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When Lu turned back, he was shimmering again. This time it took longer for him to coalesce. His face, beaming, was full and clear, but his body wavered in and out of focus. The field of wheat shone and undulated behind him like an endless rolling sea. I’ve waited as long as I could to meet you, and I’m so glad I did. Remember all I’ve told you. And remember what your father told you, as well. Lu stood there, dumbstruck. For one final time, young Grandfather spoke. Do the thing you’re most afraid of. Then he was gone. TWENTY-THREE Lu awoke in quiet darkness, her neck damp with sweat, sheets rucked in tangled disarray around her legs. Her body ached as if she’d been running for a long time, but her mind was clear and still. She stared up at the ceiling for a moment, awed yet strangely
- Writer
