"...For the brothers' bond would endure, until the end of time."
Hershel is 36, ?
"How are you holding up, Fruitcake?"
"Please don't let that be my name."
"It is to me— you know what, never mind. Can you remember anything?"
"You people pulled me out of the rubble and then I woke up here..."
I have no idea where 'here' is, or who I am for that matter. All I can garner is that I'm in some sort of medical facility. My eyes drift to the occupant of the bed beside mine; a pale young lady with blonde hair. As far as I know, she hasn't stirred yet.
I look back at the dark-haired man. "That's all I remember."
He puts a black briefcase on the bed. "If I remind you of who you are... who you were, it might stir up some memories. Not all of them are pleasant, though. It might be like opening an old scar." He glances down, rubbing his arm. "Or, I can create a completely new identity for you. The choice is all yours."
A chance to resume my former life... or a fresh start. I could be free of whatever demons haunt my past, at the cost of losing everything I have ever known.
After a few moments, I tell him my decision.
...
I feel... reborn, figuratively speaking. The group who saved me assign me a new address, a new career and a new ward to care for. She's still adjusting to this different life, but she's due to start school next week. Today, however, the two of us are going to meet one of my soon-to-be-colleagues.
Standing on the front doorstep, my daughter and I exchange a smile. Our pet cat– who insisted on accompanying us— meows impatiently at my feet. I roll my eyes and knock.
"I'll get it!"
The door swings open to reveal a boy in blue. There's a gasp. His eyes bulge at the sight of us. He releases a whimper and rushes into Aurora's arms. (Some things never change.)
"Luke, who was at the door...?" Hershel approaches the doorway and trails off.
Even the strongest of bonds can be broken...
I greet him, "Hello, brother."
...But given time, some bonds can be mended.
The End.
[[And thus concludes Bonds Left Unbroken. Thank you so much for your reviews, favourites and follows. I doubt I would've made it through without everyone's support. This definitely marks the end of the main narrative, but there may be some side-stories to follow. Once again, thank you all!]]