched downwards, an odd amusement but still that sense of softness present within the strong gold of his eyes. His claw, clement yet firm, gave an unexpected amount of warmness whilst his maw opened up to reveal the tiniest of smiles once more.
"I-I don't need to hear much else, Anguirus." Godzilla grumbled gently, his dorsal plates lit with an even stranger colour of pink. The Prince had thought he had gotten used to such praise and admiration ever since his partnership, but that seemed to only stem from Mothra.
Now, it felt like he was back at square one.
"In truth…" The Prince began, unable to hide his bashfulness as he avoided Anguirus' watchful stare. "…I, too, would like to be able to converse with you more. Especially if it meant I could confirm your own well-being as well as the other's."
Godzilla came slightly closer, his eyes and rigid head now bearing seriousness, Anguirus noticed, a seriousness that comically contrasted with the pink glow that was still illuminating from him. "Is… that something… you…would like, Anguirus?"
By now all thought of worry and confusion had left the young Titan's mind, instead replaced with shock, joy and a copious amount of excitement. So much so, however, Anguirus had found once again his words would fail him, for his soft voice seemed unable to say much else in response. Unknowingly, all he could muster up was the twisting of his foot into the side whilst his horned head gave a quick but clear nod.
What snapped Anguirus out of it was when he noticed the Prince scales flinch slightly. Only then did his mind catch up with his body.
Wait! I mean…
"I-I…" Anguirus exclaimed, flustered, looking away from the Prince in a feign attempt to recollect himself and reorganise his words. Immediately, the young Titan felt guilty for responding to the Prince's meaningful and powerful words with a simple nod of the head. He was about to say more, when he realised the Prince had gotten up to his full height whilst his once gentle claws twitched and flexed in a shamed manner.
"I-I'm sorry. I'm not very good at this." Godzilla admitted, his face demonstrating to Anguirus he wanted to roar his awkwardness away, yet unable to for fear it would just exacerbate the situation.
But Anguirus only gave a light laughing response as he stumbled a very short distance towards the Prince. Lightly, he pressed his head against one of the Prince's claw, immediately getting his attention, and pulled away. For some reason, at least for the moment, Anguirus could no longer feel the pain within his body nor confusion nor excitement. Instead, he felt a familiarity within his heart.
"It's a start." Anguirus said, looking up towards the Prince, his dull teeth flashing as he smiled. "And a good one, at that."
Godzilla relaxed his body once more, looking back down towards the young Titan, his smile unafraid and spread wide. For him, too, embarrassment left him in favour of a sense of… something. He never could explain it; he suspected not even Mothra could. But he felt like how he usually was with Mothra, and it gave the powerful Titan so much joy his dorsal plates ebbed away from pink and shone a jovially blue.
"Again… if you would like it, Anguirus…" Godzilla began again, this time being met with a ready smile from Anguirus, in turn, making the Prince confident with what he had to say. "I… I would like you to call me…"
"Gojira."
Anguirus felt no hesitation as the sun shining on the island brightened up the water even more.
"Of course."
It became a routine of sorts for the Prince and the young Titan, now. Once Godzilla and Mothra would return from their ventures from the vast world, he and Anguirus would find some time – whether that be short or long – to talk. Anguirus would always start off by indulging the Prince of what had been going on within the island and how he and the other Titans were fairing when they were left on their own. In return, Godzilla had begun extremely simple and safe training for the young Titan, priming his body so as simple movement of his legs, tail or head, would soon become easy and painless. At one point, Godzilla began training Anguirus for basic combat – something Anguirus agreed to with, strangely enough, with barely any hesitation, surprising Godzilla. Even so, once they were found out by Mothra, she immediately went onto a stern lecturing of how Anguirus was yet to be ready for such strain and how his body needs proper time to heal – the most basic of lecturing, but one that span for a decent amount of time.
But once all the priorities were out of the way, to both the Kaiju's enjoyment, they quickly got to talking about their own lives or whatever seemed to peak their interest at that time. Anguirus took care in not prying too much within Godzilla's life, but found Godzilla would occasionally open up to him about it anyway, surprising the young Titan. He didn't evaluate much nor speak for that long about himself, but to Anguirus, it was nice hearing Godzilla's rough voice become so soft when speaking to him. Anguirus never asked any question's about the Prince's personal life, and though they had begun to grow closer to each other, Anguirus knew immediately Godzilla had wanted to keep it that way. But, even still, Anguirus was grateful Godzilla was just sharing with him anything he wanted to.
Anguirus had only asked a handful of questions in their times talking amongst each other. At one point, Anguirus had gotten curious once again and asked what the name 'Goji' meant. And, to an even greater surprised, Godzilla's response was… similar to Mothra's when Anguirus had asked about the name to her a while back. Another time, Anguirus asked Godzilla if he had any other friends beside from Mothra. The Prince immediately looked back at the young Titan with shock, and misunderstanding it, Anguirus profusely apologised for how insulting it sounded. But Godzilla took no offence, nor did he really notice.
"Of course, there is you."
The comment caught Anguirus of guard and, gingerly, the spiked Titan thanked the Prince. But, after he watched Godzilla continue on thinking for a while longer, Anguirus was surprised to see the Prince's maw clench up with slight irritation, with soft growls – none hostile, though – come from him. Even so, it was clear the softness and kinship within his eyes betrayed any annoyance he had.
"And, I suppose there is one more. A winged one so… annoying…"
But, for the first time, Anguirus saw a smirk come out of the powerful Titan.
"…you just can't help but be attracted to it."
Anguirus had pondered the rest of that day what the Prince's words actually meant, and how this apparent winged Titan could even bear to live within flame and fire.
However, there was an abundance of things rarely brought up between the two. Godzilla, upon returning from harsh battles or dangerous fights never brought light to the subject when conversing with Anguirus. Nor did the young Titan ever dare ask the Prince what it was like fighting in the war. Frequently – too frequently – did Godzilla come back littered with scars deadly enough to pierce through his thick hide; their multitude against his scales making Anguirus fear what had enough power to inflict them and what kind of pain they brought. But his wounds never seemed to truly hurt Godzilla, and Anguirus knew Mothra was always there to tend to any wounds he may have had – including her own.
It was always Anguirus who dominated most of their conversations, being the first one to bring the topic of their personal life. But, even when Anguirus continued to open up to the Prince, Godzilla couldn't bare to ask about anything else Anguirus didn't tell him about. On far too many occasions did Anguirus realise he had been talking about the life he used to live and the family he once had for too long and, as consequence, found he could speak no more words. Afterwards, he and Godzilla could only remain in silence, a simple and consoling brush of the powerful Titan's scaled tail against his spiked hide enough to comfort Anguirus within this silence. And, Godzilla too, found solace within Anguirus' own presence.
They had found this silence once again one day but revelled within it's serenity and warmth. Looking out into the vast ocean, watching the waves calmly sweep across its surface, Anguirus silently laughed to himself. He couldn't image, for what seemed like moments ago, did his own and Godzilla's awkwardness and misunderstanding of things pry them apart for a while. Now, it felt like they had known each other since birth. Now, they didn't even need to talk with each other, just simply reminiscing upon the beach of the island gave them the comfort they needed with each other.
At one point, Mothra came into view, slowly but elegantly flying across the beach to indulge herself with any priorities she had. She never did join Godzilla and Anguirus' little sessions with each other, in fact, she outright encouraged Godzilla to spend more time with the other Titans by himself. Anguirus remembered Godzilla telling Mothra's reaction to his sudden desire to speak with him by himself, and couldn't help but laugh at how it sounded like Mothra was immensely congratulating Godzilla as if he was her own hatchling who just learned how to fly.
Anguirus promptly stopped himself from laughing after remembering that story as he noticed Mothra stop flight and notice the two of them. With a smile as bright as any star within the night sky, she courteously bowed to them. In return, Anguirus gave a smile back and bowed his horned head, knowing Godzilla was doing the same as he. With brightened, sapphire eyes and a light squeak to say her goodbye's, Mothra continued on her way, a light spring apparent with every beat of her magnificent wings, disappearing across the island.
"She must be an amazing partner, wouldn't you say, Gojira?" Anguirus jovially said, turning towards the powerful Titan.
But the young Titan was troubled to find Godzilla didn't share in his excitement. In fact, he seemed distressed and anxious, an unnerving thing now since Anguirus was so used to seeing his calm and relaxed state whenever they were together.
"O-Oh! Of course, I-I'm sure you're just as an amazing partner for her!" Anguirus quickly added on, not liking how familiar the awkward situation felt like.
Again, Godzilla did not reply. Quickly, Anguirus took a closer glance to the Prince, immediately noticing how his gold eyes were lost in thought and conflicted; how his whole presence emanated… sadness, guilt and regret? Anguirus physically recoiled when he sensed the emotions come from Godzilla. It would have to break their unspoken rule with each other, but Anguirus never considered that. Instinctively, he called out towards the Prince.
"Gojira… are you alright?" Anguirus gently asked, moving closer to him.
Immediately, his soft voice snapped Godzilla out of his trance and caused the powerful Titan's great head to shake as to compose himself. Anguirus sighed a breathe of relief and patiently awaited the Prince's answer. But Godzilla still couldn't bare to look the young Titan in the eye. Instead, he continued to stare towards the sand, his mind still conflicted – whatever it was, Anguirus still didn't know. Godzilla began to grit his teeth and clench his claws, now becoming irritated with his own indecision. It was something Anguirus, again, noticed and was about to call out to him again.
But Godzilla's eyes softened soon after, recollecting himself. Anguirus, again, was relieved, but still sensed the immanent sadness and guilt come from him. Godzilla took one glance at Anguirus and saw the young Titan sitting readily across from him, calmly waiting for him. Gold reflecting off gold, Anguirus gave the Prince a determined look, remaining silent and still.
You can tell him.
He can help you.
He is…
…your friend.
"Anguirus…" Godzilla finally spoke, returning his eyes towards the ground.
"…How much… do you know… of Mosura?"
…Know of… Mosura?
The question intrigued Anguirus heavily, for he didn't know how to answer. On a number of occasions, yes, he and Mothra would talk for long periods on whatever they had on their mind. Much like Godzilla, Mothra came to enjoy Anguirus' company – going so far as to become slightly dependent on it so as to ease her mind from troubles and worry. She had shared many wisdom and advice with the young Titan; she valued things such as friendship, love… even hope for peace with every single living creature on the earth – no matter their conflict with each other – as much as he did. She was intelligent and collected as she was fierce and fearless in battle. She always sought to end things peacefully rather than end in bloodshed.
And she would shed tears for enemies when she had to inevitable resort to killing.
To Anguirus, Mothra seemed perfect – like a Goddess that calmed any storm, whether that be of earth or of mind. But, he knew she had ever right to not tell him of every single bit of her personal life. Of course, she shared much more of that to Anguirus than Godzilla did to him, but he could tell there were certain things best kept to Mothra, herself. Even someone like her, Anguirus figured, had limits.
Even so, Anguirus could only smile as he answered. "In truth, Gojira, I don't really know her like you do," The young Titan spoke. "But, I know she's strong, in a lot of ways."
Anguirus looked towards the Prince with a smile, "You think her stronger than you."
But an awkward silence once again soon followed, Godzilla's face seemingly stuck looking towards the ground. Anguirus' smile slowly faded as the awkwardness grew. Anguirus could only continue staring blankly at the Prince, his legs starting to tremble from the tension. Much to the young Titan's embarrassment, he could actually hear his spikes upon his back rattle slightly. A million thoughts began pounding within the poor Titan's mind.
Was my answer not good enough?
Did I miss some other meaning behind Gojira's words?
Did he want me to find something out about Mosura?
Oh, I thought we were getting the hang of this!
"Anguirus…" Godzilla called out, his voice deep and echoing.
"I-Yes!" Anguirus immediately responded, his whole body stiffening as he was brought back to reality, but the warmness within his face still present as he realised he had yelped before he said anything.
Strangely enough, it was Anguirus' yelp that snapped the Prince out of his daze and look towards him. A pinkish glow began to emit from Godzilla's dorsal plates, the situation he had inadvertently caused just now reaching him. Anguirus stopped his anxiousness and relaxed his body, understanding the situation and patiently waited for Godzilla.
"I-I'm sorry," Godzilla finally said, bowing his head in apology, the pink glow only getting stronger. "I didn't mean to…"
Godzilla gave a soft sigh, and decided to start over again. "Anguirus… what I meant to say was…" Godzilla began again, his voice softer now as Anguirus keenly listened. "How much… do you know of Mosura's… powers?"
With the way the Prince had said it, it was almost as if he was the one who had been a bother to Mothra, which is why it made Anguirus even more confused and stunned then he already was. The young Titan looked hard into Godzilla, hoping to prevent another painfully awkward moment.
"Only as much as you have told me before." Anguirus responded quite quickly, desperately trying to piece together what else he should say.
Godzilla gave a breathe of air, and Anguirus noted that – whilst he seemed to expect that answer – he seemed unsatisfied and still very much conflicted. The Prince looked away from the young Titan, deliberating something Anguirus couldn't quite understand. Anguirus, at first, was about to ask more. But the tense atmosphere created sealed his mouth shut. Instead, he took to the solace of his mind and began to contemplate the question – contemplate Mothra as well as her other-wordly powers.
With his kind being mostly isolated from the rest of the earth, it was understandable that Anguirus hadn't had much idea of his fellow Titans. As such, it was only through the others on the island as well as Mothra and Godzilla did he learn of the other's abilities, strengths – even weaknesses. But, he rarely questioned Mothra's own powers. As strong, powerful and otherwise unexplainable as they were, it just seemed… right… for someone like Mothra to have such powers, Anguirus thought anyway.
Mothra told him once that, relative to the other Titan species, her kind were a lot less in their numbers. She recalled, if they had been at peace rather than at war, sightings with her kind would have been much less frequent – more like a rare sight. But it was Godzilla who told Anguirus those of her kind born with powers such as Mothra's are even more rare that what it would have been like if the Titans lived within a time of peace.
Mothra's rare powers was a huge part in the many reasons why she had been partnered with Godzilla. It was natural for the relationship between Godzilla's and Mothra's species, as such. The stronger the Gojira, the stronger the Divine Moth he would be partnered with. And to be partnered with the future King, the Divine Moth would have to be the strongest there was – most especially morally wise; the most powerful of will power.
For, if one had such powers, if a Divine Moth's fate was to be born a female with such powers, it would mean they had access to the ability that defied even the natural order itself; the very balance of earth. Godzilla's species were powerful, but their entire species' strength combined couldn't compete with such a power. Not one living thing on earth – within the vast universe could compete with it. Every living thing on earth all shared the same weakness, but a rare few Divine Moths had been born to overcome such weakness. To protect their Gojira from this weakness, it was expected she would give her own life for him…
"And be reborn from death…"
Anguirus hadn't meant for his thoughts to come out of him – spoken. But his own voice snapped the young Titan out of his memories and into the present. Immediately, he turned over towards the Prince, his heart quickening as presumptions – horrible and frightening – came forwards within the young Titan's mind. His golden eyes widened as realisation overtook him. The spines on his back seemed to shake. He refused to believe it, but knew almost instantly that it was true.
"M-Mosura," Anguirus softly quivered, as if her name could have easily been lost the moment he said it. "S-She's… already…"
"Yes." Godzilla immediately replied, his voice the lowest Anguirus had ever heard it, as well as the most forlorn and miserable.
Godzilla still kept his gaze towards the ground, looking almost shamed for confirming Anguirus' suspicions. The Prince's answer felt surreal to the young Titan, as if the world itself rejected the idea that such a thing could ever have happened. Just how much had Mothra been suffering?
How much had the both of them been suffering?
"W-Why… did you think it best to tell me, Gojira?" Anguirus finally asked, wanting to permanently break this torturing silence for good.
"Because…" The Prince replied, now looking back at his friend, a desperate and frustrated look within his piercing eyes. "I want to know…"
The Prince paused for a moment, suddenly breathless and shaking. Worriedly, he looked into Anguirus' eyes, expecting the young Titan to recoil from his sudden outburst. But Anguirus did not. Upon the sand, he sat patiently, he eyes littered with concern, focusing all his efforts to try and quell the trembling heart of the powerful and fierce Titan in front of him. He took in every word and never faltered. And whilst he waited, unbeknownst to even him, Anguirus' concerned eyes urged the Prince to tell him, for fear he would eventually come to regret it should he remain silent.
He seemed so much like her, Godzilla had thought. So, after taking a rumbling breathe, he asked the question Godzilla had always wanted to ask Anguirus the moment they had become friends.
"How can I redeem my failure to her, Anguirus?"
Godzilla's voice broke silently, but he – nor his pride – did not care. Angrily, his claws gripped the sand as his body flared and tensed. Soft growls emitted from his maw as he retreated back to his gaze towards the ground. Godzilla didn't even know what to think of the situation anymore. Whilst he finally felt relieved he could tell a soul about his problems – most especially one like Anguirus' – the memory of Mosura's demise began to haunt him again, her trembling voice within that moment echoing within his mind. Shamed, Godzilla found he had no more strength to lift his great head.
"I finally lost myself to the violence, to the fighting and… to my own wrath." He continued, his voice vibrating only the gentle winds between them. "I fought a powerful foe, controlled by my urge to fight, without her help. I struggled and bled – at times, I thought I was going to die. But she came to my aid when I needed her the most, a thing she had always done, even out of fights." It began to sting even deeper, the collapsing of his deep voice as taboo as the thing they discussed. "She blamed herself for her lateness and for the injuries I had endured. But… it was my own fault."
"And… when I saw her… fall…" Godzilla abruptly stopped, but the young Titan wasn't surprised. He, as well, didn't want to hear it. Godzilla shook his head, the gold shining and glistening, his teeth bared through pain and sadness.
"Before she faded away… I don't even know… if I was able to quell her fear."
For as soft as the Prince's voice was, his words seemed to echo endlessly. Godzilla's glow of blue had vanished completely a while ago, shading the mighty Titan within a darker concealment. Again, silence filled the air. But it wasn't tense or worrying or confusing. Its sadness was heavy and depressing, and Godzilla could feel it bear painfully upon his spine. Taking a moment to collect himself, however, Godzilla couldn't help but feel even more guilty, believing he had burdened Anguirus to much.
But the Prince felt a warmth upon his crown, familiar with its comfort and kindness. Looking forward, his head still hung low, Godzilla could see Anguirus' own horned head pressed gently against his, smiling a sad but consoling smile, his own golden eyes shining and glistening as well.
Pulling away after a short while, Anguirus rested his hide back onto the beach, a gentle but relaxed breathe exhaling from him. Godzilla did the same, unsure but intrigued with the young Titan. Anguirus shifted closer to the Titan, hesitating at first, before pressing his side against Godzilla's rough scales, continuing to look forward. Knowing the Prince had no objections, and swearing he heard what seemed to be a content and deep rumble from Godzilla, the young Titan kept his position.
"…Gojira?" Anguirus called out to his friend, his voice light yet firm. Godzilla gave a calmed snort in response, unsure what to think. And the young Titan indulged him with his memory.
…One day, I saw Mosura all by herself.
She seemed to be reminiscing on something, so I found it best to not approach her. I… think I begun staring? Because she noticed me after a while and asked if I wanted to join her.
We sat together for a while, quietly, but I just couldn't shake the feeling that some sort of sadness was within her heart. She had those familiar eyes, the same one's I saw with the others when I first arrived here. And… within myself. I know it wasn't my place but, I ended up asking her what was captivating her mind so much. It was a guess, but I suppose I was right, because she was surprised after I asked her.
She mentioned… she was thinking about a moment in the war where she… was the most frightened and helpless she had ever been. How it had scarred her for a long time. How it felt like she was losing herself and her very will.
I… now know what she meant by that.
But, despite telling me this, she then smiled. And she glowed such a serene colour. She looked like the brightest and most beautiful being to ever roam this world.
She said that, whilst it was the darkest point in her life, it had opened up a new light within her life.
You spoke to her. Whilst she was… fading. You told her something. It's not my right to ask what it was, but…
I already know they hold a dear place within her heart, Gojira.
A light crash of waves against the sand rippled as Anguirus concluded, his gaze now turning to the Prince. "Were they true?" Anguirus asked quietly.
The young Titan saw no change within Godzilla, for the mighty Titan was deep in thought. But the serene colour of blue returned to his plates, coursing through the cracks within his scales, pulsing melodically, as his own words from that time coursed through his mind.
"The truest I have ever spoken." Godzilla replied, his gruff voice firm and poised.
"Even though she went through… that." Anguirus continued, keeping his confident gaze on the Titan. "She was able to come out stronger and move forwards. I truly don't believe she ever once even thought what had happened was your fault. Because… I believe you have given rise to something within her."
Godzilla snapped out of his aloof state and stared back towards Anguirus. "What do you think that would be?" He quickly asked, his great head tilting in a curious but interested manner as he leant in closer.
Anguirus thought for a bit, then smiled. His smile soon turned to a light laugh as he thought of his answer. Godzilla gave a confused look, genuinely interested. But Anguirus only shook his horned head, concluding it may not be best to answer.
"Only Mosura knows." The young Titan replied, a knowing glint flashing within his eyes.
Godzilla nodded his head in agreement but then suddenly shook it, still unable to completely escape his frustration. "But, regardless! I am still to blame for her d-"
"If you want to make it up to her, I think it would be best if you don't wallow in the darkness of it." Anguirus interrupted, now unfazed and determined. "If you continue to do so, it would only upset Mosura. To redeem yourself to her, follow forward with her, with a care even stronger than before."
"It is difficult. And, you can lose yourself to its darkness easily. But, you don't have to face it by yourself. She's there for you – she will always be there for you. It's why she's moved forward, so both of you can focus on each other, as you are now."
"And… you care for her deeply, too. So, move forward, together, for her and you own sakes"
The young Titan flashed a toothy smile, "It's what partners do, after all."
For a while, Godzilla could only look at the young Titan with amazement, silently. There he was, smiling – carefree, almost – but with a confident and heartfelt expression that had the power to quell his heart. He only knew of one other being capable of such a thing. So, silently, the two sat there, Anguirus' gaze eventually falling back towards the ocean, retaining his grin, whilst Godzilla kept his gaze on him.
Godzilla looked at him and realised the young Titan was not just talking from the heart, but from experience as well.
Stillness between them returned, but this time, it was tranquil. Anguirus breathed out a sigh of relief, knowing his friend had considered his words carefully. But his head perked up when, beside him, a rumbling chuckle resonated between the two. He turned again to see Godzilla had finally found his breathe, and adorned a small yet pleasant smile.
"So young, but already so wise. You're a lot more like her than you think, Anguirus." Godzilla spoke, his eyes flashing with sincerity.
"Oh. T-Thanks." Anguirus replied, taken back a bit, feeling unworthy to be complimented in that regard.
Godzilla laughed again, its rumbling more hearty, and allowed his tense and stressed body to finally give in and ease itself. "Thank you, Anguirus." He whispered.
Anguirus, for a moment, remained captivated by Godzilla expression, thinking to himself how this was the most emotional he had ever seen the Prince and probably the only time. But he quickly shook his horned head, chuckled softly to himself, and nudged the hide of the great Titan with his side.
"Your welcome."
Godzilla smiled back, and returned with a nudge of his own, a bit stronger. Anguirus nudged back, even stronger. Both went back to laughter.
Silently, her thin but graceful claws trekked across the cave floor, the night being so quiet even her gentle steps seemed to echo. Her blue eyes pierced through the darkness, their glow slightly brighter than her very wings, given she didn't want to wake him too soon.
She had done this for a few nights now, but she never quite got rid of her nervousness and even embarrassment, strangely enough. That day had turned the respite of drifting to sleep into something so frightening for her, she just couldn't help but seek someone else's comfort. To know they were real. To know she would open her eyes after drifting to slumber. When the day was over; whenever she thought she'd be fine sleeping by herself, it always seemed that her judgement was wrong and that she'd have to retreat towards his comfort once again.
Even still, it's not like she was complaining about it. It was actually her preference.
Abruptly, the echoing of her steps ceased as she silently stood next to the slumbering figures resting head. Despite his intimidating size and dark figure, she found the breathes he'd take within his sleep were oddly soothing. After a while of deliberation, she mustered up the courage and gave the lightest of shrills, somehow still finding a way to echo through the cave.
What seemed like instantly, the figure's great head lifted and his eyes opened, flashing a calm blue along with his dorsal plates to light the darkness. His keen eyes weren't surprised, but rather, concerned as his gaze met hers, recognising the important need for his awakening. He purred softly, hoping it would suffice as he couldn't really offer much words of comfort. She squeaked back, averting her gaze from him and rubbed her two frontal limbs together, finding she could offer no words either.
Her furred antennae suddenly shook and she looked back towards him, watching him adjust himself, slowly and carefully. As quick as he woke, he stopped his movement, now showing a clear space next to him. He gestured for her to come to him, and at once her crystal eyes widened as she couldn't restrain her glow. She gave off a shrill, louder and more jovial than before, and cuddled herself next to him, tucking in her wings beside her furred body, watching the light within the cave diminish in its brightness, before indulging her head against the comfort of his scales.
Quietly, he laughed, charmed and content, as his great tail glided against the floor and placed itself against her body, acting off muscle memory. He continued to gaze at her, then pressed his snout against her head buried deep against him. Pleasantly surprised, she removed her head from his body, before it turned to genuine surprise as she realised how suddenly close his head was to hers, and her own beak was to his maw.
"…Mosura?" Godzilla called out, his voice immensely strong despite its quietness.
"Yes, Gojira?" Mothra quickly answered, quickly enamoured by his golden eyes.
"Thank you, for a being a light within my life." He stated, his tail curling around them even more, never once looking away from her. "And know, if you move forward, I'll follow your light, and move forward with you."
Silently stunned for a moment, her fear of the night had all been forgotten. And before she could realise it, her claw had already begun to caress against the Titan's snout, her blue light widening with her smile.
"I-I'm glad." She finally exclaimed, her flustered but joyous expression and his calm but strengthened demeanour clearly visible now to the both of them.
"...And, Gojira?" She whispered.
"Yes, Mosura?"
"Thank you… for letting me be your light."
A chapter that I may have been able to get away with if I had split it into two, but I'm stubborn like that.
Also, I don't know why this specific chapter, but on the (currently rare) chances I was able to write, I would be hit with a massive wave of writer's block. It's not why this chapter has taken so long to write, but it is a factor.
But anyway, I'm fine with how this turned out. And look at that, some Goji x Mosu at the end for some well deserved fluff!
I hope you enjoyed!