Chapter Text
It was hot, so hot, it felt like the air was burning his lungs and his empty stomach certainly didn't help the depressing rush of emotions plaguing him. He couldn't remember how long it had been since his sister went on that supplies expedition. He couldn't remember the faces of the people assuring him she would make it home back safe. She didn't have to go without him, he would be able to help in some way or another, either by keeping watch of strangers and wild animals or carrying their stuff, he was very strong and energetic, and his big sister knew that.
His eyes were getting itchy, and he couldn't stop the tears from flowing out. That's right, Big Sister knew all of that and yet she made sure he stayed back home, somewhere safe, where the danger they might face couldn't reach him. All her birthday wishes ever since he was born were for him to stay healthy, to live a fulfilling life, to travel the world, and to enjoy the things their parents and she couldn't. He couldn't help but ask himself if in her mind this risk was worth taking, if the simple notion of death didn't faze her as long as she knew she was doing it for little brothers' sake.
Every step he took made his body steadily give up, his surroundings were getting foggy, yet he continued on with the thought of seeing his older sister for at least one more time. One more time is all he asks for right now really, only one more time for him to see her smile, her hair, her eyes. His shaggy body finally collapsed under the harsh conditions of the Sumerian desert, was this mercy from the gods, letting him be reunited with his sister in the afterlife? If so then he didn't mind at all, after all, is he truly left alive without the warmth of his sister's body near him?
Before his consciousness faded, he felt some strong arms picking him up. He never knew the Grim Reaper was so careful with dead bodies, well of course he must be careful with his body after all his family always said he was blessed by the gods.
"Sweet child, do you want to come with me? "
A nice voice rang in his ears. Come with her? Was the Grim Reaper asking for consent to kill him right now?
"Your mind must be full of confusion right now but don't worry, nobody will be able to harm you under my wing."
This afterlife deal sounded really nice so how could he disagree, big sister did u hear that? The gods have answered your prayers, and your little brother will never suffer again, so watch me closely from where you are, after all even in death I will seek your guidance.
Realizing he made the Grim Reaper wait a bit too long for his answer he carefully gave a small nod before peacefully drifting to sleep at the calming sound of death's heartbeat.
"Alyona, inform Natasha and the Tsaritsa that we will be returning earlier than previously thought."
"Yes, Father"