Wilhelm nods wordlessly as fear tightens his chest and arrests his breath. Those bodiless whispering voices speculate on what would happen to him if the guards ever snatched him up. What secrets they would pry out of him, what punishments would fall on his head.

Thus ends their haphazard attempt at playing heroes.

Back at the door to his room, Wilhelm lingers to watch Kell continue down the hall. He doesn't try to comfort him with words or touch this time, but he can't help but worry about him. What must he feel, returning alone to the room where his brother lies so silent and still?