Epilogue

Alec walked the road from New Paris to the coast. As he always did, he took the time to pray before he reached his appointment.

Father, help me with this. I’m arranging an introduction to you for a person who likely doesn’t believe you exist. Though I pray for the right words to say, and the right questions to ask my next appointment, I know that there’s nothing I can say to anyone that could match the world you have made. Thank you for the world that proves your glory. Thank you for the promise that it will only get better.

Thank you for Beckah.

Mid-Prayer, his watch beeped, and he looked about. A little way down the beach, there was suddenly someone new. Hugh Alman had returned. He was wearing an outfit that reminded Alec of a uniform, though without any insignia or national indicators.

Hugh stood, looking carefully up at the clear sky, then checking himself, as if searching for injuries. Alec noted that, and stepped forward. “Hi.”

Hugh spun, suddenly alert, suspicious. He sized Alec up instantly. “Parlez vous englais?”

“In a manner of speaking. My name is Alec Ducard.” Alec nodded.

Alec held still as the newcomer sized him up, checking for weapons, uniforms, other people… Alec stayed a few feet back, letting the obvious soldier decide he wasn’t a threat. It would only take a moment, but it was long enough for him to finish his prayer silently.

Father, Thank you for new friends, and for the old. Thank you that your will is done on the earth, as it is in heaven. Thank you for forgiving our sins, and delivering us from wicked ones.

Amen.