#Trying get G'raha voice down more so hopefully this sounds like him..wanted focus on how he feels during that time for data and everything

[oathofpromises]

"I'll never stop holding you tight." — Data to G'raha

G’raha leaned in, pressing his face against the icy windowpane, feeling the frigid air seep through his skin. The gentle pitter-patter of raindrops creating a soothing melody that filled the room. He tightly crossed his arms, fixated on the moon hanging in the sky, its radiant reflection shimmering in his captivating, crimson eyes. Glancing down, the mage took a moment to observe his hands, moving them with deliberate slowness. This body was still his own, but now infused with the soul and memories of the Exarch.

A surge of awe and fear washed over him, causing his breath to catch in his throat. His consciousness, now altered, revealed the vastness of his transformed self. The memories of his future identity fused within him, allowing him to relive the emotions and memories of being the Exarch. Time blended together, merging past and present, alternating between G’raha Tia and The Exarch. The sensation electrified him, yet an unsettling undercurrent sent shivers down his spine. He instinctively placed a hand on his chest, feeling a faint ache resonate within his heart. It was still him, but at the same time, so much was still taking some getting used to.

Despite experiencing the thrill of it all, he couldn’t shake off the unease that filled him. He was well aware that he couldn’t confide in anyone, not even those who had taken great risks to rescue him. At least, not at this moment. He had been secretive as the Exarch, and though he had good reasons for it, he couldn’t escape the overwhelming guilt that consumed him.

“I can’t believe how easily they welcomed me, even after all the lies I’ve told them for so long,” muttered G’raha, rubbing his forehead. His eyes showed signs of exhaustion from staying up late, constantly analyzing their current situation, especially Data’s condition. Night after night, the brunet returned with dark circles under his eyes, and the red-headed Miqo’te knew all too well that the Warrior of Light was once again pushing himself to the limit.

Slowly, G’raha rose from the window seat and made his way to the kitchen. Since he couldn’t find rest, he decided to prepare some soothing lavender tea to alleviate his stress. It was a blend that he often made for Data whenever the warrior experienced severe anxiety attacks, combined with the aftermath of the echo.

As G’raha stirred the tea, his eyes slowly closed, recalling the day when Data had first arrived. It had required an immense amount of magic and centuries of effort to devise a solution and prevent the Eighth Umbra Calamity. It was a future that the scholar had fervently wished to evade. The memory of learning about Data’s disappearance and the devastating loss of numerous people due to Black Rose still weighed heavily on his heart.

The Exarch tightened his grip on his staff as he hurriedly descended the tower steps. The summoning had been successful, but unfortunately, it hadn’t brought Data to the desired location. Now, he would have to figure out how to explain to Lyna, his adopted daughter, why yet another stranger had appeared here. The people of this place were unaccustomed to outsiders, and it was crucial not to add any unnecessary stress to their lives.

Still, he continued to tell lies in order to conceal the truth. It was a sacrifice he was willing to make to prevent the undesirable future from becoming a reality. Coming to a halt, the Exarch felt a surge of excitement as he laid eyes on the brunet, causing a small smile to appear on his face.

He is still so beautiful…

The Exarch questioned if he had the right to think that way. Centuries had passed for him, but for Data, only a short time had elapsed since the tower was sealed. On their last night together, it was difficult to hide his intentions but sealing the tower was something only G’raha Tia could accomplish - a purpose.

After they had gone their separate ways, Data went to his room to rest, while the Exarch retreated to the Ocurlar. As soon as he entered the room, his legs gave way, causing him to lean against the door for support. He reached up and let his hood fall down his shoulders, running his hand through his hair. Crimson hues caught sight of the crystal mirror, stirring up a multitude of emotions within him. It had been centuries since the Exarch had allowed himself to feel, to reminisce about the man who effortlessly stole his heart.

“I apologize, Data... if you end up hating me for this, I can endure that.. But I cannot bear the thought of a future where you cease to exist. I simply won’t accept it,” murmured the Exarch, rising slowly to his feet. From the moment he had summoned Data, his decision had been made. He was willing to sacrifice his own life to save this world and the man he loved. The mages greatest sorrow was knowing the pain that awaited the brunet.

G’raha's eyes fluttered open, startled by the sensation of two arms encircling him from behind. As he turned, a smile emerged on his face, and he tenderly pressed his lips against the top of Data's head. In a tender gesture, he turned his body and embraced the other, their foreheads meeting in a gentle and loving touch.

“Welcome home my star. I apologize for not being right by your side," murmured G'raha, while he sensed Data's tail encircle his waist, drawing them even closer. With a soft touch, the brunet combed his fingers through his fiery red hair, admiring its vibrant hue, before meeting gaze of crimson.

'Your mind wandered back to your days as Exarch, didn't it? Raha…I will say it as many times as needed, but I’ll never stop holding you tight...’

Was he really that easy to read? Then again, Data always had a knack for sensing another person's feelings, even if he struggled with managing his own. G’raha's ears drooped slightly as he nodded.

"Yes...I just...I know we are together, but the weight of guilt for the pain you endured lingers in my mind. I put you through so much..made you even believe that G’raha Tia wasn’t there.”

The sound of their breaths mingled in the air as G'raha's eyes widened, feeling the gentle touch of Data's hand as they lovingly brushed a strand of hair away before their lips met. This feeling was unfamiliar to the red head, especially in their role as the Exarch. Throughout countless centuries, he had lived his life devoid of such tender affections. Yes, he had Lyna and cherished their bond, but this yearning was for a deeper, more intimate connection. Something that only one man had been able to give him, and yet he couldn't help but feel guilty for such wishes.

“Tis not a simple thing to forget everything. I know you love me, as I care for you, but we haven't had a chance to discuss your feelings. I want to hear it...all the feelings.” whispered G’raha, as he cupped the brunet face before leaning in and pressing their lips together again, his own tail wrapping around the brunet waist.

Through the passage of time, my love for you has only grown stronger...you are the treasure I cherish. The person I yearn to be near no matter what. The man that taught me to reach out my hand and take that leap.