ETAN
Borsche sighed heavily, his face dragging for the floor. He put a hand up to Etan's shoulder and gripped it as he spoke.
"We're all broken, son," he whispered. "We all are. But she's strong. She'll get through this. I'm certain of it. She knows your heart, and you know hers. And more importantly, your union is very clearly from the Father above. You were put on this earth to do this—you can't give up now. You two will be together—and you'll lead this nation, the entire continent, to peace. I can see it. So you can. I know you can. But you have to stay the course."
He stared at Etan, unwavering. His determination opened a gaping chasm in Etan's stomach. He dropped his face into his hands, the strength going out of his arms when he thought of not holding her again. Of not being able to offer even a hushed and frantic whisper of reassurance to her.
Of leaving without her ever learning the whole truth.
