Chapter 10

All she ever seemed to do was dream foolish, useless dreams that she could do nothing to stop or change.

She shivered, sorrow robbing her of breath, hunching over herself as she watched hearts, minds, and souls shatter like inconsequential glass. She cradled in her arms her friend as tears leaked down her face.

“It’s time, shabi. Fight, or she’ll destroy us all,” she whispered, her voice low and hoarse, haunted by the waiting arms of death, and India could only cry, holding her closer, nearer even as blood stained her clothes and face. Then, like a wisp of smoke, the body in her hold disappeared, trailing away to the other side.

In that wretched cold, there was a fire. Fire to burn all that stood and leaving husks of skin and bones behind. But in all that carnage, India saw him, lover, husband, friend, and in his arms, beneath a bright moon, a kiss was given, a promise shared. S