Raphaela, Vilja

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"If ever there is a tomorrow when we're not together, there is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we're apart - I'll always be with you."
-A.A Milne

"So I guess this is goodbye then?" Vilja asked, her voice breaking slightly. Raphaela nodded tiredly, resting herself against the staff of Sheogorath. "My soul is weakening. Soon I will be unable to exist in this world." Vilja rubbed her eyes with the sleeve of her dress. "I wish Martin wouldn't have had to break that stupid amulet. Then you could have stayed." The younger girl chuckled quietly. "Yes, along with Mehrunes Dagon and every daedra lord who decided to visit. No, this is how things has to be."

Vilja grabbed the arm of the now completely blind girl, staring into her empty eyes. "Let me come with you." Raphaela shook her head. "No. Sooner or later my realm would cause you to lose your mind, and I won't allow that to happen. Besides, I did make some preparations."

With some difficulty, she reached into her pockets, handing her friend the now almost renewed Amulet of Kings. "I had to replace the Chim-el Adabal-stone" she said. "But my soul is now bound to it. When I step through the portal to my realm, it will finally be completed. I entrust it to you for safekeeping." With shaking hands Vilja fastened the amulet around her neck, fighting back her tears. "But how will you be able to exist without a soul?" she asked mournfully.

"My body also contains the soul of Lord Sheogorath" Raphaela explained. "Sooner or later after I step into this portal, I will transform into him and the Amulet will be completed - but at least my soul will remain with you. Like the original stone that contained the souls of the previous emperors, my soul will provide you with protection and guidance in the same manner."

The two girls hugged each other silently for a long time while the sun started setting over Niben Bay. "Promise you won't forget me?" Vilja finally said, releasing her companion. Raphaela smiled at her. "If you won't forget me."

Finally after some time, she stared into the setting sun, giving Vilja's hand a squeeze before releasing it. "It's time." Vilja nodded, taking a few steps back as her friend slowly stumbled the last few steps toward the glowing portal.

"Live well, my friend." Raphaela said with a faint smile, stepping into the bright light. Then there was a flash of light and she was gone, along with the door to the Madgod's realm.