Those words struck Kyran and Vespera like a bolt of lightning. Both of them stood still.
Vespera gave a short, sad laugh before she turned and walked toward Elestria, who rested there in quiet peace. "Foolish girl. Why did you love him so much?"
She said nothing more to Kyran.
"Thank you," Kyran said to Darien. He had never expected Darien to speak up for him at a time like this.
"I am not doing this for you." Elestria’s death had made Darien certain he would have no part of Kyran’s life, ever again, yet he still knew better than to put his own opinion above hers at a time like this. "Elestria loved you more than anyone. I will not let her leave this world carrying sadness." His voice was cold, though a sad, quiet smile touched his lips. "Truly, it has been long enough. Elestria has f
