Night was on the way, the sun reaching its long fingers across the park in a final grasp for light. Only one cloud remained, dropping the occasional flake to the ground below. The wind blew a few stray snowflakes off their course and into the already damp long red hair. Katarina ignored the distraction, not moving from before the statue. It was a marvelous piece, depicting the details of the late General's face and armor spectacularly. Despite Swain's best efforts, it was erected in the middle of the park, at the heart of Noxus. A fitting place to remember the man who had served as the country's moral compass for so many years.

Katarina didn't believe her father was dead. She refused to believe that even Swain could have killed the Blade Master of Noxus so easily. But unlike Talon, she did not constantly search for him. For whatever reason, he has chosen to stay in hiding. That is explanation enough for her. The responsibilities and trials of life continued regardless, and so she would move on.

It would be easier if it didn't hurt so damn much.

The faintest whisper of snow caught her ear. "You're losing your touch, Talon," she said softly, a ghost of a smile on her face.

"I have always hated the snow," his voice responded. A cloak was draped over her shoulders, and she raised an eyebrow at its distinctive weight and clank of metal near the ends. Talon shrugged. "My obligation to protect you goes beyond the battle field."

"Yes. Obligation," she said quietly, turning to face the statue once more. Talon joined her by her side, silent.

"He would be ashamed of me," she said finally. "I vowed never to let my emotions cloud my judgement again. I broke my vow."

"You were tricked," Talon said.

"Had I not been blinded by my infatuation," she spat the word, "I would have seen what a terrible idea that plan was. I very nearly caused the destruction of Noxus."

"Noxus would not fall so easily."

"No, but another all-out war, against Bilgewater, Freljord, Demacia, and Ionia would have taken a terrible toll on her people. One I'm not sure we could have recovered from." She paused, breathing, trying to regain her composure.

"But you didn't," said Talon softly.

"Only because of your quick thinking."

"No, Katarina. My actions spared you. Your sacrifice is what spared Noxus. You were willing to give your life to right your wrong. Marcus would be proud of that."

Katarina turned to face the man who had become her closest companion. As usual, his face gave nothing away; but his eyes revealed more than words ever could. Slowly, like a child to their older sibling, she wrapped her arms around him, resting her forehead on his chest. Talon returned the soft hug, patting her back softly.

"I miss him so much," she breathed.

"I know."

"You're gonna find him, right?"

Talon pulled away, a hand on Katarina's shoulder as the other gently lifted her chin. "I promise, Kat. I will find your father."

Katarina smiled faintly. "I know."

Talon pulled her into a hug again, avoiding, out of habit, her almost completely healed arm. They stayed there a long moment, looking at the statue as the sunset set the clouds on fire in the sky.

"Even in a place such as this, we can find some beauty," Talon muttered, looking at the bright orange, red, and purple clouds.

Katarina rested her head on his shoulder. "Poetic." Talon only grunted in response, and she chuckled slightly. Slowly, they both began the walk back towards the castle. No tears were shed; it was not the Noxian way.

As they walked through the doors into the living room, Katarina sat down on the couch. Talon walked to the kitchen, getting some of the hot tea he knew Katarina would like.

"If you wish, I could set up the shuriken target shaped like Garen again…" he trailed off as he returned, watching the sleeping girl's already rhythmic breathing. "Perhaps tomorrow," he said softly, setting the tea down. He gingerly lifted Kat, resting her head against his chest as he carried her into her room. Placing her on the soft bed, he pulled the warm blankets over her. Then he pulled a small, brightly wrapped box, setting it on her nightstand. Leaning down, he kissed her gently on the forehead.

"Merry Christmas, Kat."