All grown up

He closed his eyes and listened to Vanta speak, feeling the weight of his age and long life as he did so. Of course she was proud of them, it was a very Zee thing to say. She believed in her children, they had been everything to her. That she guided Vanta now… He didn’t understand what Vanta meant, speaking of the flood and why that would make it difficult for Zee. Unless she meant the loss, her children's fear and pain, perhaps that had been too much for her spirit.

He didn’t expect Vanta’s next words, and he blinked at her, taking it in. “You don’t intend to stay, do you?” He asked softly. His children were strong, and proud. So many of them went on to bigger things. It hurt, but he was proud of them, too. He leaned over and kissed Vanta’s forehead. “You have my blessing. Whatever you intend to do, I know you will do it well, and with the strength you’ve well earned in the many struggles of your young life.” He told her softly.

"Speech"