( his grace — the king she spoke of? he's been buildin' her world piecemeal from shadow an' flame, little things she's told him without him pryin' at it too much. he ain't never been one to ask a life story plain, but he remembers details. when she presses the pad of her thumb to his knuckles, his fingers flex against hers. a comfort. )

M'sorry to hear about your loss, ma'am.

( that first. ain't nothin' else for it. her next question makes him fall silent a spell. not on account'a any awkwardness or the like, just. considering. )

I, ah. There was a fella there with me when I died. I'd been tendin' him. I thought... maybe if I paid more attention, I'd know whether or not he made it out all right.