Jill's Decision
The young red-headed warrior was outside of camp looking at Tahra, the place she and her father have occupied and watched over since she could remember. Tahra was in trouble now and it was all because of her father.
How can this be happening? My father loves these people, why would he carry out such a horrible order? Does Daein not care for its people? I thought my father was a respectable man? No, what am I saying? He is a respectable man, and he cares about his duty and his men. He would do anything for them. That's what this must be about, I must talk to him. If I can just talk to him maybe I can save him. I would give my life for him.
"Jill? What are you doing up here all alone?" Jill wiped her eyes and turned toward the voice. "Oh Ike it's you. I was just thinking about my father."
Ike looked Jill right in the eyes with the most serious but compassionate look she had ever seen. "Jill you are not alone in this. We are friends now and Mist considers you her own sister. We are here for you and I was thinking it might be best if you sat this one out. It might be too painful for you and I don't want to see you hurt."
Jill was overflowing with emotions. She was sad for her father, but she was happy for her new found friends and ideals. She had learned so much from her time with Ike's army and she finally found something worth fighting for.
"Thank you for your kind words Ike, but this is my battle too and if my father won't listen to me…I..I."
She dropped to her knees and began crying harder than she ever has before. Ike knelt down raised her head up. "You don't have to do anything. If your father won't listen I will fight him. I don't think a child should ever have to kill their parent. It would be too painful for you and I don't like to see you in pain or anyone for that matter. Just promise me you won't fight your father. Let me protect you."
Jill's face flushed and she embraced Ike. "Thank you." She parted and ran off to camp. She was never happy with letting her guard down. She hated vulnerability.
Ike watched as she headed for town. "I don't think I'm ready for this battle either."