by Dane Bagley
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Terrence arose from the bed leaving Tira neither sleeping nor fully awake. The days since their matrimony had been glorious and unbearably short. Nothing about leaving her then was right. And yet, it could not be any other way. The dragon’s power grew daily, as did the destruction in its wake. It was only a matter of time before it came and destroyed Agedon. All indications were that it would be soon. The only way that he could be with Tira was if he left her then. He looked over and saw the soft skin on her back with her brown hair curled over it. She had trusted him with her life. He would do what he must.
He was ready before the sun had caused the birds to chirp. He walked towards the bed but Tira was already up. She embraced him and they kissed. He started to pull away and she held him closer. He held her tighter and they kissed some more. Then a sob. They continued to kiss and he could taste the salt from her tears. He sat on the bed and held her in his lap. She cried. He caressed. It broke his heart. He had removed her from everything—so they could be together. But, he was leaving her and she had nothing. She didn’t complain. But she cried, and bitter were her tears. Just a little light entered the room. Terrance stood, still holding Tira and then he laid her gently on the bed. The crying had stopped. He stooped to kiss her and they each whispered, ‘I love you.’ Terrance stood above her and looked over her as only he could. Her beauty and everything about her was majestic. He would do anything for her. It was time to go.