Saddest Memory

LAZZYHEART

FLASHBACK

TIMELINE: 7 YEARS AGO

In the beautiful backyard of the Ivory Atelier mansion, just in front of the greenhouse, an open space was prepared for gatherings and tea parties. Today, however, it was quiet, a stage set for what was about to unfold. The garden was alive with vibrant colors, with roses blooming brightly under the sun's rays, their sweet scent filling the warm air. The greenhouse stood grandly at the center, overflowing with greenery, creating a peaceful backdrop.

On this day, Matthieu del Rosario, the head of the household, sat beside his wife, Roe Estaris. Matthieu was a well-known trillionaire, his wealth a subject of intrigue and speculation. While he was officially recognized as one of the richest people in the world, many believed he had even more wealth hidden away, gathered through a web of investments and secret dealings. His family was not only known for their wealth but also as inventors of groundbreaking technologies that shaped the world—everything from advanced medical devices used in their general hospitals across the Maharlika continent to military technologies that had influenced global power dynamics.

Matthieu's family had roots in the Alkebukan continent, where they had long served as loyal assassins for a powerful royal family. For generations, the Del Rosario name was synonymous with skill and loyalty. However, after a catastrophic event called the Great Cataclysm changed everything, Matthieu's family decided to move to the Maharlika continent.

In Maharlika, Matthieu's ancestral family transformed their skills from serving royalty into creating a covert group known as the Executioners. This organization of highly trained assassins operated under a strict moral code, taking contracts only on those they believed deserved punishment. They believed their work helped restore balance in a world filled with corruption and injustice. This unique approach earned them a reputation for being both feared and respected.

Growing up in this environment, Matthieu learned not only how to fight but also the philosophy behind their actions. His parents taught him that each mission was a chance to seek justice for the innocent, shaping him into a man of skill and conviction.

Roe Estaris had a different background. She came from a modest family but quickly rose to become the goddess of all high-ranking celebrities in Maharlika. Her fame was widely known, and she effortlessly captured the hearts of audiences across the continent. While her rise to stardom was swift, Roe also had hidden talents. Trained in self-defense and marksmanship by her father, a former military operative, she learned to navigate a dangerous industry where trust was limited.

Unlike Matthieu, Roe didn't inherit a legacy; she built her own through hard work and talent. Balancing her life as a celebrity with her skills as an assassin, she gained a reputation for her deadly efficiency. Her fame helped disguise her dangerous work, allowing her to operate without drawing suspicion.

Roe and Matthieu met during a high-stakes mission involving a powerful organization. Their skills complemented each other perfectly, and their professional partnership soon turned into a deep personal connection. After marrying, Roe became a vital part of the Del Rosario legacy, joining the family's secret organization.

Together, Matthieu and Roe embraced the values of the Executioners. They taught their children the importance of justice and the weight of their actions. Every mission was a lesson, and they made sure to discuss the moral implications of their work.

As they built their life together, Matthieu and Roe created a family dynamic filled with love, loyalty, and lethal skills. Their children grew up in a world where the ideals of the Executioners were not just stories but real experiences, ensuring that the legacy of justice and honor would continue for generations.

In the open space, two siblings engaged in a fierce sparring match. Rafayel Stine del Rosario, a confident 16-year-old with a mischievous glint in his eyes, faced his younger sister, Blithe, who was 13. The atmosphere crackled with energy as they moved, their bodies a blur of motion, each punch and kick filled with friendly rivalry.

"Come on, little dragonfly! You're finally getting the hang of it!" Stine teased, dodging a punch that nearly connected. His laughter echoed through the garden, a sound of encouragement.

Blithe narrowed her eyes, determination etched on her face. "Don't jest with me! I still have a long way to go!" Heart racing, she lunged forward, her fist aimed at her brother's shoulder, but he sidestepped her easily, a playful grin plastered on his face.

"You'll need to be quicker than that!" he replied, his tone light, though a spark of seriousness flickered in his eyes. "If you want to catch up, you'll need to think faster!"

Frustration mixed with excitement as Blithe huffed, her breath quickening. "Someday, I'll catch up and beat you at your own game!" With a swift spin, she attempted a roundhouse kick, but Stine blocked it with a quick movement, his muscles tense with effort.

"Nice try! But you're still too predictable," he said, his voice bright, though genuine respect shone in his eyes. "You need to mix it up. Surprise me!"

With a renewed focus, Blithe took a deep breath, her pulse quickening as she remembered their father's words about strategy. "Okay, then. No more holding back!" She feinted to the left, then quickly shifted to the right, launching a series of rapid punches aimed at his midsection.

Stine was caught off guard for a moment, barely managing to block her punches. "Whoa! Where did that come from?" he exclaimed, his grin widening in surprise. "Now you're fighting like a true Del Rosario!"

A rush of adrenaline surged through Blithe, igniting her spirit. "I told you I'm getting better! Just wait until I really unleash my skills!" With newfound confidence, she pressed forward, her movements becoming more fluid and decisive. She ducked under Stine's counterattack, spinning low to deliver a swift kick to his ankle, knocking him slightly off balance.

"Nice move!" Stine acknowledged, quickly regaining his footing. He retaliated with a spinning backfist aimed at her temple, but Blithe ducked just in time, feeling the rush of air as his fist whizzed over her head. She countered with a jumping knee strike that caught him in the ribs.

"Alright, but don't get too cocky!" Stine warned, a playful seriousness in his tone as he stepped back, calculating his next move. The air between them crackled with anticipation.

With fierce determination, Blithe launched a combination of punches—left, right, left—each one aimed with precision. Stine blocked the first two but felt the force of the third one land on his shoulder. He grinned, impressed by her persistence. "That was good! But you need to watch your openings!"

Seizing the moment, Stine countered with a swift roundhouse kick aimed for her side. Blithe narrowly ducked, feeling the rush of wind as his foot swept past her. She countered with a quick jab to his stomach, followed by a low kick to his leg that sent him stumbling back.

"Whoa, not bad!" Stine admitted, his eyes shining with surprise. "But I'm not going down that easily!"

With a burst of energy, he charged at her, launching a series of powerful punches that pushed her to her limits. Blithe blocked and weaved, countering with elbows and knees, their movements becoming a blur of speed and skill. The garden echoed with their laughter and the sounds of combat, each striking a testament to their bond.

Above their sparring match, Blithe's bracelet flickered to life as B-Ai, a whimsical AI resembling a bunny with butterfly wings, hovered in the air. Its sensors diligently recorded their movements, providing real-time feedback on strikes, blocks, and overall stamina through a vibrant holographic interface.

As Blithe prepared to execute her signature move, B-Ai's voice chimed with excitement. "Milady, are you ready? The special maneuver you've been training for will be epic! Let's show Master Rafayel what you've got!"

With unwavering determination, she launched into the maneuver. Twirling swiftly, she executed a triple turn kick—each precise kick aimed at Stine, reminiscent of a blade delivering multiple slashes. B-Ai's holographic display illuminated with colors, tracing the trajectory of her movements. "Incredible form! Look at those angles! Go, Milady!"

Each kick connected: first with Stine's side, then his shoulder, culminating in a powerful upward smash kick. "Yes! Perfect execution! You're a natural, Milady!" B-Ai exclaimed.

As she tumbled backward gracefully, Blithe twisted her body and struck him with her knee, catching him completely off guard. The movement mimicked a knife changing position for a better backstab strike. "Gotcha!" she shouted triumphantly, watching as Stine staggered back, surprise etched across his face.

"Whoa! Where did that come from?" he exclaimed, a mix of admiration and shock in his tone. "That was amazing!"

Matthieu and Roe exchanged stunned glances, both clearly impressed. "Did you see that?" Matthieu said, his voice filled with awe. "She just pulled off a phenomenal move!"

Roe nodded, her eyes wide. "I can't believe how skilled she's become! That was incredible!"

"I call it the Dragonfly Dance Maneuver!" Blithe declared, her heart racing with excitement. The adrenaline surged through her as she watched Stine regain his balance, a grin breaking across his face.

"Alright, you little dragonfly, I see you!" he laughed, shaking his head in disbelief. "You've really stepped up your game!"

B-Ai chimed in, its voice filled with enthusiasm. "That was a flawless maneuver, Milady! Your technique is unmatched! Keep practicing, and you'll be unstoppable!"

With renewed energy, they continued to spar, laughter mixing with their playful banter, weaving a rich tapestry of sibling camaraderie. Each punch and block was a testament to their bond, a reminder of their unique family dynamic. The sun shone down on them, illuminating not just their combat but the love and support flowing between them.

As they fought, their parents' laughter faded into the background, leaving only the sounds of their sparring and rustling leaves. It was a moment of pure joy, a slice of childhood amidst the complexities of their lives. For Blithe, this was a reminder that she was not just a Del Rosario by blood but by spirit as well.

In the shadows of the mansion, the legacy of the Executioners loomed large, a heavy mantle Stine and Blithe would inherit. With every punch thrown and every block countered, they were not just siblings but the next generation of a family bound by duty, honor, and a commitment to a cause greater than themselves.

As Stine and Blithe continued their spirited match, their laughter and playful banter filled the air, creating a lively atmosphere. The sun casts a warm glow over the garden, the colors of the flowers vibrant against the lush greenery. Suddenly, Matthieu and Roe shared a glance that signaled a shift in the mood.

"Alright, you two!" Matthieu called out, his voice firm yet warm. "Time to take a break and have some tea."

Blithe and Stine paused mid-spar, both panting slightly but smiling at each other, the thrill of competition still sparking between them. They shared a quick glance, excitement bubbling up at the thought of tea and snacks. With a nod, they bounded over to their parents.

"Come here, both of you," Roe said, her voice inviting. She gestured toward the table, which was beautifully set with steaming teapots and an array of snacks: flaky pastries, fresh fruit, and delicate sandwiches. The sweet aroma wafted through the air, making their mouths water.

Stine eagerly filled a cup for Blithe after they both sat down next to each other, a mischievous grin spreading across his face. "Care for some tea, little dragonfly?" he teased, raising the cup like a trophy.

"Just don't spill it this time, Stine!" Blithe shot back, swatting his arm playfully. "I'm still recovering from your 'accidental' splash last week!"

Matthieu chuckled, a deep, rich sound that filled the space. "You two are relentless. But I must say, Blithe, that Dragonfly Dance Maneuver was quite impressive. I didn't know you had it in you!"

Blithe's face flushed with pride as she took a sip of her tea. "Thanks, Dad! I've been practicing! Stine didn't see it coming!"

"Yeah, I'll admit, that was a slick move," Stine said, putting on a mock frown, folding his arms dramatically. "But don't let it get to your head! I'll be ready next time!"

Roe smiled warmly, her eyes sparkling with affection. "You both bring such joy to our home. Just remember to support each other, especially while we're away."

"Don't worry, Mom! I'll keep him in line," Blithe chimed, shooting Stine a cheeky grin, her confidence bubbling over like the tea in their cups.

Stine laughed, shaking his head, his demeanor lightening. "Good luck with that! I'm a tough one to handle!"

As they munched on pastries and sipped their tea, the atmosphere felt rich with warmth and laughter. Matthieu and Roe shared stories from their own youths, moments of playful memories that reminded Blithe and Stine of their own playful antics.

"Remember that time I accidentally knocked over the cake you made for your Father's birthday?" Matthieu recalled, laughter bubbling up as he spoke.

"Oh, how could I forget?" Roe replied, her eyes sparkling with mirth. "You spent the entire party trying to remake the cake, but you were so hopeless in the kitchen that it turned into a complete disaster! In the end, I had to step in to help. We didn't impress anyone with the cake, but your flour-covered appearance was definitely memorable!"

"Yeah, and you were the one who had to explain to your Father why there was a cake catastrophe!" Matthieu added, chuckling heartily.

Blithe giggled, picturing her father as a little boy, cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "I can totally see that! You were such a troublemaker!"

"Looks like you really weren't cut out for baking, Dad!" Stine chimed in, his grin wide, enjoying the playful banter.

But as the pastries dwindled and the cups emptied, Matthieu leaned back in his chair, the jovial atmosphere shifting once more to one of seriousness. He set his cup down carefully, the clink echoing in the sudden quiet. "Alright, you two," he said, his voice steady and commanding. "We need to discuss our upcoming departure."

The air felt charged, and Blithe and Stine exchanged glances, their smiles fading. "What do you need us to know?" Stine asked, his tone now serious, his youthful bravado replaced by concern.

Roe took a deep breath, her expression turning solemn. "While we're away, we'll be handling some important family matters. There's a lot at stake, and it's crucial that we maintain our connections."

Blithe felt a knot tighten in her stomach, anxiety creeping in. "What kind of matters? Is everything alright?" Her voice was barely above a whisper, a mixture of worry and curiosity.

"Everything is fine," Matthieu assured her, though a shadow crossed his face. "But we can't share all the details. Just know that it involves some negotiations and discussions that are vital for our family's future."

Stine frowned, crossing his arms tightly, leaning forward as if trying to draw more information from his parents. "Can't you at least give us a hint? We want to help!"

Roe smiled gently, recognizing their eagerness and concern. "We appreciate that, but some things must be handled privately. It's part of our family's tradition."

Matthieu nodded, his gaze serious yet filled with warmth. "Also, while we're gone, it's crucial that you keep up your training routine. You never know when you might need to be ready for something unexpected."

"Like a surprise attack?" Blithe quipped, trying to lighten the mood, but her parents' expressions remained stoic.

"Exactly," Matthieu said, nodding. "Always be prepared. This is not just about physical strength but also mental resilience. You'll need to support each other and stay vigilant."

Blithe nodded slowly, her heart heavy with responsibility. "We will. I promise we'll be careful." Her voice was steady, but inside, she felt a whirlwind of emotions—pride, fear, and an overwhelming desire to prove herself.

"And we'll train hard!" Stine chimed in, trying to lift the mood again, his voice filled with unwavering determination. "We'll even have a few epic battles in your absence!"

Matthieu and Roe exchanged a knowing glance, their expressions softening slightly. "That's the spirit!" Roe said, her voice warm and reassuring. "Just keep in touch, and don't hesitate to reach out if you need anything. We'll be available by phone."

As they finished their tea, the weight of the conversation lingered in the air like a thick fog. Blithe felt a mix of pride and anxiety, wanting to prove that she and Stine could handle whatever challenges lay ahead. She looked at her brother, who wore a determined expression, and felt a surge of confidence.

"Alright, let's wrap this up," Matthieu said, standing and gathering the empty cups. "We need to make sure we're prepared for our journey."

Blithe watched her parents move about the table, feeling a swell of love and determination. "We'll take care of everything, I promise."

Stine nodded in agreement, his earlier bravado returning with a flicker of excitement. "And we'll keep the mansion in top shape! Right, Blithe?"

"Right!" she replied, a smile breaking through her earlier worries. "We've got this!"

The sun began to dip lower in the sky, casting a golden hue over the garden as Matthieu and Roe discussed their travel plans. The evening air was thick with the scent of blooming flowers and the lingering taste of pastries, creating a comforting backdrop for the siblings' quiet conversation.

"Do you think they'll be okay?" Blithe murmured, her brow furrowed as she watched her parents. The weight of their departure felt real, a tangible thing pressing down on her chest.

Stine, noticing her concern, placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Of course! They're just handling some business. We'll be fine here. Plus, we have each other. If the worst comes, I'll protect you, no matter what, little dragonfly."

A small smile crept onto Blithe's face. "You're right. Together, we can face anything that comes our way."

The siblings shared a moment of understanding, their bond deepening as they faced the uncertainty ahead. They were not just siblings but partners in the legacy they were destined to uphold—a legacy built on duty, honor, and unwavering support for one another.

As the evening wore on and the sun set behind the horizon, the garden transformed into a canvas of shadows and soft light. Matthieu and Roe exchanged final words of encouragement with their children before gathering their belongings.

"Remember, we trust you both," Matthieu said, his voice filled with warmth. "And we'll be back before you know it. Keep training and take care of each other."

With that, they embraced, the love between them palpable. Blithe and Stine stood together, their hearts swelling with a mix of pride and apprehension as they watched their parents leave, ready to face whatever came next.

In the quiet that followed, Blithe turned To Stine, her expression resolute. "Let's make them proud."

"Absolutely," he replied, his eyes shining with determination. "We'll show them that we can handle anything that comes our way."

With that, the siblings set off into the evening, ready to embrace the challenges ahead, knowing that together, they were stronger than anything life could throw at them.

The next day dawned bright and clear, the sun casting a golden hue over the docks as Blithe and Stine stood side by side, their hearts heavy with mixed emotions. The air was crisp, filled with the scent of salt and adventure, yet it felt thick with an unshakeable tension. Their parents were preparing to leave on a grand yacht, a trip they had framed as a much-needed vacation. The yacht gleamed under the sunlight, its polished surface reflecting the family's wealth and status, but for the siblings, it felt like a bittersweet farewell.

As Roe stood at the edge of the dock, her figure framed by the yacht's grandeur, she called out, "Take care of each other!" Her voice was warm, yet it trembled slightly, a telltale sign of the emotions swirling beneath her calm exterior. Her eyes shimmered with a mixture of excitement and concern, a reflection of the love she had for her children.

Matthieu stood beside her, a reassuring smile on his face, his demeanor calm yet thoughtful. "We'll be back before you know it!" he added, his tone encouraging, as if trying to instill a sense of confidence in his children. "Remember, you're both capable of handling anything that comes your way."

Blithe forced a smile, but inside, her heart ached. She watched her parents board the yacht, a state-of-the-art vessel equipped with cutting-edge technology, feeling a sense of foreboding creep in like a shadow. "Safe travels! We'll miss you!" she shouted, her voice wavering as it barely contained the worry that threatened to break free. Each wave of the hand felt like a tug at her heart, and she couldn't shake the feeling that this was more than just a simple trip.

As the yacht began to pull away from the dock, the sound of the engine rumbling to life sent a shiver down her spine. Stine noticed her unease and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder, but the warmth didn't reach her heart. "They'll be fine," he reassured her, trying to infuse his voice with optimism. "They're skilled at what they do. Let's just focus on the time we have together here."

His words were meant to be a balm, but they felt insufficient against the weight of uncertainty pressing down on Blithe. She turned her gaze back to the yacht, now a small silhouette against the vast blue of the ocean. The waves rippled gently, but her mind was racing, envisioning scenarios that made her heart race with anxiety.

"What if they need us?" she murmured, her brow furrowed in thought. "What if something goes wrong?"

Stine, sensing her turmoil, squeezed her shoulder gently. "We can't control everything, Blithe. All we can do is trust them and take care of each other. We've got each other's backs, right?"

She met his gaze, and for a moment, the world around them faded. His confident smile began to ease her worries, filling her with a sense of camaraderie. "Right," she replied, her voice steadier now. "Together, we can handle anything."

With a deep breath, she turned her attention back to the yacht, watching as it grew smaller and smaller on the horizon. The sun glinted off the water, creating a shimmering path that seemed to lead into the unknown. She felt a mix of sadness and determination—their parents were embarking on a journey, but that didn't mean she and Stine couldn't carve out their own adventures.

"Let's make the most of today," Stine said, breaking the silence. "We could explore the old lighthouse or hit the training grounds. There's so much we can do!"

Blithe nodded, feeling a spark of excitement begin to replace her anxiety. "That sounds perfect! I'll race you to the training grounds!"

With a burst of energy, she took off, her laughter ringing out as she dashed down the dock. Stine followed, a wide grin on his face. As they ran, the weight of the moment began to lift. They were not just waiting for their parents to return; they were creating memories filled with promise and the bond that only siblings could share.

Once the yacht disappeared from view, the siblings hopped onto their motorcycle, a sleek model equipped with advanced AI and automatic driving capabilities. Blithe revved the engine, and they sped down the winding road, the wind whipping through their hair.

Suddenly, Stine's wristband glowed softly, and D-Ai's voice came through, urgent and clear. "Stine, urgent message from the household. Please respond immediately."

Stine glanced down, his expression shifting as urgency filled his eyes. "What's going on?" he muttered, tapping the wristband to answer. A pallor washed over his face as he listened intently, dread pooling in his stomach. "We're on our way!"

"Stine, what is it?" Blithe asked, her heart racing as they accelerated toward the mansion. Each passing moment deepened her unease, a sense of impending doom wrapping around her like a thick fog.

"Something's happened. We need to get home now!" Stine replied, his voice sharp as they wove through traffic, adrenaline coursing through both of them like electricity.

When they finally arrived, the sight that greeted them was devastating. The mansion—once a symbol of their family's legacy—was engulfed in flames, billowing smoke twisting upward into the sky like dark fingers reaching for the heavens. The air was thick with the acrid smell of burning wood and despair, a stark contrast to the vibrant garden where they had played just days before.

"Stay here!" Stine shouted, his heart pounding in his chest as he jumped off the motorcycle, which automatically powered down. "I have to go in—my friend is inside!"

"Stine, wait! I can't just stand here!" Blithe protested, panic rising in her chest as she felt the ground shift beneath her, the world tilting into chaos.

"Don't argue with me! Stay put!" he insisted, his voice fierce and unwavering as he sprinted toward the inferno, determination etched into every line of his face.

But Blithe's worry for Stine overpowered her instinct to obey. She couldn't just stand idly by while he risked his life. Ignoring the frantic shouts of the maidservants calling for them to stop, she dashed after him. The flames roared like a ravenous beast, consuming everything in their path, hungry for destruction.

As she entered the burning mansion, the heat hit her like a wall, searing her skin. Smoke filled her lungs, making her cough violently. Blithe pressed on, desperately searching for Stine amidst the chaos. The crackling of burning wood and the thud of falling debris surrounded her, and she struggled to breathe as she moved through the dark haze.

"Stine!" she called out, her voice hoarse, barely cutting through the cacophony of destruction. Panic surged within her as she fought against the thick smoke that clawed at her throat.

Suddenly, she spotted him. Stine was kneeling on the floor, tears streaming down his face as he held another boy in his arms. The boy lay unconscious, and Blithe's heart sank—his friend was lost in the fire. "Stine!" she cried, rushing toward him.

"Blithe! No!" he yelled, looking up with wild eyes. "Get out of here! It's too dangerous!" His voice was filled with desperation as he rocked back and forth, cradling his friend.

"Stine, we have to leave!" Blithe shouted back, her throat burning. She reached out, trying to pull him away from the wreckage, but he wouldn't budge.

"Watch out!" Stine screamed, his voice rising in panic.

Just then, a deafening explosion rocked the building. The ground shook violently, and Blithe was thrown backward, the force knocking her off her feet. She felt herself flying through the air, the world spinning as she crashed outside the mansion, landing hard on the ground.

As darkness began to close in around her, a figure emerged from the smoke. A strong pair of arms lifted her gently, cradling her against a warm chest. Blithe felt the heat of the fire on her skin, but it was a distant sensation overshadowed by the darkness enveloping her like a shroud.

The last thing she registered before succumbing to unconsciousness was the sound of Stine's frantic voice calling her name, mingled with the chaos around them—a haunting echo that would follow her into the void.

When Blithe came to, she found herself in a hospital bed, the sterile scent of antiseptic filling her nose, sharp and foreign. Confused and disoriented, she blinked against the harsh lights, her mind struggling to piece together the fragmented memories of the day before. Advanced medical technology surrounded her, with monitors beeping rhythmically, each sound a reminder of the precariousness of life.

"Blithe, thank goodness you're awake!" Her Aunt Cressida Marquise's voice reached her, filled with relief and worry, a lifeline in the sea of uncertainty. Beside her, her cousin Harleigh Coutinho looked anxious, his brow furrowed with concern, eyes darting between her and Cressida.

"What happened?" Blithe croaked, her throat dry and raw, dread coiling in her stomach. "Where's Stine? Where's Mom and Dad?"

Cressida's expression shifted to one of deep sorrow, her features tightening as if bracing against an unseen weight. "Blithe… there's something you need to know." She hesitated, as if the words were too heavy to bear, a palpable tension hanging in the air. "There was an accident… the yacht—your parents' yacht exploded."

Blithe's heart dropped, a cold dread washing over her, chilling her to the bone. "No… it can't be…" she whispered, trembling as the weight of the news sank in, each word a dagger to her heart.

"And Stine…" Cressida continued, her voice shaking, each syllable heavy with anguish. "He's missing. They haven't found him yet."

The world around Blithe spun as she processed the information, the edges of her vision darkening. "No!" she cried, her voice rising in anguish, desperation clawing at her throat. "This can't be happening! Stine!"

Her body shook with overwhelming grief, a tidal wave of sorrow crashing over her. Panic surged within her, and she felt as if she were losing control. In a fit of despair, she began to throw nearby objects—a tablet slid off the bedside table, crashing to the floor, the screen shattering like her emotions.

"Blithe, please!" Harleigh's voice broke through her turmoil, his hands reaching out to steady her. "Calm down! It's going to be okay. We'll find him, I promise!"

But her mind was a whirlwind of chaos. "No! You don't understand!" she shouted, tears streaming down her face. "They can't be gone! Stine can't be missing! I need him! I need—"

"Blithe!" Harleigh stepped closer, his voice firm yet gentle. "Breathe, okay? Just breathe with me." He took a deep breath, demonstrating with steady resolve, his eyes locked onto hers.

Blithe's frantic gasps began to slow, but the storm inside her raged on. The images of her family—her parents' smiles, Stine's laughter—haunted her, fueling the fire within. She was in a state of shock, her grief manifesting as anger and frustration.

"Everything is falling apart!" she cried, her voice cracking. "How can this be happening? I can't just sit here! I need to do something!"

"I know," Harleigh said softly, his hands still gripping her shoulders, grounding her. "But you need to focus. We'll figure this out together. You're not alone in this."

The medical team entered the room, their faces a blur of concern and urgency. Blithe felt a sharp prick in her arm as they injected her with something—advanced sedatives designed to calm her. Her body began to grow heavy, and the world around her started to fade.

"Just relax, Blithe," one of the nurses said gently, her voice soothing yet distant. "We need to calm you down."

As the sedative coursed through her veins, Blithe felt the storm within her quieting, but it was only a temporary reprieve. The anger, grief, and fear still roiled beneath the surface, waiting to break free.

In the depths of her unconsciousness, a storm of anger and torment brewed—an inner fury that would not be silenced, a burning desire for answers clawing at her very core, a fire igniting deep within.

Blithe knew, deep down, that she would not rest until she uncovered the truth behind the devastation that had shattered her world, a fierce determination igniting within her. She would not let their legacy end in flames; she would rise from the ashes and seek the vengeance that was her birthright.

END OF FLASHBACK