Stars

They twinkle in the night and watch over us.

Passive observers of the world below.

Are they watching me right now?

The wind blew through my hair and I could feel the cold ground on my back

I clutched at my chest, to where the arrow had pierced it

"Meravek!" I heard a voice shout and a head entered my vision.

Cass. Tears streamed down her face as she crouched over me, sword dug into the dirt.

"No.. Please don't die! Don't leave me here alone!" she cried.

I coughed and blood spouted forth. Right, the situation at hand.

"Cass." I said weakly. "You have to go. Those bandits won't be far behind. You have to get out of here while I hold them off."

"Hold them off? You can't even stand! You took that arrow for me and now you're dying! We need to get you out of here!" she pleaded.

It was too late for that. My vision was already blurry and I could feel the pull from the other side.

"Just go. I still have enough power to make sure they can't follow. Go! While you can. I- I know this is a little late but, I love you." Finally admitting my feelings here. Damnit, I really am worthless as a man.

I began to focus on the staff I gripped in my right hand, feeling my remaining life charging the red crystal adorned on my prized weapon.

Then something unexpected happened.

A wet feeling pressed against my lips. I opened my eyes and found Cass kissing me as tears continued to flow from her beautiful eyes.

Time seemed to stop and I wish I could have enjoyed that moment forever, but soon enough we heard the distant shouts of the incoming bandits.

She pulled back and one final time I yelled "Go!"

Cass stared into my eyes as if to apologize.

I nodded and even managed an encouraging smile before she turned and ran out of the little gulley I had fallen into.

The pain in my chest increased as more blood began to flow, soaking my shirt with crimson.

I looked up into the starry night and saw Cass's twinkling eyes among the constellations.

Power brimmed within me as I harnessed my own life force to charge the spell.

Stomping feet came into view as the bandits entered the ravine. Eyes full of blood lust and greed.

Those eyes quickly became filled with terror as they realized what I was doing.

Glowing light flew forth from my staff and I raised it above me.

Those stars, I hope they've seen my story.

The twinkling lights bringing me one last moment of joy as the explosion bathed everything in flame.