Gary

"No!" I roared, watching as the kingdom burst into flames. I made a movement to dash in, to save whoever and whatever I could. 

But Jihyo held on to me. "It's too dangerous."

"Rosytrol killed my family!" I yelled "I am supposed to protect them! But..."

But I failed, because I was overconfident, because I made too many mistakes. Because, I am a worthless piece of trash...

"You aren't... It's not your fault..." she said, reading my mind. She hugged me tighter, willing me not to go.

"I have to..." I said pleadingly, prying her away. 

"Don't," she said again.  "Please..." she gently held my hands. "You have to stay safe..."

I looked at her. Her wide, shiny eyes, her silkly hair, her petite figure. Her everything. 

Then I hesitated.

Maybe, maybe she was more important that my mission. Or my kingdom. 

I turned away, ignoring the flames burning in the land. I will return one day, but not today.