Isaiah looked down, at a lost for words. Alysha stood next to him, her arms wrapped around his right arm, and his left holding Justifier erect. The winter months were ending, and the weather was generally warmer. Today, however, the wind blew cold and rain fell lightly. So it was a grey scene as Talin approached, late as usual and unaware of what was going on. He smelled like the wild, his sword resting causally against his shoulder blade. Isaiah glanced back a moment and motioned Talin forward.

Talin frowned, stepped back and stood on Isaiah’s left side. He lowered his head and placed his sword, point down, standing before him with his hands wrapped around the hilt. They gazed upon their little brother, pain and loss etched into their features. Erick had been found, unfortunately it was not in the condition anyone was hoping for.

Mary left roughly a season ago, searching for Erick. She hadn’t returned yet. Isaiah sighed, a mix of rain and tear on his face. He held this small funeral for just family before Erick’s body was wrapped and placed into the Lamano’s area of the tombs under the Church. He still had trouble grasping the situation. Erick had been gone for so long and now… to just be thrown dead upon the outer edge of the Keep’s grounds. The guard patrol said that Erick’s body hadn’t been there any more than fifteen minutes.

Isaiah gazed up into the cloudy skies and cleared his throat. All of the family was there, even most of the house retainers and servants. “It is… sad to have my little brother returned to me in this state. He was young and a good man, although a bit cocky and spoiled at times. He was my little brother, and I failed to protect him…” Isaiah choked a bit on his words at this point, dropping his head and meeting the dead gaze of his brother. Alysha firmly grasped Isaiah’s arms, reassuring him. They stepped back as each member walked by and paid their respects to Erick Lamano.

As the priests from the Church prepared things, Isaiah and Talin helped in getting Erick’s body to the Church. This was their burden and they, as per Lamano tradition, handled everything with Erick up to the actual tomb encasement.

Alysha was back at the Keep, pondering events. A heavy knock at the front doors drew her attention and she went to answer. The Imperial guards stationed there bowed as she peeled back the door and the older one spoke. “Ms. Mary’s family is here to see the Lord and Lady.” Alysha quirked a brow and told the guard to let them in.