“You spoke of love, Lorq,” Ruby cried, gripping the hand. “And this is what it brings you? My death, and the death and destruction of all I’ve ever loved, all I might have loved, even you—?” “You’re in liquid, Prince, so you’ll see them afire before you go. Ruby, the places where you’re already burned won’t be able to sweat. So you’ll die first. He’ll be able to watch you a few moments before his own fluids begin to boil, the rubber runs, the plastic melts—” “No!” The hand jerked from Ruby’s, swung across the room, and smashed into the tank face. “Criminal! Thief! Pirate! Murderer! No—!”
