A Fractured Paradise

Chapter Ten (Part Two)

It began with a single knock. A comrade had come to visit with his family, to thank her. Another followed, and another. 

Caeli tried to hold back her tears. I don’t deserve this. 

The families of the fallen came after, hugging her. Thanking her for returning their loved ones. Their funerals were to be held the following day.

I can’t handle this. I should have protected them. 

None blamed her and she hated it. They should hate me. I failed them. I let our brethren die. Their loved ones are gone because I wasn’t strong enough. We lost our king because of my weakness. I should be dead too.

“Hey, little one.” Liber sat on her bed, his hand on her back. “Cae, let me hold you.”

Caeli collapsed into his chest, the two sobbing. 

“I’m so sorry.” She wept. “I didn’t get to him in time. I failed him and you. I’m sorry.”

“No, Cae.” Liber forced her to look into his eyes. “Sweet girl, I had thirty wonderful years with the love of my life. I got to grow up with him, marry him and have a  family. He may not be here to watch them grow, but his principles have already been instilled within our children. He was a fierce, loving man, but most of all he was selfless. We always knew there was a chance he wouldn’t return, and he’d always say ‘To die for my home is an honor. To allow its destruction would be the greatest dishonor.’ We will all miss him, but you did not fail him. He was always so proud of you, Caeli. His last few words contained his praise and love for you. You did not fail, you were the strongest among all.”

Caeli’s heart ached with Liber’s words. He held her tightly, Larissa reentering the room and joining them in their hug. 

               “I know I will see him again, Cae.” Liber whispered in her ear. “But until that day, I will be proud to watch you lead with the wisdom he left you.”