Lalluna’s last words echoed in her mind. She could not understand them, could not allow herself — not if they meant she could have healed Jacq as he lay dying on the floor of Acorn. Such a thought could not be borne. Firmly, she put the past from her mind and tried to decide what would be best for her Lady, Lalluna. With desolate sureness, Katkin knew what she must do, and that it would take all her strength. Gently, she laid Lalluna in the dust and shifted into the Vastness.
A diffuse light permeated everything, even the rocks of the cavern, and lit the Uri’el that held the Goddess in its arms. Lalluna’s face and body looked perfect again, and so very, very beautiful. Katkin stood before the Uri’el for a moment; hoping it might get up and flee from her, so she might be free of her obliga
