I'll Pray For You [ Usako ]

The evening brought with it a cool breeze and a refreshing drop in temperature after Jae-ha had spent much of the day sweating and slaving in the kitchens to remove all the stains and disgusting big blobs of grease and scraps burnt into the surface. He had yet to wash but he had wiped away the worst of the grime from his face. But he looked almost like a street urchin right now- he knew Aoi would disapprove of his look right now. Funnily enough that was who he was there to pray to.

But despite being able to play Aoi's speech of disappointment word for word in his mind- he knew that if he let himself back into his room- even if it was just with the intention to clean up... He would flop down onto his bed and wouldn't be bothered to leave afterwards.

As he arrived at the temple, he weaved his way against the ocean of people finding their way back home. The tall ceilings and great windows meant that it became uncomfortably cool as night came. Besides, most people had partners to welcome home and food to put on for the evening.

Honestly though, Jae-ha much preferred the temple when it was brimming with life and loud talking and heavenly chants and songs. Being here almost all on his own sort of creeped him out. It was mostly because of thegreat statues dedicated to the Nine. Standing at least 10 times his own height, they cast long dark shadows that crept up the walls and across the stone floors. The golds and silvers that plated the statues gave the constant illusion that someone was coming up behind you.

He knew the deities would protect him in this place, so he didn't have anything to truly fear... But he still wasn't a fan of the temple at nighttime all by any means. He followed the priests and priestesses when he could to rid himself of the loneliness.

At least he just wanted to quickly offer a short prayer for Aoi on his journey to Michi. And then he would be on his way back at home- so he didn't have to stay any longer than was absolutely necessary.

He finally came to a halt before the statue of The Traveler, his form as a white dove was suspended as a giant silver statue above the prayer room. The soft evening light reflected on the silver surface of the deity, creating a beautiful burst of pure blues, purples and pinks to be cast across the room. He had to say, this one place wasn't too bad. 

He took out a silver coin from his purse and clasped it in his hands. He prayed for Aoi's safe passage and asked that he two might one day be able to travel under Michi's guidance.

As he finished, he placed the coin at the foot of the great statue among countless others.

"I wonder how he listens to them all..." Jae-ha thought out loud as he looked to the many coins that now completely covered the base of the statue.