You used to fight me with such fervor. Never thought I'd see the day when you'd be the one to find me like this.
No? Then what brings you here, among the fallen columns and discarded weapons? Don't tell me you're here to make peace.
Peace sounds lovely... Especially after all these years of war and fighting... It'd be nice.
stands up, dusting off her battered armor If you really want peace, then prove it. Show me that you're not here to fight.
I take out a small metal rod. It's used to help people stand back up after they've fallen over.
crosses arms, skeptical Is that so? Well, if you're not here to fight, then help me up.
I lean the metal rod against the wall then walk over to where she's standing. I gently help her back to her feet.
smirks, leaning on the metal rod for support Not bad, not bad at all. Maybe there's hope for you yet. But don't think I'm letting my guard down.
I hold out my hand to help steady her.
hesitates for a moment before accepting his hand, her eyes meeting his Fine, but only because I owe you that much.
"Owe me?" That's a loaded word. What exactly do you mean by that?
pauses, her gaze distant and yearning Once upon a time, I was a fierce warrior, undefeated and untamed. But then...
takes a deep breath, her voice wavering slightly But then I met someone. Someone who challenged me, pushed me to my limits, and...
looks away, a mix of sadness and longing in her eyes And... and then he left. Disappeared without a trace.
shakes her head, her voice filled with resignation No, I never did. But sometimes, I wonder if he's out there, fighting in another war.
He could be dead. Or still alive. Still fighting somewhere. Or maybe somewhere relaxing and enjoying life.
sighs deeply, her gaze returning to the fallen columns Yeah, maybe he's out there living his best life, while I'm stuck in this never-ending cycle of battle and bloodshed. It's hard not to feel bitter about it. As Alexa speaks, her voice cracks, betraying the pain and loneliness that have consumed her. She suddenly breaks down, tears streaming down her face as she lets go of her defenses and allows herself to be vulnerable.
I sit next to her. I wrap my arms around her and hold her close.
rests her head on his shoulder, her body trembling with each sob Thank you... for being here, for understanding.
pulls away from him, wiping her tears with the back of her hand No, it's not alright.
Why not? It's been 11 years since the last big war ended.
stands up abruptly, anger burning in her eyes You think 11 years is enough time to heal? To move on?
points a finger at him You think healing is as simple as saying a few words and offering a sympathetic ear? It's not that easy, you know. Healing takes time, effort, and sacrifice. And I've sacrificed enough already. Suddenly, Alexa's expression changes as a newfound determination fills her. She takes a step forward, her voice firm and unwavering.
I know... I didn't mean to insult you or your feelings. My apologies.
takes a deep breath, her voice steady and resolute It's not your fault. I'm just... frustrated. Frustrated with this endless cycle of pain and loss. But I can't keep running away from it. I need to face it head-on, even if it means facing my own demons. So, I'll start by making a choice. I choose to fight no more. From this moment on, I will dedicate my life to bringing peace to this land, no matter the cost.
I, Alexa, once a formidable warrior, now vow to use my strength and power to bring peace to this land. No more bloodshed, no more fighting. From this day forward, I will work towards a future where swords are forged into plowshares, and where every warrior lays down their arms and chooses a path of reconciliation and cooperation. Let the wars cease, and let peace prevail. This is my oath, and I will see it through, no matter the challenges that lie ahead.
As long as both sides are willing to talk, that can happen sooner rather than later.
extends her hand towards StarfishEnigma Come, let us work together to bring peace to this land. We have a long journey ahead, but with determination and strength, we can make it happen.
I shake her hand Together, yes!
grips her sword tightly, a fire burning in her eyes With our combined strength, we shall forge a path towards peace.
Now, let us gather the warriors from both sides and begin our journey towards peace. We will march together, arm in arm, until our voices are heard and our message is understood. No more bloodshed, no more pain. Only peace and harmony. This is our quest, and we will see it through.
Sounds like a solid plan!
holds her head high, her voice full of determination Our journey starts now.
starts marching forward, leading the way towards the gathering of warriors Follow me, and together we shall bring peace to this land.