2.6

(this is written in alternating handwriting - Hannah first)

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

F: She will not die in her sleep?

H: 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?

F: I know who you are.

H: Who am I?

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

H: I believed she had broken mine.

F: And now?

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

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

H: My father. His body. His plans.

F: She killed him?

H: Ask her. She won't deny it.

F: And he deserved it?

H: Yes. But he was my father.

F: It is hard to be angry with you.

H: Then don't be.

F: She has longed for you.

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

F: She will be angry when she wakes.

H: At me?

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

H: I can be patient.

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

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

F: Listen. She's awake.