Fire and water is what started their old rivalry. A very long time ago, a much younger phoenix crashed near a certain dragon’s river. Gaja’s life cycle is never exactly one-hundred years to the day. No, that would make his life far, too easy. However, the closer he gets to that inevitable moment, the weaker he grows. It was a dangerous meeting as he didn’t know if Nam would be a threat to him in his weakest moments. Of course, he didn’t burn right there on the banks. Gaja managed to stagger off for that. To a secluded place where his ashes would be left in peace until he emerged from them again.

It took many, many centuries to get where they are now. From the outside, it looks like little has changed. But they know better. What else matters?

Gaja feigns offense, shooting a mock glare at Nam.

“Many birds have a great appreciation of flowers! Some common water snake might try to eat them.”