I couldn’t quite remember what milady always say when she coons you to sleep. It was always the nightmare about the war your father left for. Strange, master, for that is the only thing I can’t seem to grasp; that, until total darkness took over my forsaken memory.
But the things I do remember, I remember vividly. I still could remember the first time we saw each other. I was a parting gift from milord when he left. He said that I would be there to protect you when we wasn’t around, while he was there fighting a bigger battle to protect you. I felt honored that he trusted me to protect you, his only son.
I treasured our time together. I dutifully guarded you as you drifted off to your wonderlands you would visit night after night. I listened to your complains about broccoli and your feats on sharing some with Walter. I guarded your fortress when the teddies broke enemy lines.
You were growing, master, as was I. And I knew that I would lose you, but I never expected it to be so soon.
Do you remember the time when Walter picked me up and chewed on my arm? You were really upset with him that time. You didn’t go play with him out in the yard because you were worried that my arm would not be saved. I remember you seeing you crying, master, for my sake. There was no need for that, for I am a brave solder after all. But master, was it wrong that I felt happy in a way? That my thoughts, efforts, and sacrifices are I where in vain? That I actually meant something to you, master?
Then what happened?
After that, I remember being happy, master. You eventually forgave Walter for biting off my arm. But then it all changed when that night came. I remember milady going into your room so late in the night. I wondered; she had never seemed so distressed. You stirred, and eventually you were met with the eyes of your mother, crying.
You asked what was wrong. And for a moment your mother went silent, calming herself. She said it was about milord, your father. Milord was a good man. But I never saw his face again. And neither did you.
Master, I am deeply sorry. I was assigned to protect you, to make you happy. But even I couldn’t prevent this from happening.
Master, are you angry at me?
I couldn’t remember anything accurately past that. I remember parts the morning after. The last time I saw you. You looked so sad…
And then darkness.
I’m not mad, master. I understood what you had to do. I did not complete my duty.
I lost track of time in the darkness. Hours? Months? Years? I don’t know. But I never saw you again.
Master, now I think I remember what milady used to say.
<i>Love finds a way back.</i>
I’m out of the darkness now, master. I’m with a new friend that I have grown to love. I don’t know where Walter went, but there’s an old dog here that looked just like him. Any other way, I grew happier with this boy. He looks just like you. Although when I stare into his grandfather’s eyes, I am reminded of yours, master. Perhaps you’ve met before?
