vi
The fields seems to brighten around him, even though it is night: the moonlight is stronger, the grass and flowers more vibrant, the breeze sweeter. And the Shield of Safrin kneels before him, even as - nearly a lifetime away, one might think - the ground roars and splits and belches fire. She answers, affirmative, and unlike last time there’s not a whisper of hesitation. He has watched her grow even in the last season, weathered by time and by tragedy.”Then stand, Amalia. If you would preserve and protect - if you would walk that finest of lines - then it is time you embraced it. If you are truly ready, take my hand. The world will not wait much longer.” He reaches out for her, palm outstretched, the cosmos around him growing deep and infinitely dark.
