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More than one groan sounded as realisation hit them all.

“That was almost worse than the strength test,” D.C. said. Seeing Alex’s incredulity, she repeated, with emphasis, “Almost.”

Grinning, Alex’s attention was diverted when Zaylinparronedinto the common room. She didn’t often interact with anyone other than Alex—and even then, sparingly—so her arrival was a surprise. As were her words.

“Why are none of you getting ready?”

D.C. turned to Alex with astonished eyes. “She can speak our language?”

Not wanting to risk Zaylin’s ire by explaining about the aggressive moment of revelation the two had shared the previous day, Alex instead looked at the Tia Auran and asked, “Getting ready for what?”

Appearing torn between exasperation and disbelief, Zaylin said, “The memorial. Didn’t anyone tell you?”

Raised eyebrows met her in answer, and she muttered something under her breath that was too low for even Alex to hear. Then, louder, she explained, “Aes Daega may have lived in Medora for many ages, but her blood was Tia Auran, and tonight she shall be given the honour owed to her for her sacrifice.” She looked them all in the eyes before focusing on Alex as she continued, “As you delivered tidings of her passing, the empress has invited you all to attend tonight so that you may offer your own farewells, should you so wish.”

Alex swallowed and nodded, wanting that very much. While it was Niyx’s death that had truly crushed her, she was still saddened by the loss of Lady Mystique, and would appreciate being able to say a proper goodbye.

Having expected her words to launch them into motion, Zaylin snapped, “What are you all waiting for? Go!”

Not used to facing Zaylin’s prickly temper, Alex’s friends were quick to scatter, presumably to summon their helpers and follow the command to get ready.

“Follow me, mortal,” the Tia Auran said tersely when it was just Alex remaining. “We have work to do if we’re to make your appearance at all passable for tonight’s tribute.”

And so, with a longsuffering sigh, Alex trailed after Zaylin into her room, choosing to ignore the string of borderline offensive grumbles the immortal helper continued to utter under her breath.

Nineteen

Lady Mystique’s memorial took place on theshore of the metallic lake, the tribute beginning just as night fell.

For the first time since awakening in Vardaesia, Alex was dressed in something other than black or white. The same was true for all those in attendance, even if once again there was a universal theme to the colour scheme. Every single person wore splashes—if not entire outfits—of gold, making them shine right along with the unnaturally coloured water.

Alex had required Zaylin’s help to don the resplendent gown she’d been given, the dress so intricate that she would have worn it upside-down and back to front if not for the immortal’s assistance. It was a masterpiece of design, combining three different shades of gold—two for layering, one for its glittery embroidered detail—and hugging tight from her chest to hips before flaring out straight down to her ankles.

Upon first seeing it, Alex had balked at its magnificence and dreaded how it would clash with her golden skin. But her fear had been in vain, since the glow of hervaelianaonly added to the ethereal nature of the dress.

Any lingering insecurity had dissolved once Zaylin had pushed her from the room, because as Alex had walked out onto the shared balcony to join her waiting friends, she’d had to cover a smile at Kaiden’s stunned expression. He, too, had dressed for the occasion, his pitch-black formal ensemblemaking him appear like an otherworldly prince come to life, especially coupled with the golden swirls etched into his low collar and down the fastenings along his torso.

He may have been struck silent upon Alex’s entrance, but the feeling had been mutual, and it had taken the combined effort of their friends—all of whom looked just as glorious—for Alex and Kaiden to peel their eyes from each other. But, as if whoever was in charge ofparroningtheir group to and fro could read minds, Jordan, D.C., Bear and Declan had all been flash-transported away ahead of Alex and Kaiden, and the instant the two were alone, he had pulled her into his arms, his searing kiss telling herexactlywhat he thought about her dress. Or rather, just simply abouther.

“You’re perfect,” he’d whispered against her lips, before kissing her quickly again and pulling back just as they wereparronedto join their friends.

Alex’s breath had been stolen from her, both from the mind-numbing kiss atop the romantic balcony overlooking the city at night, and also from Kaiden’s profound compliment. But more, it had been the way he’d looked at her—like she was the most precious thing he’d ever laid eyes on. And it was because of the last that when they’d arrived next to their friends at the edge of the golden lake, Alex’s knees had been weak enough that she’d only remained upright because Kaiden had slid his arm around her to steady her.

When he’d glanced down to check if she was okay, all she’d been able to do was reach up and trail a finger along his jaw, looking deep into his bright blue eyes as she’d whispered, “You are, too.” Then it was she who had kissed him, a soft press of her lips to his before pulling away again, only to see his eyes had brightened even more.

Despite its brevity, her affectionate moment had still been met with coughs and grins from their delighted friends.But fortunately, before any of them had a chance to offer commentary, Calivere had appeared at their sides, directing them to follow.

Which led them to now, with Alex trailing after the immortal advisor, her friends marvelling over the colour of the lake and the glimmering sand while she eyed the growing assembly of Tia Aurans. Each was dressed in their own gold-touched finery, the mood almost offensively upbeat given the reason for their meeting. Instead of being solemn and sombre, they were talking and laughing boisterously amongst themselves, handing around food and drinks as if it were one massive lake party.

It was only after Calivere delivered them to where Saefii and Tayros were gathered down near the water’s edge—with Zaylin and the other helpers standing close by, waiting to be called upon—that Alex learned why no one was particularly sorrowful. And that was because, after Alex tugged on Zaylin’s golden robe for attention, she was tersely told that the memorial wasn’t a tribute for Lady Mystique’s death, it was a celebration of her life.

“So itisa party?” Alex asked, glancing around as music began to thrum quietly from an unknown source.

“It will be, afterwards,” Zaylin said.

“After what?” D.C. asked, standing by Alex’s elbow, her own golden dress sparkling like glitter under the moonlight.

“After we’ve released her into the care of the stars.”