A heartfelt exchange

Malachi sat outside in the garden alone on the bench, his head filled with many thoughts and memories, and his heart heavy with worry. He felt like retreating, shrinking, or disappearing. It was difficult to even breathe despite the cool and calm breeze outside. Even the sound of the waves in the distance did nothing to soothe him. 

How could he? He was now truly faced with the consequences of his actions. King Richard, the man who came to him and his father with peace, was the father of the woman he loved. He could remember the disappointed look on his face when they had laughed at him and then… he had went on to invent his weapons and fight back. 

All of it led to the loss of his family. None of which would have happened if he had been courageous. Even a little. Ravina wouldn't have gone through this. Her sister lost, her father almost dying and her mother… her mother was dead.