In Deeper Waters

by F.T. Lukens

“You weren’t wrong yesterday. Sometimes we don’t know what’s happening in the kingdom until it’s too late, but I know now.

“It’s bad business to give away secrets.”

“It’s also bad for business to treat your political prisoners poorly.”

“When I finally took a moment to rest, everything crashed down. It was the first time I cried over losing them. It wasn’t the last, but it was the most… visceral.”

“I’m aware of all the risks. I make my own decisions, and I’m choosing to take you across the land and get you back home.”

“I’m fine,” he said after a moment. “I’m fine.” He shuddered. “I’m fine.” “Repeating it doesn’t make it true.”

“You don’t have to face any of these things alone. You’re home. We’re here. Whatever happens, we’ll be together.”

“They tortured you and you survived. That is what is important.”

I know you’ve always said they’re just rumors, but if enough people speak them, if enough people believe in them, then they aren’t just rumors. They are truth.

I know we’re both the last, and we’ve felt alone. But we could be alone together.”