The rose petal floats on water. The kingfisher flashes above the pond. Life and beauty swirl in the midst of death.

I've come to give you your gift back, Mordeth," Cauthon whispered. "I consider our debt paid in full.

Death comes to us all; we can only choose how to face it when it comes.

May you shelter in the palm of the Creator's hand, and may the last embrace of the mother welcome you home.

If you ask the lion to protect from from wolves, you have only chosen to end in one belly instead of another.

The only way was forward, whatever lay at the end.

You read too much and understand too little.