For some people, fanfic is there to make them happy. To make them feel good. But for me, not always. Sometimes, it is simply to make me feel, full stop. To evoke catharsis, or to move me.

This piece did that very, very well.


Author: sahiya
Title: An Impossible Day
Rating: PG


Summary: From the day she had first stepped onto Barrayaran soil, she had known that – barring some random act of chance – this is where she would be someday, in a wide, empty bed, arm stretched out to feel the cold sheets where he should have lain.


Death, whether expected or sudden, is part of life. It always produces powerful shifts and changes. And there is always a price to pay for the joy that love brings you. Always. Cordelia has always known this, and this story shows her beginning to come to terms with widowhood, as the people around her adjust to Aral's loss, as well.

The story is intelligently crafted, and characterization is note-perfect throughout. For everyone, but most especially for Cordelia. The story is powerful, emotionally, and carefully considers all the ramifications of Aral's death in beautiful, subtle detail.

It's achingly well-done, in other words. If you care about this series, you shouldn't miss it.