Perhaps there was a quiet world for us all beyond the ice caps. The world's hidden secret. Was it really just a foal’s daydream to desire something such as…peace? A balance that didn’t involve the pain, destruction, and torment of other souls. Could we not all live in some semblance of tranquility? All those questions; yet to each I know the answer plainly. It was simple, clearcut, straightforward. No. When we died there is a promise for rest—but beyond that, welcome to the harsh climate stern lessoned Helovia. She was our breath, and throbbing heartbeat. Also a curse, because her inhabitants would never coexist on one landmass without war. I smile to myself with bitter humor, knowing full well that my wishes, are naïve.
Mauja spoke next, expressing his own condolences in a manner that seemed more forgiving than moments ago. I remained impassive, quietly listening until he said, “If you reach out, some things may come back to you." My frame stiffens visibly; I force it to relax as if nothing had happened, hoping they didn't notice the change. A family went through my mind, Cera, Ktulu, Hototo. How many times had duty come before their needs? How long before I lost them? Softly, like the snow that fell during Frostfall I utter, “Does it ever get easier? As you age, balancing your life with family—and comrades with vows?” Maybe it was the lack of male upbringing that lead to this tender question, perhaps it was because I saw them both as wiser figures—whichever it was I glanced up at Paladin with an unflinching stare and then shift my golden pools to Mauja.
.svg/2000px-Google_Chrome_icon_(2011).svg.png){kind=icon}
![[Image: 5388c9b80fe59]](http://images.helovia.net/index.php/view/5388c9b80fe59)
