"Obsession"
by Blackjack Gabbiani
Chapter ThreeI tried to attend her funeral, which was held in the backyard of our simple home, but I could not bear the sight. My mother, who had been as exuberant and lively as ever just a short time before, being lowered into the ground...it was far too much for me to take. Again, I took refuge in my room, and again I held the ring to my chest.
Certain rituals, especially to a broken mind, provide comfort. But mine was quickly leading to frustration. She told me she would be there for me. So where was she? I needed her more than ever before and she was not here! Distraught, I pounded the cabinet as hard as I could.
A flash of gold, and the card fell to the ground.
I know I said earlier that the Ancient Mew card is my most valued possession. That is because I do not consider the ring to be mine, but rather still belonging to my mother. Even after all these years-- lifetimes in themselves--her presence remains with me.
However, I am positive that, had she lived to see my downfall, she would want nothing to do with me.
I stared at that card for a long time, not moving to pick it up, just observing it where it lay, taking in all the details. Gradually, my hand crept out to retrieve it; but I was interrupted by my father's entrance to my room.
"Jiri..."
I averted my gaze, fixated on the card. But I wasn't looking at it, not really.
"You know, tomorrow I'm going back to Seafoam...you'll be coming with me..."
/...mother, where are you? You told me you'd be here.../
"You may want to say goodbye. The...burial is...already over..."
/...you didn't lie to me, did you? Mother, you promised me.../
I didn't hear most of what he said. I managed to catch that he loved me, and that he'd help me gather my things, and that I should say farewell to my friends--foolish man, I have no friends, don't you know that?
The image of the card was growing fainter, my father's voice more distant. I was withdrawing, and soon I would be gone entirely.
/...mother, please, I need you now.../