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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"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

rest of my life." I paused, looking directly

I'm giving you that opportunity.

shock on his face was unmistakable. I waited,

breathing; everyone was waiting to see what

back. Whatever he had

This was what I owed Samuel, what I

grow up. I know what kind of person you are. I've been wanting to do exactly what you just described. My son was miserable recently, just training and studying

with you, but I watched him close himself off. I was worried about him. I tried talking to him, asked your father, but nothing helped. I just watched him sink deeper into that swamp. He loved you,

walked away. Tears silently streamed down my face as I watched

to everything around you," Martha's mocking voice appeared abruptly. Though not loud, it was enough to

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

shameful? Being the root cause yet pretending to be the victim. Your mother died years ago-how did you learn this trick from her?"

to her, but my instincts made me stop in my tracks.

be exactly what she expected, exciting

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tone dripped with sarcasm. "Samuel's father came to me earlier, begging to know what happened between his son and you! I told him you dumped him!

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

is all your

knew my eyes had turned black. Rage boiled within me like magma. I could barely control my transformation. In an instant, my

in mid-air. In that 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

opened my eyes to see Dad gripping Martha's arm tightly. She flashed me an evil smile. I felt something

it,"

equals and I'm no longer a member of this pack, we-"

of here!" I heard Logan shout as

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

Eventually, Ryder hoisted me over his shoulder. Fortunately, I had a clear view of Martha being kicked and dragged screaming to the cells. Leonard was helping, and