As Abaddon anticipated, Govad hosted a grand party fit for an apocalypse a few hours later. He forbid everyone from discussing the doom and gloom on the horizon for the night. Instead, he encouraged them to eat, drink and be merry.
While the Mandala Quarter was sparkling with happiness and friendship, Ariel returned to the Izanagi castle from her usual excursions. She had been gone for two days, and she was anxious to see Zakum.
She was both nervous and excited.
After that night together, the two of them had continued their physical dalliances. Zakum was insatiable, but he was also a generous lover. Moreover, they had known each other for so long, so there was no awkwardness between them.
However, they had not discussed the nature of their relationship. Ariel would have preferred if they could clarify their standing because ambiguous relationships made her a bit uncomfortable.