The Water Phoenix

Chapter 22: Happiness or Sadness?

I felt my heart jump in my chest. The world seemed to spin as it brightened. I threw ma rams around Natsuhito's neck. He seemed surprised as a flicker of happiness passed his eyes.

"My little Phoenix rose from her ashes." He whispered in my ear. I felt his calm voice travel to my cheeks, covering them in a deep russet colour. "I hope so." I said. My mind wandering over the restless hours of training I had endured, waiting for this specific moment. "I'll go pack my bags." I said as I walked to my tent.

But, slowly, as I walked, dark stains started to warp my mind. Like ink blotches on a tear-stained paper. My eyebrows furrowed together.

War. War actually meant death. Pain. Destruction, and worse. I felt a lump in my throat form. I felt extremely disgusted by my passing joy a few minutes ago.

As if to mirror my constant thoughts, a saw a few young soldiers, and older ones. The older ones were staring in disdain at the hunger ones, who were jumping up and down in happiness.

I passed in front of them. My eyes sliding on the floor, in pure guilt.
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All my bags were packed. I walked to the trucks were everyone was throwing in their luggage. I did that as well, and then I inched closer to some laughing men.

I tried to not think of Futoshi, but the thoughts of him and my happiness to go to war broke the dam I had tried to build. A tear rolled down my cheek. Followed by another one. I clamped my hand in my mouth.

I felt a hand on my solider. I looked up. Kiributso was smiling at me. "Why are you crying Lady Keiko?" He asked gently. I rubbed my tears away. "I....when Natsuhito told me that he was taking me to war with him, I felt happy, but now I realise what a monster I am." I sobbed. Kiributso hugged me tight.

"You were happy because your heavy training was being rewarded. Do not cry Lady Keiko. The tears you are shedding now because of war proves your pure soul."

Two other voices agreed. "Yes." They said at the same time. I turned around. Natsuhito and General Tang were looking at me. Different types of loves in their eyes. I saw some other friends of mine behind waving at me. I smiled. Knowing that I had found a wonderful place.

I smiled. "Let's go make this Empire a better place." I said, straightening my head.

Natsuhito smiled. "I'm beside you my little Phoenix."