Albel was quiet. Even so, Zelda's presence beside him was powerful, just feeling her watching him. Feeling her spirit beside him, strong, unwavering in her support. Slowly his fist relaxed; slower still, hesitantly, he placed it on her shoulder.

"If nothing else... you are persistent. I suppose that is a good trait for a 'hero'. Even if it is annoying." A smirk, though weak, cracked through.

The horses were nearly upon them, then passing, pulling along the funeral carriage. The coffin would be empty, Albel knew, but it was still draped in Airyglyph's colors. It truly did befit a hero. The crowd began to murmur.

"Such a shame..."
"...too soon..."
"Because of his son..."
"...so disappointing..."
"...we're so disappointed in you."

"Enough!" Albel roared, his hand tightening on Zelda's shoulder. The people stared.

"It has been ten years... He has been gone ten years, and I carry this with me. And..." His voice wavered and he stopped, gritting his teeth. It had been a long time -- long enough. He was far from useless, he was far from weak. He'd done the impossible... and had found people he could rely on.

"I am done listening to you!"

Slowly, in stunned silence, the crowd began to fade a few people at a time until the street was empty. A few soft snowflakes began to fall.