"Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success-achieved."
-Helen Keller
1880 - 1968
***
Riding for what seemed like an eternity, they stopped the black stallion in the open clearing, away from the dangers hidden in the darkness of night.
He knew that he had to say it, for he might not have another chance. "I love you. I always have." Then he pulled her close to his chest, his breathing coming harder with every beat of his heart.
"I love you, too," was the answer she breathed into his chest; then she looked into his dark brown eyes, "and I always will."
He knew they only had this minute, this one moment, transcending time.
She turned her chin up to his and their lips met, and passion consumed them like fire. He hungered for her, knowing this might be their last chance.
For they fought not only for their love, but for Cambria. And if they failed, they, along with Cambria, would surely die. They could not allow that to happen. At all cost, Cambria must survive.
As their lips parted, they looked into each other's eyes, perhaps for the last time.
But at that moment, time was suspended only for them.
Then together, they turned to meet their fate, as the darkness crept slowly and purposefully toward them, with bloodlust in its flaming eyes.
Aksara