So, you mentioned Sephiran in your review reply, and I think this is a better place to discuss it, as it's easier to keep replying etc. But there's almost not much to discuss, because I think you have him down pretty well. It seems reasonable that he would do all these things - especially the way he handles the children. We didn't see too much in the way of adult interaction.

I'm curious though: how AU is this for Sephiran? Your last few paragraphs imply he isn't trying to awaken the goddess - you call her Ashunera, too, so I'm guessing that history is a little different?

One could work their whole life for peace only to have it ripped away when the pyre’s embers were still warm.

I like this line. It has just the right balance of bitterness and resignation. :D It's weird, but for how much of Lehran I write, I've never really done anything with that. You do, though, and it always hits the right note.