Dragoncrest Cliffs Cordelia

The caged songbird suffered exquisitely as she faced the reality that even if she had words to soothe her daughter, she would not be able to voice them. She felt flustered even though the eyes of her sister and brother were soft upon her, and ashamedly tucked her chin to her chest.

Her daughter’s accusation brought tears to her eyes; she squeezed them shut and shook her head. Her cheeks burned, and would have shown the truth had she pale skin that could blush. Her shame grew more profound to realize that the paternity of her grandchildren only mattered because of an ancient grudge.

When she felt a soft touch brush her cheek, she breathed in finally- only to realize that it was not a gesture of forgiveness from Suzu, but reassurance from Etienne. If she could have smiled at that moment, she would have. Pride and appreciation glistened for a fleeting moment in her eyes, before she looked to her sister.

She saw in Mireille the proud mother and leader that Sapphique deserved. Younger than her by a year, and yet wise enough to council a troubled young woman. How often had they leaned against one another during hard times? While she was grateful that Mireille could hoist the torch so high, she felt profound chagrin to realize that hers had begun to falter.

She should speak- but she was too frightened to make another attempt. Mireille spoke with such conviction, empathy and wisdom- it would be enough, she felt certain.