The Aftermath - Mourning Losses

A rustle of grass was heard as Veronica slowly made her way to Lysandra's grave. The surroundings were calm and tranquil, nothing to how Veronica was feeling. She placed a bouquet on Lysandra's grave.

"What do you think, mother?" Veronica was able to croak out. Her voice was raw and her eyes were red. The pain of losing Lysandra was only multiplied with the lose of Shyvana. Both had fought much more than Veronica herself and yet she was here...it was almost unfair. They gave everything they had and lose it all.

She returned the hug with as much strength that she could muster. The mission clean up and the funerals had taken much of Veronica's time and sleep was becoming a luxury that she couldn't afford. "I will try mother." That was all Veronica could say. If she continued to work with the current group then she would most likely suffer from injuries...and possible die. She could promise the impossible but she could promise to be careful.

"What are you planning now? To retire to the forest?"

Veronica gave a tired smile.
"I would love to mother, but there is still so much to do. Relief and aid to the people of Pendragon and to the people of Arakai who are still homeless. There is also the questioning of the minister and helping those wounded in the attack plan like Leon and Akame." She sighed but mustered up another smile for Rosaline.

"I am made of tough stuff though...so please don't worry too much."

Veronica returned the embrace and nodded her head. "Alright I can take some time off. I am sure they can get work done with out me. It's just that..." Veronica trailed off looking at the tombstone. "Lysandra gave it her all and yet I am the one still here. I feel like I am worthless if I don't commit to everything, I will dishonor her sacrifice..."

"Thanks mom." Veronica said pulling Rosaline into a tighter embrace. It was good to have a mother again, especially such an understanding one. Veronica released her hold on Rosaline and smiled. The wind came along blew gently through her hair. There was a lot ahead of them, but they would be able to make it one step at a time.

Veronica knelt down and closed her eyes, linking one hand with the other. She had never prayed over a fallen comrade before. ANTI was an elite group...and there was no funeral for them when they were buried in the city of Arakai. So, she decided to "fill in the gaps" that Lysandra had missed.

"Well thank to you were got the minister...he is locked away at home base right now-" and Veronica continued about the happening for the past few days. The up and the downs. The achievements and disappointments and the successes and failures. When she was done Veronica stood up and nodded to Rosaline that she was finished.

Veronica nodded and allowed Rosaline to lead her back inside for dinner. As Rosaline prepared the meal, Veronica rubbed her eyes trying to hold off the exhaustion filling them. She had worked quite hard. Maybe Rosaline was right, it was time for a well deserved break.