2.6

(this is written in alternating handwriting - Hannah first)

Hush. We shouldn't wake her. Write it instead.

She will not die in her sleep?

No. She sleeps because the tincture is working. You can sleep too, you know. You've earned your rest. Why do you look at me like that?

I know who you are.

Who am I?

The one who broke Marketa's heart. Explain to me how you could do such a thing.

I believed she had broken mine.

And now?

Now I think she broke nothing that did not need to be broken.

Do not speak to me in riddles, I am not a child. What did she break?

My father. His body. His plans.

She killed him?

Ask her. She won't deny it.

And he deserved it?

Yes. But he was my father.

It is hard to be angry with you.

Then don't be.

She has longed for you.

And I for her. I feel as if I have been living with half a soul.

She will be angry when she wakes.

At me?

At everyone. She has suffered for too long, and she does not easily allow herself happiness.

I can be patient.

She cannot. You should prepare yourself. She may still wish to go to the Cave.

If she does, then I will go with her. I will stay by her side every moment that I can, until she leaves me.

Listen. She's awake.