She nodded. “You are Death.”
“I am.”
“You are not very Death-like.”
His head tilted. “And how is one…Death-like?”
“We cannot stay much longer,” I cut in, half-afraid of whatever Ezra might say.
“Must you leave?” Ezra asked. “Mari is currently with her father, but she should be arriving soon.”
“I really would love to see her, but we cannot.” I glanced at the doors. “Where is—?” I stopped myself from asking. I didn’t need to know where my mother was. I didn’t care. “How is your Consort?”
“Perfect.” A bright smile appeared, lighting up her entire face. That was whatmorelooked like. “She is utterly perfect.”
“Good. I’m happy to hear that.”
Her eyes searched mine, and I could tell she had much she wanted to ask. Wanted to say. “I…after everything happened here, I sent a missive to the Vodina Isles to check on Sir Holland, but I have not heard anything in return.”
“Oh.” I smiled. “I believe he’s fine.”
“You do?” Her gaze sharpened.
“It’s time.” Nyktos swooped in, nipping the string of questions Ezra surely had in the bud.
It was hard, but I stood in agreement.
“Will I see you again?” Ezra asked, the same as I had asked of Holland.
I gave her a far more hopeful answer. “I believe so.”
“I hope so, too. I really do.” Her voice thickened. “I miss you.”
The breath I exhaled was ragged. “I miss you, too.” I turned, hurrying to join Nyktos at the steps as the burn in my throat increased.
“Sera?” Ezra rose, stopping me. “Remember what you said about the lands tainted by the Rot? And why couldn’t they be used to build homes for those in Croft’s Cross living in the most cramped conditions?”
My brows knitted. “Yes?”
“That’s where Mari and her father are. At the ruined lands. They’re going to build homes. Nothing extravagant, but I discovered stores of lumber—at least enough to start with,” she told me. “It was your idea. I thought you should know.”
I left the Great Hall feeling far better than when I’d arrived. My chest was looser, even though sadness lingered.
I hoped I got to see Ezra again. And Marisol.
I glanced at the silent figure beside me. Nyktos was quiet as we traveled the hall. He’d lifted his hood already, and I would, too, once we stepped outside. “I’m glad—” We rounded the bend.
And came face-to-face with…her.
My mother.
I halted.
She stopped.
Neither of us said anything as we stared at each other. Thelow growl of displeasure radiating from Nyktos caused me to realize I’d taken a step back.
“You look well,” I said, snapping out of my stupor. And she did. Her hair, only a shade or two darker than mine, was perfectly coiffed in an elaborate updo. An amber stone glittered from her neck, and the lavender gown draping her trim figure was perfect for her. There were shadows beneath her eyes, though. Perhaps a few more wrinkles than I remembered.