Whoosh!
Two rows of soldiers marched out in perfect unison, flanking the gates. They raised their right hands, saluting Jocelyn as one.-
Then, she saw General Abner Judson. Dressed in full uniform, he personally carried a solemn black sandalwood funerary urn toward her.
The urn was draped in the national flag. The vibrant colors instantly stung Jocelyn's eyes.
That flag represented her parents' unwavering conviction! When they had first accepted the government's mission to join the UN Peacekeeping Forces overseas, they had already made peace with the ultimate sacrifice.
"When your parents' remains were recovered, they were already intermingled. The overseas authorities cremated them together, and they are both resting in here," Abner said, a heavy trace of apology in his voice.
"That's for the best." Jocelyn gazed at the urn beneath the flag. "They loved each other so deeply. I think they'd be happy to stay together in death."
Abner nodded. He suddenly snapped to attention, standing perfectly straight as he extended the funerary urn toward her. "The spirits of our fallen heroes are immortal!"
Behind him, the rows of soldiers echoed in a deafening roar, "The spirits of our fallen heroes are immortal!"
The thunderous chant pierced the clouds.
Tears welled in Jocelyn's eyes. Keeping her spine perfectly straight, she delivered one final, solemn salute to the General and his men.
"I, Jocelyn Quinn, am bringing my parents home!" she shouted as she took the urn.
It was heavy in her arms, yet it brought an inexplicable sense of peace to her heart. Three years after they perished in a foreign land, she was finally bringing them home!
With the solemn handover complete, Abner finally realized she was alone.
"Where is your husband? He didn't come with you?" he asked, knowing she had married.
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