Epilogue
“WHAT’S GOING to happen now?” the Eldest wants to know when we are all sitting down to a mug of beer in the Newexter village hall. The villagers have gone home, taking their children with them. We’ve closed off the manor and buried Henry on a hillside behind the house. Saul and Ben are staying in the Eldest’s home for now. The village leader said they needed someone to look after them, and I think he made a good call. Being the Eldest’s adopted sons is a far cry from being leaders of a manor, but it will help Saul and Ben cope with the transition, and keep the rest of the youngsters safe in case one of them snaps – on either side of the line. There might be youngsters seeking revenge, after all.
Tony shrugs. “Whatever you want to happen, really. Whoever wants to stay on the island is free to do so. Whoever wants to go to the mainland and see the reconstructed world can come with us. That Fool’s ship” – he smiles when he uses the now redundant expression – “looks stable enough. I’ll risk sailing with her.”
I look sideways at my mother sitting between Colin and the Eldest, looking far happier than the last time I saw her. “I wouldn’t mind sailing there myself,” I say. Mother nods at me with a smile.
I have no idea if this is a brave thing I’m doing. To be honest, I’m not really looking forward to the chaos that will erupt when our society crumbles and has to re-invent itself. Perhaps a long sea crossing is the better option here.
Walt coughs conspicuously and raises an eyebrow. “Fair enough. As long as you promise you won’t snap at me constantly.”
I smile sweetly. “Oh, is this you acting all tough again because you feel insecure? Fool.”
Tony looks from me to Walt and back again. “Gee, this should be fun.”
I burst out laughing and turn red when Walt takes my hand in his. “Who knows,” I then say. “But I tell you, it’ll be interesting for sure.”
***
The next morning we wake up early, Walt and I. He stayed over in Colin’s old room. Together, we walk to the beach that I’ve been to so often as a child. Even then, I’d stare out over sea for hours, wondering what was out there.
“Are you curious?” he asks me softly, when we’re standing in the surf together. My hand fits his perfectly, and a warm, tingling glow spreads through my body.
I was never the most curious girl of the lot. I didn’t dare to be, because I was afraid I’d be disappointed. But now, I have enough courage. Now, I’m no longer alone.
“Yes,” I answer him as softly. “The world is waiting for us.”
After that, I lay my head on his shoulder and the two of us quietly watch the rising run.