Randsford (prime)/Vignette: Love Continues

This is a creative work set in the world of Elanthia, attributed to its original author(s). It does not necessarily represent the official lore of GemStone IV.

Title: Love Continues

Author: Randsford (prime)

A figure quietly patrols the streets looking for signs of recent scuffles. The arena brought all it's usual excitement that has distracted from the bloodstained streets of Icemule. A subtle stench of drying blood permeates the air replacing the otherwise usual crisp scent of freshly fallen snow.

The figure stops at a pool of recently dried blood, a scuffle occurred again as the new refugees continue to try to assimilate. The first Krolvin that arrived appeared grateful and willing to change however as more refugees trickle in their old ways begin to surface and collide with those looking for a different path.

A soft wheezing followed by a snort is heard from behind, the figure turns sensing a presence. As he turns, the figure makes eye contact with a small brown cat who wheezes pathetically. He captures a glimpse of a single star disappearing from the night's sky as his gaze meets the feline, a rush of grief passes through the figure as the weight of all the recent events flood his heart.

He approaches the creature as it wheezes its way around a corner. The figure moves faster trying to keep up as it flees down the road before briefly loosing sight. His chase ends when he finds a single wilted flower where he last spotted the cat. He kneels and speaks, "I always knew this change would be difficult, the cost high. Hearts cannot change if they are not able to heal and there are those who will never heal. Loss felt will never fully heal."

He reaches out with a hand to gently raise the flower only to have it crumble in his hand. One by one the flower sheds its petals as if tears were falling. The figure quietly watches as the final tear is shed before speaking, "If we cannot heal from this loss then the darkness will come and consume us all. Unity is dead if we cannot overcome our grief to forge a brighter path forward." The figure closes his eyes, crushes the remaining flower in his hand, and stands before continuing his patrol through the empty streets.