Glass Sword

She digs her nails into her hand.

She embraces Cal.

She asks Farley to bring her a blanket.

She rubs a pressure point on her neck.

His false death.

Her mother and father.

A rainy spring during their childhood.

Fishing on the coast.

Because Mare does not trust Kilorn.

Because Kilorn has hated Cal since they met in the Stilts.

Because Kilorn is jealous of Cal and Mare's relationship.

Because Kilorn would take over the conversation.

That she is part of the Scarlet Guard.

That she is a smuggler.

That she is part of the Seaskulls.

That she is related to Will Whistle.

He introduces himself as Captain Iral.

He does not salute to Nanny.

He wears a red cloak.

He has a captain's badge on his uniform.

Their guns appear heavy in their hands.

They look frightened.

They have the new recruit insignia on their arms.

Their rifles are unpolished.

A reminder of the strength of Red communities.

A sad reminder of past events.

A cage for living ghosts.

Too overwhelming to look at.

She runs out of the room.

She yells at Cal.

She starts to cry.

She becomes panicked.

He turns red.

He storms away.

He flinches.

He smiles.

He blushes.

He embraces her.

He turns away.

He tells her he will come back later.