Nimben Palace, Earlier That Morning
Elissa: Richard?
Richard: Yes?
Elissa: Are you alright?
Richard: My oldest sister is dead, ‘Lissa. Dead. Like she’s not coming back.
Elissa: I know. That’s why I’m asking if you’re alright.
Richard: How can I possibly be alright? I remember when Izzy was born and now I won’t see her until Watcher knows when.
Elissa: Rich, I know that you’re hurting. Really, I do. But you can’t deny how your niece and nephews are hurting. They’ve just lost their mother. Your mom just lost her daughter. Your sisters lost a sibling, just the same as you.
Richard: Why are you always right?
Elissa: Sometimes I just take guesses that happen to be right. Is there anything you need me to do?
Richard: Just.. just stay with me.













