There Is a Way

“There is a way,” Longinus’ low, quiet voice slid out into the room, filling it and soaking into my mind. I held my breath, not wanting to miss his words, should any more come. Longinus rarely spoke, preferring instead to listen and wait, to act only when it was necessary, and to speak even less.

“Yes, there is a way,” Cornelius agreed. His voice sounded sad, so sad that I raised my eyes to meet his gaze. “But it will not be easy for you.”

I snorted, pulling my sorrow and fear into myself and locking it away. I swiped my hand over my eyes and sniffed. Regaining control. Regaining myself.

“Is it ever?” My voice dripped with sarcasm - anything to mask the copper taste of fear in my mouth.

Cornelius and Longinus watched me. Longinus’ expression was unfathomable, but Cornelius appeared thoughtful, as though he were considering, weighing my chances against the horseman and the destruction he portended.