Noor had lit a fire when they got home. They didn’t say much. The gravity of the situation had hit them, but they also felt a kind of relief in the midst of the tragedy. A sense of relief that they weren’t alone.
They were lucky to be able to sleep indoors, even though the water had done a lot of damage. Most people in Manthos didn’t have that option that night.
The next day they got up early. While Noor and Areth were off to check on the rest of the family, Rusa, Myrto and Mnhmh stayed home to look after the children and to tidy up the worst mess. They still didn't have a lot of fresh water, but the river was not as muddy as the day before.
When they came to Tychon's house they could hear a child crying. Then they could see Tychon. He was not alive.
- Come to me Eris-baby, come to auntie Areth.
- Mama mama awawaw, Eris cried.
- Do you see Hellaya anywhere mother?
- No I don't. If she is alive we will find her later. Let's take Eris home for now.
- And my brother?
- We will bury him later. There is nothing we can do for him right now.
When they came to Phaidros house, the tragedy hit them again. Phaidros was dead, as were his three daughters. Miraculously, his wife and newborn son were still alive. His mother-in-law Apsara had lost everything and everyone, except her daughter. She was not in a good state.
- You should consider coming home with us, Noor suggested, this place is not safe for neither you nor the baby.
- We will see, Omera said. I found some blankets at least. We must at least bury our loved ones first.
- Well it's up to you of course. We will go to my sister now, and can pass by later if you need any help.
They felt a glimmer of hope when they came to Eira's house, or rather, what was left of it, and saw the children, as well as Khara, Bansabira and Polykarpos. The hope vanished when they discovered the three graves.
- Oh no! Not Eira! Noor broke down completely.
- At least she died very quickly, Polykarpos explained. Roxana unfortunately had a lot of pain when I found her, and died this morning. I couldn't help her ...
- I cannot bear what this disaster is doing to us! Noor cried, So much suffering and death, it's just too much.
- I know, Polykarpos said quietly. I almost wish I wasn't alive.
- We just have to keep going" said Khara. After all, the children, they need us.
- My sister, my sister. My heart! What will I do without you? How can I even continue?
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