Three days later, at the Serenity Rest Chapel.
Vespera had turned the quiet hall into something soft and white, like a dream. No cold flowers. No stiff, dark arrangements. Instead, jasmine, soft white roses, and pure white blossoms lay all around Elestria, holding her gently as she rested.
Kyran stood and looked at her. That strange, heavy feeling twisted in his chest once more. He felt as though he were falling apart. His body moved forward slowly, like a man in a dream, afraid to draw near, while his heart felt far away, watching all this happen from somewhere above.
"Mr. Valtor." Vespera's voice, worn and thin, brought him back to where he stood.
He turned slowly, stiff and heavy, and looked at Elestria's dearest friend. She had dressed with care, but no one could miss how tired and
