Tributes | Aktaion: Galyx Tribute | Offering

In the heart of a vast and ancient forest, where the whispers of the wind carried the secrets of the stars, stood the Standing Stones. As old as the universe itself, these monolithic wonders defied the ages, bearing witness to countless rituals dedicated to the enigmatic deity known as Galyx. A tradition as ancient as the stars, the rituals had evolved over the centuries, adapting to the beliefs and aspirations of those who sought the blessings of the divine.

 

Aktaion knew all of this as he flew swift and true above the dark canopy, his friend Khione not far behind. While he had no issue settling into an easy glide thanks to his broad wing structure, he knew the tyto had to put a bit more power into her wing strokes. Yet her flight remained steady and far more silent than his own.

 

She had explained it to him at one point, how the comb-like fringes of her feathers were capable of breaking up and displaying the air flow around her body, reducing the noisy turbulence of flight. The velvety texture of her whitish-blue feathers also worked to absorb sound waves. There had been another two or three features that he couldn’t recall.

 

It was already impressive enough.

 

Khione had attempted to soothe his nerves before they took flight, but he couldn’t help the snarl of twisted vines from taking root in his chest.

 

He was confident in his knowledge and relationship with Daius, having the Sun god as his patron deity. His tribute for Nokt had also been one of confidence as he had felt comfortable performing for the Sun God’s other half.

 

But Galyx…

 

Galyx, most often depicted as a moth made of the cosmos and stardust, was the all-seeing architect of everything, and little was known of their true nature. It was an indifferent being, neither cruel nor caring, just a silent observer as cold as Nokt's stars.

 

Aktaion was curious by nature and took the challenge in stride in spite of how uncertain he felt. He saw the sacred offerings as a potential opportunity to connect with Galyx in a deeply personal way, instead of attempting to appease the god with his shoddy building skills or with something mundane like hunting.

 

Khione had already told him she wouldn't be of much help as she was just as much in the dark about the moth god as he was.

 

He had reassured her that her company was more than enough.

 

---

 

The moon hung like a silver sickle in the sky and the air was filled with the fragrance of wildflowers. The ground itself hummed with a steady vibration, like the magic of the Standing Stones themselves were combing and sifting through his feathers, leaving a vibrating tingle in its wake.

 

Carrying his offering in a woven basket, Aktaion felt both excitement and trepidation. He had spent weeks contemplating the perfect tribute to present to Galyx, seeking a way to demonstrate his interest in becoming closer towards the silent god.

 

Khione alighted softly and quietly onto the ground next to him, her lovely chatter ceasing.

 

Arriving at the ancient site, Aktaion marveled at the sight before him. The Standing Stones stood tall and proud, their shadows dancing in the flickering torchlight.

 

Rumor had it that the flames never went out.

 

Aktaion felt more inclined to believe that Galyx's acolytes tended to the area in his stead.

 

Drawing a deep breath, the air humming with an otherworldly energy, Aktaion stepped forward and placed his offering at the base of the central stone. Inside the basket lay an assortment of items that represented his journey through life so far and his passions. A little bit of himself that he could impart to the cosmos.

 

In a small, woven basket, Aktaion had collected an assortment of trinkets. Each one held a unique significance, representing the diverse wonders of Galyx's creations. There were delicate shells from the shores of the Reamere, carrying the promises of distant oceans. Gleaming gemstones, polished smooth by the water from the stream he nested by, were placed alongside sparkling crystals that reflected the light like miniature stars.

 

Among the items that told of Galyx's creativity, were also items that told of who he was. A few petals from the rare Lady of the Marsh flower he'd sought after and collected, some fruits he'd preserved from a tropical island he was marooned on, a few feathers from Khione, his closest friend whom he often shared many of his adventures with, along with a bundle of his own bright plumage.

 

Aktaion carefully arranged his offering before the Standing Stones, making sure each trinket was visible to the night sky above.

 

He had not come seeking grand visions or extraordinary miracles. Instead, he had chosen to show his devotion and respect to Galyx by offering simple tokens that represented the beauty and diversity of the universe.

 

Khione shuffled closer to him, the looming stones making her appear a smidge smaller next to the gryph. Her warmth and presence provided a much needed comfort.

 

In the silence of the night, Aktaion began to speak, his voice carrying his hopes and dreams to the divine realm. He spoke not in the formal language of prayers but in the raw, honest words of his heart. He thanked Galyx for the beauty of nature that surrounded him and the inspiration that flowed through his veins. He spoke of his desire to continue exploring the lands they created and the creatures that inhabited the land. His words were not rehearsed but came forth with a sincerity and gratitude towards Galyx that resonated in the stillness. He thanked the divinity for the beauty and wonder of the universe, for the stars that guided travelers and the moon that brought light to the darkest nights.

 

Despite the enigma that surrounded Galyx, Aktaion found comfort in the knowledge that every living being was part of a grand cosmic design, orchestrated by the moth divinity themselves.

 

As Aktaion finished speaking, the softest of breezes rustled the ancient trees and ran nimble fingers through his quills. It felt like an approval and an acknowledgement of his offering. There were no glows or blatant signs of this acknowledgement, but instead presented as more of a feeling with the subtlest of nudges towards their favor.

 

Even the stars twinkled a bit brighter as the scent of wildflowers hung crisply in the air.

 

Aktaion bowed his head in silent reverence, Khione following his stead, allowing the moment to linger, as he embraced the serenity of the sacred site.

 

Aktaion knew that the exact form of the ritual mattered less than the sincerity and respect behind it. The Standing Stones had seen countless offerings throughout the ages, each reflecting the individuality and connection of the one who presented it. Galyx valued the uniqueness and diversity of creation, and the rituals were a celebration of that diversity.

 

With a final bow to the Standing Stones and the cosmic god itself, Aktaion and Khione took flight once more, feeling elated at the completion of his trials.

 

He would have to remember to get something nice for Khione and for her handler. He knew how close the two were and was touched that the female human wasn't bothered by the absence of her friend so that the tyto could help him.

 

But for now, he gave an excited screech, looping through the air as they banked back towards the mountains.

[1,243 words]