It was a wonderful sentiment. Anna was touched to know that her mother and others from Mern had given their lives for her and the ones she loved. Certainly, she would return to the underwater city to personally thank Mern for their duties and give condolences for their losses. She kissed Burton on the forehead then walked off to let him speak to his son, Simon, alone. Anna pressed her hand against her belly, the thought of having a child gave her hope—someone to live for.
* * *
At the end of a successful mission, liberating planet Naan from the Nekrum’s chokehold, Burton Lang bathed in relief. The slow pulse of death was of no concern.
Sir Simon, the legendary Dark Knight who’d sailed to the edge of the world, stood before him. “Indrid Cole didn’t make it,” said Simon. “I thought you should know.” “Then,
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They loved each other like brothers and argued like brothers. He found humor in their spats. “But you did choose Montague.” “As the true King of Men I wanted Montague to be raised fair, without royal niceties, so he’d grow up humbled. When a king can put himself in a peasant’s position he can make the decisions needed to turn the world into a better place for everyone. You were to take my place, at his side as Head Master of Sciences,” Burton said. Demitri groaned. “I’ve had a terrible go at Head Master already.” “No. You didn’t.” “But I don’t have your power,” Demitri said. “I can’t do the things that you’ve done. I’m not an Angel.” “No. You are human. Together, you are all more powerful than any Angel or Demon. The Nekrums suppressed human civilization from realizing certain sciences for generations. I couldn’t let that go on any longer. So I intervened, but no more. You must lead them forward.” “What if I can’t? What if I’m not strong enough?” Demitri cried. He’d accumulated so much doubt in himself. Burton held out Vandagelle. “She will help