A Crown of Chains

by Erin Phillips

“Change provides opportunities.

it makes me wonder if I’m seeking justice, or vengeance. Is there a difference in this situation?

Hope can be just as painful as it is precious.

Is it cruel to flirt with a fantasy? Because right now, sitting with him, I’d rather have this torturous temptation than no love at all.

‘One wrong word will start rumors, and rumors are the most dangerous thing at court. Rumors kill.’

And I know I deserve better than he offers me.

Is everyone so eager to see me fall?

It

feels a little bit more like dying.

“You’re worth a little recklessness now and then,”

To risk everything suddenly feels like risking nothing at all. It feels like hope.

“Someone can only be strong for so long. And I’ve reached my limit.”

“His patience does not run out.”

“Because I have seen Him bring good from the bad. He will do it again.”

Perhaps Ehyen has placed you here for such a time as this, so that you do not need to do anything but have faith, and through you He will save the lives of many.”

Do not shrink back in fear of these enemies who seek to destroy you. You have not been forgotten. Have faith and persevere.’

Faith is having courage, even when everything seems impossible, isn’t it?

Even when wishes don’t come true. Even when pain is the path to salvation.

“In darkness we gain a deeper understanding of light’s brilliance. And I found the courage to open my eyes, to see th...