Orion's grandson, his sweet face full of innocent curiosity, looked up at him with a question that pierced through the layers of peace that had settled over the family. "Grandpa," he asked quietly, "why is the forest white?"
Orion's smile faltered slightly, and he went still. The question stirred a flood of memories, vivid and painful, of the night when the forest had been consumed by white-hot flames. His hands trembled slightly as he set down his tea, the warmth of the cup fading as he was transported back to that harrowing moment.
He took a deep breath, his eyes clouded with the weight of the past. "The forest is white because," he began slowly, his voice tinged with a mix of sadness and resolve, "I had to do something very difficult that night. I needed to protect you."
His grandson's innocent gaze seemed to draw the pain out of him, making it impossible to shield the depth of his memories. Orion's heart ached as he tried to find the right words, knowing that even the gentlest explanation might still carry the sting of those dark times.
"You see," Orion continued, his voice soft and reflective, "when the forest was burning, it wasn't just fire. It was a magical battle, a fight to protect our family and ensure your safety. The forest turned white because it was consumed by a powerful cleansing magic. I had to burn away the darkness that threatened us, and in doing so, I gave up something very precious."
He paused, struggling to keep his composure as he looked at his grandson. The memory of the intense, searing heat, the blinding light of the flames, and the overwhelming sense of responsibility he had felt was still fresh in his mind. "I gave you back to your father that night," he explained, his voice barely above a whisper. "I needed to make sure you were safe, and that meant making sacrifices. The white flames were a part of that protection, a way to ensure you and everyone else were shielded from the harm that was trying to reach us."
Orion's eyes were distant, reflecting the haunting clarity of his recollections. He could almost feel the searing heat, the weight of the decision, and the isolation he had felt as he battled both the physical and emotional infernos. It was a moment of intense struggle, where he had fought not only against external darkness but also against the pain of parting from his loved ones for their safety.
He blinked, trying to focus on his grandson's face, wanting to reassure him even as he grappled with his own lingering trauma. "The white forest," he said gently, "represents that battle, the sacrifices made, and the love that protected you. It was a part of keeping you safe from harm, and it's a reminder of how much we care for each other."
His grandson nodded, sensing the gravity in his grandfather's tone. Orion drew the child into a gentle hug, his arms trembling slightly as he held him close. The warmth and love he felt for his family were the anchors that helped him cope with the residual shadows of his past.
As he pulled back, Orion managed a reassuring smile. "I'm here now," he said softly. "And you're safe. That's what matters most."
His grandson smiled back, comforted by the embrace and the soothing words. Orion watched him, feeling a mix of relief and lingering sadness. Despite the peace he had worked so hard to achieve, some memories would always carry the weight of their own scars. Yet, in moments like these, surrounded by family, he found solace and strength to face them.