Fri May 28, 2004 7:37 pm
"Five thousand years of servitude. It is not I who has blessed you, Shaidar. It is you that has blessed me. You are a beacon of light for all of mankind to behold. Go forth, faithful servant; into the world. This is my gift to you... "
The woman sat upon the golden throne, the flat of Valor's glimmering blade held across her lap. She wept. She had willingly sent him to Myrken Wood, knowing that Serylia had been there. But this time she knew... Shaidar would not return. She bowed her head forward, tiny fingers coming to rest over her eyes as those fragile shoulders shook with each sob.
"All things come to an end, Shaidar. Eternity is but a matter of time. I love you, as I love all of my children. You have sacrificed all that you are, and all that you love for what is just in this world. For what I have asked of you, you have given tenfold. I can never repay you, Avatar... for what you have done for me... and for this cause. I can only hope that you remember. Never forget who you are, Shaidar. In dark times, it will guide you to the light. "
She watched from afar, that stricken sapphire gaze bearing a mixture of emotions... none of which any man or woman could even begin to understand. Her very essence cried out. A part of her that had been for so long was now gone. There they rested, asleep. The man and the Ranger, together at last.
It was altogether beautiful.
It was altogether... meant to be.