Problems at Home

*Ana*

“They are what?” I find myself having to repeat. But it’s not like I’ve misheard it. No, my ears are sharper now. I couldn’t mishear anything if I wanted to.

It’s just that I don’t want to believe it. It’s like my mind is refusing to process the words. A wall has come up to block my logical senses.

I know it, but I refuse to accept it.

“What did you say?” I look at Admiral Nugen once more. How foolish I feel right now, but Admiral Nugen bears with me.

No, he does much more than that, I can tell. I see he’s tired. His clothes are ratty from what must have been riding nonstop. And he comes alone. He made the journey by himself.

And now he is as patient to deal with me as I am. I can’t help but like Admiral Nugen all the more. He is truly loyal.

“The Bulgeons have joined forces with the southern colonies.” I feel bad for making him repeat it. But he does without a shred of annoyance.

But in the next part, he seems to stall for words.

“What is it?” I feel myself hold my breath.

W