“I hate you!” she cried; her temper as fiery as her hair.

“I don’t wish to punish you, but to keep you safe!” he said sadly. “I lost your Mother to the land; I cannot bear to lose you, too!”

Her misery broke his heart, but his duty was to protect her.

Eventually, contempt grew heavy in her heart. Accepting fate, she reached for her father’s hand. “I love you!” she cried as their hands joined.

Suddenly, the barrier dissipated, “I trust you.”

She kissed him softly, “I will return.”

“Be safe, daughter!” he prayed, and watched her break free.