flooded lungs

The tall man had allowed Loren to approach, but still he hesitated; there was something in the other’s manner that called to mind a predator. But even though the man’s muscles bulged, Loren reminded himself that the strength of arms could only take someone so far. Besides, after growing up among people who’d tortured him for the slightest mistake, Loren had trouble finding anyone who wasn’t a family member all that threatening. “Thanks.” The librarian took a few cautious steps closer to the man and his unicorn, though he kept some distance between himself and the duo. However, as soon as he paused, the Launceleyn realized he would have to get close to the other man after all. Awkwardly shifting from foot to foot, Loren figured it was high time he found out who this man was. “I’ve seen you around the Hollowed Grounds, but never actually introduced myself. I’m Loren.” He closed the remaining gap between himself and the warrior, the librarian’s hand held out for a handshake. As long as Loren kept to polite and courteous, he figured he’d be okay. A flash of movement caught the corner of his eye, and he glanced over, gaze snagged by one of the puddles. An image formed within it: Ronin and Loren, sitting in the king’s quarters, as they had during their reunion. Only this time, the ex-captain was laughing and grinning of old, cured of the blight, and clearly welcoming his old friend back. As tears sprang to the Launceleyn’s eyes, he closed them and looked away, unwilling to entertain such fantasies. As he’d been doing all too often of late, he drew upon the cold, hard core his family had instilled in him, emotions banished to the depths of his mind. So when he reopened his mind, they were clear of any moisture. The puddles would not overcome him again, no matter what he might see in their depths. LOREN Not quite an open book