Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 78

Xena's POV

The same intense applause erupted throughout the tent. A violin rendition of Schubert's melody began to play softly as Logan, Leonard, and two other members of my pack approached Samuel's casket. They lifted it slowly and carried it with measured steps toward the grassy area outside the tent, gently placing it on the wooden pyre that had been prepared.

My father handed the already-lit torch to Leonard, who shook his head in refusal. Logan, his eyes filled with unwavering determination, stepped forward and took it. I gripped Ama's hand tightly, as if it were my lifeline. After a moment's hesitation, Logan placed the torch beneath the wooden pyre supporting Samuel's body. The flames surged upward instantly, and I instinctively flinched. Logan returned to sit beside us. As the gentle, soothing music drifted through the air, we watched Samuel's body slowly turn to ash.

My heart felt like it was being torn in two. Each leap of the flames was like fire searing through my soul.

Dad sat there for about ten minutes before standing and walking to the front.

"Food and drinks are prepared in the backyard of the pack house. The family invites everyone to continue honoring Samuel's memory there."

People began to rise, gradually making their way toward the backyard. A few lingered, but most descended. Looking around, only Samuel's father remained, his gaze fixed on the

flames.

I took a deep breath, preparing to do something either extremely brave or extremely foolish. My heart pounded in my chest, my legs felt weak, but I knew I had to do this. For Samuel, for myself, and for the father who had lost his son.

"Excuse me, sir," I approached him, my entire body trembling. I could feel countless eyes

watching me.

"What is it?" The hatred in his eyes was almost tangible.

So it was extreme foolishness, then. I laughed bitterly in my mind.

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Chapter 78

"I wanted to tell you how truly sorry I am. Samuel was like a brother to me. I admired him deeply and loved him. I know my pain is nothing compared to yours, but I want you to

paused, looking directly into his eyes. "I also know that because of who I am, you might

emotions as you needed to. I'm giving you that opportunity. You

on his face was unmistakable. I waited, watching him

be breathing; everyone was

straightened my back. Whatever he had to say, I

it. This was what I owed Samuel, what I

what you just described. My son was miserable recently, just training and studying obsessively. I've never seen him like that. I don't know

talking to him, asked your father, but nothing helped. I just watched him sink deeper into that swamp. He loved you, and it killed him. You poisoned his mind, shattered his heart, and took his life. I know you'll carry this burden forever.

silently streamed down my face as I watched his retreating

to everything around you," Martha's mocking voice

a scene at Samuel's funeral. I didn't even look at her as I

shameful? Being the root cause yet pretending to be the victim. Your mother died years ago-how did you learn this trick from her?" Martha's voice grew louder. She was clearly enjoying

I know I shouldn't respond to her, but my instincts made me stop in my tracks. I turned, my gaze cold as

seemed to be exactly what she expected, exciting her even more.

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Chapter 78

happened between his son and

the closer I got, the more excited and frenzied she became. Her voice had escalated to a scream, spittle flying from her mouth.

this is

barely control my

moment, an overwhelming sense of shame crashed over me. I was still the same as before, just as Martha had said. I slowly lowered my hand, closing my eyes in anguish. SLAP! A sharp pain exploded

falling to the ground.

it, Martha!" Dad

tightly. She flashed me an evil smile. I felt something running down

bitch deserved it," she spat

a

of here!" I heard

to the cells!" Dad commanded Martha sternly. "Take her to the cells,

pay. Eventually, Ryder hoisted me over his shoulder. Fortunately, I had a clear view of Martha being kicked and dragged screaming to