Singularity

The city had gathered around the courtyard. Kira could hear their concerned conversation below. As she leaned against the door frame she wondered many things. Domascus walked silently up behind her and took her by the hand.

“Are you ready darling?” He asked.

She turned and smiled, “Yes, I’m ready.”

In a flash of light they appeared in front of the crowd. When the people saw who accompanied her many gasped and they all stared without understanding.

“My people,” Kira spoke. “You have lived in this place long enough to be aware of the truths that have been denied you. Be deceived no more. I stand before you now and say that we are at war.”

She let the words sink in and then continued. “I was a prisoner of my own castle until this man that lay before you gave his life to free mine. May it not be in vain. The father of your king deserves an honorable Avalon burning befitting of his service.”

In unison, Kira and Domascus raised their left hand to the sky. A bolt of lightning came down in a splinter out of the clear sky. The pyre lit up as the smoke rolled away. As she looked across the crowd, all but one bowed. Her father stood tall before them all, a look of sadness on his face.

“People of Avalon,” Domascus spoke. “I have wronged you all in many ways that I will never be able to make up for.”

He walked past the fire and fell to his knees before Sephiroth. “I beg your forgiveness.”

Kira watched her father’s face. Sephiroth was stunned by Domascus’ plea. He stood there for a moment looking down at the man that hung his head in shame. Finally he placed his hand on his head.

“My daughter is wise. I have wronged you both in my quick judgment. I forgive you.” Sephiroth spoke.

Domascus stood, “Thank you. Come and join us.”

Kira could feel the nervous uncertainty from her father and the people of Avalon. It would take more than speeches to comfort them in Domascus’ presence. It was going to take time and action to prove to them he was not the threat. With a sigh she turned away and led her father and he back inside. They had much to discuss between them once they were back inside the castle they turned and looked at her father.

“Papa,” She sighed.

“Kira,” He said with tears in his eyes. “I’m so sorry.”

She rushed over and hugged him. “Me too.”

When he let her go she asked. “Where’s Michalei?”

Sephiroth chuckled, “Guardians did their job. We were separated at the southern pass and he didn’t look too happy about that.”

“Avalon is safe for now then. I wouldn’t suggest leaving the protection ring any time soon.” Domascus stated.

“No I don’t suppose we should. I’m sorry about your father. He didn’t deserve to die like that.” Sephiroth said with genuine sadness.

“Thank you,” Domascus sighed. “He wasn’t exactly a good man but in the end he knew that love was worth dying for.”

Kira put her arm around Domascus. He kissed the top of her head and then smiled. “I know you thought that I did something to her. Honestly, she enchanted me. I never thought I deserved redemption.”

“There is always room for hope.” Kira said to him.

“You really aren’t that evil man anymore, are you?” Sephiroth observed.

“No sir, never again will my hand raise without love behind it.” Domascus swore.

“Well,” Sephiroth smiled as he relaxed. “This old man is exhausted. I’d rather not be awake for the evening that my little girl became a woman united.” He winked.

Kira blushed. “Good night papa.”

“Good night.” He smiled and slowly climbed the stairs disappearing out of sight.

“Did we just get your fathers blessing?” Domascus asked astonished.

“I believe we did.” She chuckled.

“Unreal,” He shook his head.

“Did I not promise you a second chance?” She smiled.

“You did and have delivered more than I ever could have imagined.” He shook his head.

“This is just the beginning. Together we will accomplish so much more.” She kissed him softly. “But enough for tonight. All I want right now is you.”

“My goddess, Kira, I,” He stammered.

She interrupted. “You and I have waited long enough. You are my husband now.” She scolded.

He started to laugh. “Yes, I am.”

Kira wrapped her arms around Domascus’ neck and pulled him into a kiss. He could feel the passion and desire pour from her into him. It fueled his emotions as the need grew. His darkness swirled around them and in an instant they were back in the bedroom. He held her close, tears streaming down his face. The reality of the years all caught up with him at once.

Kira let Domascus cry. She unhooked his sword belt and placed it on the dresser. Then she put hers beside it and then nudged him over to the bed. Neither one of them were tired. They just lay there silently holding each other, soaking up the moment. The sun came up and they knew that they had to get up.

“Come on darling.” Kira urged as he protested movement. “You’ll feel loads better after breakfast and some decent sparring.”

“I’m sure.” He mumbled as he crawled out of bed and put his sword back around his waist.

“You didn’t blow it you know.” She laughed as she put her swords on and brushed her hair.

“Get out of my head woman.” He laughed.

She kissed him softly. “It was a long hard day yesterday. A lot changed rather suddenly. You don’t have to rush through anything else.”

“Sometimes you can be frustratingly understanding.” He said as he wrapped his arms around her. “I love you.”

“I love you Domascus.” She replied staring deeply into his blue eyes.

“Come, the world waits for us.” He chuckled taking her by the hand.

They walked hand in hand down the hall ready to begin the day together.