Chapter 20
Ruins of ancient Dracaenae enclave, Continent: Barat, the Year 2041, Planet: Grimoire
There was uncomfortable silence while the younger man mustered his courage to continue speaking. "It seems that I will have to find a place where I can become a painter and novelist. That will be part of my new identity." Chester shook his head wryly and laughed humorlessly.
Clarence didn't find this amusing, but it was heartbreaking. He suspected that Firenze had known Chester's dreams but couldn't find the right words to get Chester to recall them. That was pathetic and tragic.
Chester's next words startled Clarence because they followed his thoughts rather eerily accurately: "Funny how Firenze asked me what dreams I might pursue earlier. I told him I didn't remember." His smile was bitter. However, my lifelong friend, Cress, did remember and set the stage for me to follow it." His voice cracked as he spoke.
