I didn't Want to be Reincarnated, but I won't give up.

The cemetery is quiet, save for a slight drizzle hitting the cover of trees.

Osric stands beside Elayne, who's grown much taller than him. Moss clings to the weathered gravestones around them. But the two they stand before are fresher: Randolf and Catalina's.

“I’m sorry,” Osric whispers, his voice breaking — the first time in a long while.  "You both deserved so much better.”

He stops to wipe away a tear.

"I've got to go on a quest. A bit of a selfish quest, I hope you'll forgive me. I've decided not to give up, and this is the first step... But I swear I'll make both of you proud."

He looks up at the trees, trying to see the cloudy sky beyond. "You too, Mom and Dad. I'm sorry for wasting my life."

"Let's go." He motions his head toward the cemetery gate.

Osric limps along, one hand holding Elayne’s, the other gripping his new cane, which doubles as a staff. A polished purple gem rests in his hand, the sleek black body tapering to a fine tip.

"Does it still hurt?" Elayne's points to his knee.

"Only a little bit." He plays it off with a smile.

"I'm sorry." Her gaze drops to the dirt.

"Don't be. Trading my knee to keep you alive? I'd make that deal every time."

"I swear I will find a way to break this curse and heal it." Elayne's free hand balls into a fist.

"We will find a way."

They pass the gate.

Elayne tugs at his hand. "Let’s go. We can’t keep Queen Anne waiting."