Disclaimer: I do not own +anima.
This chapter is in first person, and from Soline's point of view. Just wanted to clear up any potential confusion. –Max'sgirl2013
I stared into my mother's face, reading her expression. In her face, I saw shock, denial, confusion, and joy. I could tell that she was debating over if it was really me or not. My suspicions were confirmed when she finally spoke.
"No. No, you can't be Soline. Soline is dead," she half said, half whispered. When she said that, it tore my heart up like a piece of old cloth. I almost broke down there and then, but Cooro nudged me in the back, helping me refocus. I had to make her believe me. This was my mother, after all, who took care of me for the 12 years of my life. She needs to know what is true. Then I remembered the necklace.
"Soline is not dead. She stands here, before you," Husky said in a regal manner. I nodded, and removed my necklace from my shirt. It was an amethyst stone on a silver chain, tinted with a faint purple color. I was given it on my tenth birthday. When Mother saw it, the doubt written all over her face was erased, and replacing it was a look of great joy. We embraced (hugged), and my Mother invited all of us in.
"I can't stay, mom, I'm sorry," I said regretfully. When I said this, her face fell immediately. She asked why. Instead of telling her, I spread my wings, unsure that the right words would come out of my mouth.
"You said you weren't dead," she said when she recovered from the shock. I retracted my wings in case someone was watching before I responded.
"I'm not dead. I'm just a +anima," I said. "That's why I can't stay. The research facility is looking for me. And by the way, don't tell anyone besides dad that I'm alive. Just keep pretending that I'm dead."
My mother and I shared a teary embrace, and then we parted. That parting was the hardest thing I've ever done. Senri hugged me after we left the village.
Okay, the story's back to 3rd person now.
The 5 +anima left Kelman the next day. Soline was still moping over the previous day, but she didn't have much time to grieve. Suddenly, on the road, a dozen men came out and tackled the group. A girl stepped before the captured +anima.
"I told you we would find you in the end," said Marca.
Thanks for reading Clothed in White Shadow. The story continues in the story Sorrow Search. Thanks so much for reading, especially you, Kiana-tan! –Max'sgirl
Okay, I lied. I added a bonus story on in the next chapter.
