“We did it!” Robert yelled. “We beat him!”

“Yeah,” I said, not feeling nearly so happy. “But look at what it cost us.” We all turned to find Jaime kneeling beside Alex. She had closed his eyes, and crossed his arms over his chest, a dagger in each hand.

I could hear Jaime whispering something, but I couldn’t make out the words. I think more than any of us, she had truly taken on her character. She was Tanitha Starshine. And she was, most likely giving Alex his last rites.

Suddenly, for just a moment, the room seemed to flicker. And there, standing over Alex and Jaime, was a woman so regal, so beautiful, and so obviously powerful, we all knew who it was.

“Rise, my daughter,” Cassia said, her voice gentle.

Jaime stood. “Will you grant me this, Mistress?” she asked.

“You have proven yourself just, selfless, and good. You have defeated an enemy of light. Thus, you have earned my favour. Live in peace, daughter.“

“Thank you, Pure Mother.”

Cassia traced a rune on Alex’s forehead, then faded from view.