A pyre...

A tired, grimy, and bloody party of three returned to the ruined monastery carrying the mutilated corpse of our fallen companion, Valeros. And valiantly did he fall; fighting what, I surmise was a Demon of some sorts. But in the end, it too, was vanquished, sent back to the Hells it came from.

And poor Spring. I think that the shock of seeing a companion slain in front of her was something she was ill prepared to experience. Not that I can say that I was actually prepared, but it was not unexpected either, that death could claim one of us.

For that matter, I would have died myself if not for the intervention of Spring.

Ahh, to open my eyes to see her beautiful, if frantic face looking down at me as she cradled my head in her lap, having just finished pouring the last remaining vial of healing elixir down my throat. I truly did not know for a few precious seconds if I was waking in in the Heavens, or back on our on dry, sandy world. If not for the clangor of battle, and the trumpeting howls of rage and hate from the demonic creature, I would have been sure that it was Heaven.

I remember after the battle had ended, moving to Spring. And she moved to me. I gathered her into a quick, but firm embrace and I whispered into her ear, “Thank the Gods your safe. I feared that it would get past us and harm you.” And I kissed her on the cheek, "Also, thank you! You saved me this day.

I wanted to keep holding, and kissing her, but there was a fallen companion to attend to. I am not so selfish as to dishonor one who gave his life.

On the trip back, Spring and I remained at each other's side, never more than an arms-length apart. I now realize that I have developed feelings, strong feelings, for Spring. How has this happened? We have talked one to the other but briefly. But it has happened. I am not sure, but I think she feels it too.

Well, enough melancholy, we have arrived and I must brief Alma on this day's foul events. And, though I doubt our resident Cleric has the favor of his God enough to save our companion from a permanent death, it must be sought. Or, if as I fear, prepare him for final honors.

I shall sing a proper song to honor his leave-taking if that is the case. And I know just the one. Yes, “The Beckoning Stars” is just right. His soul shall now be one with them. At least that is what I want to believe.

o0o