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His next moment of clarity comes when he’s standing next to her on the platform.
He knows. He isn’t sure how he knows, but he knows. This is it. This is the end of it. They’re standing on the platform. About to be raised up. And he’s finally free of the chains dragged him back to the powder lakes. This is it.
It’s over.
You’re more than welcome to come with us. Her words still echo in his ears. He’s sure she’d say the same thing, here and now, about him staying. But…
I’ll make my own way.
And perhaps he is running, again. Or perhaps he’s simply stepping away, because he’s done his part. They don’t need him anymore. This was what all that pain, those days lived again and again, were leading up to. And it was worth it. He can’t say it wasn’t worth it.
It’s worth it, because as he steps off, he turns back around to see them standing there, tall and proud. He sees her scanning the crowd, confused. Their eyes meet. Even with that distance.
She smiles, not sad like she had by the Salt, but with understanding. Reassurance. Nods at him. We’ll be okay.
He nods back.
So will I.
It’s over now. It’s okay.
They’re all free.