I believe, if I were to pinpoint it to an exact time, I've loved you from the moment I layed eyes on you. It was your kind face that had caught my gaze, but I've found that your heart was just as, if not more captivating. And allowing the emotion to grow throughout our journey, little by little, I fell ever further in love with you.

I began to notice how everything about you- everything you did- had its charm. The way your petite features scrunched up when you felt brave. The way your face glowed with childlike curiosity at all the sights and sounds of our adventure. The way your curls fell around your face while you slept. The way your smile made me feel more alive than the air in my lungs.

And from the moment I met you, I wanted to protect you from every bad thing and make sure you never had a reason to cry. I never once had a regret. But now I've messed up and you're standing over me, and I'm the cause of your grief. I couldn't save my uncle or save my brother, and though you live and they die, I couldn't shield you from a hurt I cannot heal. How pathetic a man am I?

Though it may not matter, my only wish for you is to go and live. Do not burden yourself with my memory. I never once resented you for not noticing me or my feelings. I never let hate be tempered by my love. I was patient and never tried to make it known. I was content just being near you. Your happiness was my happiness. I can take pleasure just in having known you. So please cheer up, sorrow doesn't suit you and I cannot bear being the reason for your anguish.

It's getting hard to breathe, but if you wish, I'll hold on a bit longer. Oh, please don't look at my like that, for I no longer have the strength to wipe your tears. Please don't fret, for I cannot even feel the injuries. Please don't worry because your image is already blurring and I want to remember your smile.

Now go, I will be found eventually. I will have died alongside my kin fighting to protect my people. I could not have asked for a more noble death.

And yet... Your tears still fall. Your features are... scrunching up and your hair... has lost its curl. Your glowing face has dimmed. I wish you'd smile... because I can no longer... feel the air in my lungs...

Please... do not cry for our farewell...
Please... do not cry...
Please... do not...