Chapter 15: A Tearful Reunion

The Archduke's command echoed through the grand hall, setting off a flurry of activity. Servants scurried about, preparing the carriage for the long journey ahead. Knights assembled in formation, their armor gleaming. The Archduke and Archduchess, their faces etched with determination and worry, began their journey to Willowshade.

The journey, which would normally take nine to ten days, was completed in just four due to their haste. As they arrived in Willowshade, they found themselves standing before their son, Kai. They revealed to him that they had received a letter from Emily, but did not disclose its contents. Which now brings them to the present time.

Sakura, tears streaming down her face, held onto his hands. "Kai," she whispered, her voice choked with emotion. "We're here for you." Kai was silent, his mind filled with thoughts and questions. Hiro, noticing his confusion, placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "We are here to take you back home, Kai," he said, his voice firm yet gentle.

Kai remained silent for a moment before beginning to write. "Are you really sure that I am your son?" he asked. Hiro smiled at his sharpness, "You are a smart one." and knelt down beside him. He brought out the pendant Kai was wearing, "Place your thumb over the red core." As Kai did as he was told, the surface of the pendant glowed bright red. He was taken a back, when the light faded after a moment, and Hiro explained, "Only, if someone from our bloodline touches it, then it shall glow. If someone else does, it won't."

Kai looked at the pendant, then at Sakura and Hiro. "Mom really made sure that I won't suffer, even after she's gone, huh..." he thought and began to write again. "This is all too sudden…" he showed them. Sakura smiled at him and said, "It's okay, Kai. We understand. This is a lot to take in." Hearing this, a tear fell from Kai's eyes. He rubbed his cheeks, hid his face with one hand as both Sakura and Hiro gave him a comforting hug.

After some time, they found themselves in front of Emily's grave. Sakura stepped forward, "Thank you Emily, for taking care of our son and always protecting him." Hiro added, "You can rest in peace now, Emily. From here on out, we shall give him the care he deserves." They both bowed their heads in respect, while Kai stood behind and watched them.

They then returned to the carriage. Hiro helped Kai to sit, while Sakura sat beside him. She gave him a warm smile, while he looked out, deep in his thoughts. "We're going home, Kai," she said softly. "We're going home."