Redhawk Caldera Stuck in '93.

It was much, much more painful than Primrose, which wasn't fair. Her brother's death had been hard, but also came when Alyx was injured and on her own emotional rollercoaster to boot. Rosie had flown under the radar somewhat, and by the time she'd allowed herself to hurt and grieve, he'd been gone a while and it was old news.

Niamh had been gone a while, too, but the news slugged her in the gut as if she had just passed away minutes ago. Alyx could keenly remember the last time she saw her mom. They'd said a tearful goodbye, but guiltily, she remembered expecting Niamh to be a lot harsher about her decision. She remembered thinking the worst of her mom more than once, especially when she found out Niamh had run off, and that came flooding back now as wave upon wave of sheer guilt. It was so strong it made her knees weak, forcing her to sink back on her haunches.

Had Niamh died thinking her family all despised her? Bronco certainly did, and Nellie hadn't been home for ages. Alyx and Quetzal both flew the coop the first chance they got, and Rosie ... Alyx was horrified at the thought of her mother's last moments being lonely ones.

There was a tightness in her throat that made it impossible to speak, so Alyx numbly nodded her agreement to stay. It was tempting to run and hide and pretend this nightmare wasn't happening, but wasn't like she could go far with that all on her mind. Towhee was right. She should be with family. Slowly, she looked dowm and signed, tell me what happened. It was likely going to be more painful than she could bear, but Alyx had to know.