Hey, everyone! Sorry I haven't been around much, I've been running short on ideas. And I'm more than a little discouraged at the lack of review, but considering I got my masterwork done early, I guess I shouldn't complain. :) Anyways, I decided to do something a little different with this chapter, mostly because I had a hard time thinking of an appropriate childhood scene to go with it. So I went ahead and...well, you'll see. :)
Disclaimer: I don't own Halo.
Chapter Three: A Mother's Sorrow
My darling Alaya,
When I was your age, I remember dreaming of my future as a woman, of my husband and the family I would raise. I never thought I would be so blessed as to have both you and your brother in my life, or that your father - as great a leader as he was - would choose me. The family that the ancestors have blessed me with now...it is far more than I ever dared to hope for.
I watch you playing with Marin, and I cannot help but smile - so young and yet you lead! Marin listens to your words, and trusts them, but he also leads as easily - how often has he gotten you both into mischief? You are truly your father's children, and together there is nothing in the Empire that can stop you. Even as young as you are now, I know this. I pray that I will be able to see that day.
You are waving at me now, my daughter, with the cycle's first flowers in your hair. Alaya, my beloved, you do not understand why I do not play - I pray that you shall never have to understand. For even as I write these pages, even as I watch you grow, I feel my own body weakening. I do not know the reason, or if it is merely a passing thing, but my heart warns that time is short. Watching you play with your brother, laughing and innocent, is a comfort, but in time I fear even that shall be taken from me.
I dare not tell your father; he would not understand. Your father is a warrior first, my jewel, and he would either seek to combat my illness or confine me for my own safety. Such a thing is no life, and I will have none of it. No, I will continue to heal and cure, and be a mother to my children, for as long as the ancestors allow me. My time may be brief, but I shall treasure every moment.
With all my love,
Fara
