Piecing Together the Shards: A Shards of War side series

A Wilting Flower

Trigger warning: Death of a Child character

If you have reached this far into the series, you already know what's about to happen, but even so, I, the author of this story, am still brought to tears by the tragic life I wrote for these characters and the pain and suffering they've gone through, so you've been warned.

Peony's third birthday approached, and the Kagayaki family busied themselves with preparations to make it a special day for the youngest member of their household. The house was adorned with colorful decorations, and the aroma of freshly baked treats filled the air.

On the morning of Peony's birthday, the family gathered in the living room, eager to celebrate. Matsu, Calie, and Marie had carefully selected gifts, and the sisters, Yumiko, Iyomei, and Khamenei, had created handmade cards filled with heartfelt messages.

As Peony entered the room, her eyes widened with delight at the sight of the festive decorations. "Happy birthday, Peony!" the family chorused, and Peony's face lit up with joy. She clapped her hands in excitement, taking in the love and warmth that surrounded her.

Matsu kneeled down to Peony's eye level, presenting a beautifully wrapped gift. "This is for you, my little spring flower. Happy birthday," he said with a smile. Peony eagerly tore open the wrapping paper, revealing a plush toy that she immediately hugged tightly.

Calie and Marie approached, each holding a gift. "Peony, we got you something special too," Calie said. Marie added, "We hope you like it, sweetie." Peony eagerly unwrapped their gifts, discovering a set of colorful building blocks and a charming storybook.

The sisters handed Peony their handmade cards, filled with drawings and heartfelt messages. "Happy birthday, Peony. We're so lucky to have you as part of our family," Yumiko expressed, her eyes shimmering with affection. Iyomei and Khamenei nodded in agreement, conveying their love through their words.

Old Man Steele, with a twinkle in his eyes, presented a small box. "A little something from me, dear Peony. May it bring you joy," he said. Peony opened the box to find a delicate necklace with a pendant shaped like a firefly, symbolizing the unity of their unique family.

As the day unfolded, laughter echoed through the Kagayaki ancestral home. The family gathered around a birthday cake adorned with three flickering candles. "Make a wish, Peony," Matsu encouraged, and with a gleeful smile, she closed her eyes and blew out the candles.

Amidst the joyous celebration, Calie and Marie exchanged glances, their hearts filled with gratitude for the family they had found. Matsu, Yumiko, Iyomei, Khamenei, Peony, and Old Man Steele reveled in the happiness that Peony's birthday brought, cherishing the bonds that held them together as a family.

After the candles were extinguished, Peony's infectious laughter filled the room. Matsu scooped her up, spinning her around as she giggled with delight. Calie and Marie exchanged smiles, reveling in the joy radiating from their adopted daughter.

"Thank you, everyone!" Peony exclaimed, her eyes sparkling. "This is the best birthday ever!"

Matsu ruffled her hair affectionately. "Well, you deserve nothing but the best, Peony."

Old Man Steele nodded, his wise gaze taking in the heartwarming scene. "Indeed, my dear. May your days continue to be filled with joy and love."

As the family settled down to enjoy the birthday cake, Yumiko couldn't help but feel a deep sense of gratitude. She looked at Matsu, Calie, and Marie, realizing how much their family had evolved over the years. "I never imagined our lives would take such unexpected turns," she admitted, her gaze filled with warmth.