"Why not, if that is what we choose?" he asks.

"Because, my King, you have a family. Though they believe you are dead now, it is only a matter of time before they will learn otherwise. You must return and resume the life that is rightfully yours."

"But you said they have moved on now."

I can sense him struggling, reaching out to grasp more of his memories trapped somewhere inside his mind.

"Life does not stop for others when one passes into the afterlife. Our loved ones must continue on their journey. Have no fear, your family still mourns your loss, as do the people of this island."

"I am not so sure of that," he says, looking away suddenly.

"Ultimately, it matters not. You are alive after all and you are still the king," I tell him in a straightforward matter.

"A great deal of time has passed," is his response. "Circumstances change, people change."

"The people here have long memories. I was but a child when you ruled before. Throughout the years, many have spoken of you in good terms." I pause momentarily, searching for better words. "My lord, the most difficult action will be revealing yourself again. Once you are beyond that, all will fall into place. Your children, though they are grown, need to know you. They will yearn for your guidance now that they are to be rulers themselves. At the very least, do not deny them the opportunity to have your counsel."

He fidgets uneasily. I knew that mentioning Darius and Ranae would have the desired effect on him. Though I know he worries about what his wife will do again, it is his children he should focus on, not her. Louisa betrayed him, as I see it, and he has me now. He does not need her.

"I promise to stay by your side as long as you wish and help you in any way I can. You need not face this alone."

I seal the promise with a kiss.