Eafa's farewell

Of all of Wulfherd's Mercians, it had been Eafa that Teceri had grown most fond of. The big man had become something of a father figure to the young Pict, protecting her from unwanted attention, offering support when she was in doubt. Mostly, though, Eafa had always tried to make her laugh, or at least smile.

As she looked at what the dark-riders had done to her friend, Teceri doubted she could ever smile again. She felt the hot tears running down her cheeks. More tears... Another death...

"Be brave, little one..." Eafa whispered. Despite his pain, he smiled. Teceri returned the smile without thinking, and Eafa's face lit up. "Finally..." he laughed softly, the the light of his eyes dimmed. His face relaxed, still with the hint of the smile.

Teceri wiped her tears away before touching her forehead to his.

"Farewell, Eafa..."