Vaughn bowed his head. His daughter, Leona, was right beside him. He leaned into her. He was glad his girl had not been killed. If she had been among the lives lost, he might’ve broken. It was bad enough with five taken. Leona was his heart, his soul. Her death would’ve meant his as well.
His old flame for Evangeline had died out, replaced with a curiosity. She was pretty, but he didn’t know her. He watched her, speaking over the body of Natalya. Then Mabbit. “Jack, Onai. You were a beautiful pair, and honorable in battle. Elara, Natalya and Vader, you fought well and with honor. Rue will forever remain under protection.” Vaughn’s heart went out to the child. To lose her family . . .
Leona looked distant. Lost. He knew she was remembering the funeral for her cousin. Shot by hunters, never to ever return. Leona and Roxie had been crushed.
His daughter, Roxie. He hoped she was well. And McKenna, and the others. But he and Leona were never ever returning. Let them think he was dead, and his daughter too. Amberbjorne was his home. And his future.

“And a place in my heart, will always be hers”