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.' "
"I was not specific. I did not mention you by name, but
that does not mean he did not know you also were called to
fulfill your oath."
"Did you tell him," the stag inquired, "How long it
has been since we first heard that call?"
The king shifted, a move of discomfort in the living.
"Discussing these things is not easy. Have you no
understanding of how shameful it feels to rehearse a
long-broken pledge?"
"I have more feelings than I commonly show. Let us
change the subject."
"I shall. Something troubles you."
"Of course. I am in love." Even now the admission
came hard.
"That is always trouble. Unrequited, I assume."
"Strangely, yes. Can you imagine my love not being
returned?"
"By now, it is easier to imagine than it once was; habit
and repetition make all realities seem more real." Seeing
the stag tense, the king added hastily, "But because it was
true long ago, and for your feelings now, let us say it
seems unimaginable."
"It does." The stag tossed his head. "I will, of course,
want revenge for my hurt feelings."
"Feelings?" The king struck one shadowy arm with
another. The blow left no mark, and the king's expression
did not change. "You can still speak of feelings?"
"I can
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