Book 2: Last Chance

Anwen

My mouth falls open. Estrella’s whole body is consumed in that light, the glow I saw the night her father was killed. She tilts her head back with a beatific smile, and something in my ribcage heals too. I knew she was going to be beautiful. But the dress, her hair, the smile… it’s all too much. She looks like the Goddess Herself, more beautiful if I won’t be struck down for saying it.

The holy woman raises her arms. “Praise the Moon Goddess, our kingdom is made whole!”

Prayers whisper through the crowd around me. I push forward, Baz on my heels. I have to be closer to her. It’s an animal need, just like in the Haze itself.

“Many long centuries ago, two families led Sundrop Gem. From the first brothers, Jasiah and Jadiel, our twin kings and queens were always born. They led our people in tandem, one heart beating in two chests,” the holy woman says.

I keep pushing. It’s a nice story, but all I can think about is her, the scent of