It's nearly midnight by the time I make it back to my room after the celebration. After telling Sensei of my decision, Nya had insisted on having a party. I smile at the memory of Cole eating about a dozen pieces of cake despite his head injury and of Zane having to carry him off when the sugar gave him a headache as I collapse on my bed with a sigh. Everything is finally going right, and for once, I'm looking forward to my future.
My arm hits something, and when I grab onto whatever it is, it feels like paper. I sit up and look at the envelope in my hands. My stomach drops for a second, but then I realize it isn't like the ones Hale left for me. It's gold and intricately decorated with curlicues and other designs around the edges, and as I unravel it I'm faced with something I haven't seen in four years.
My dad's handwriting.
My darling Iris, it's been much too long since I've had contact with you. I am alive and well, and I'm sure you've grown into a strong, beautiful woman like your mother. I want you to know that what happened in the village was never your fault- if anything it was mine for not protecting you.
I know you've been searching for me, but I want you to forget about me for now. Focus on your training and one day we will see each other again, I promise.
As always, I love you more than you can imagine.
- Your father, Desmond -
I let the letter fall to the floor as my face explodes with a smile. My dad's alive, he's okay. Hale didn't do anything to hurt him. I'm going to see him again. I'm actually going to see my father again after so long. Everything is just so perfect, and for the first time in four years, I actually feel… happy.
I close my eyes as tears of joy start to stream down my face and I realize with a deep breath that everything is going to be alright. I'm here, I'm alive, I'm happy, I'm…
I'm finally home.