Katelina followed Verchiel, though her eyes were pulled back to the gate and the high wall. She could feel the peace ebbing away with every step. Some part of her didn't want to let it go. She knew what was out there, waiting for her in the world, and didn't want to face it.

Her steps slowed, then stopped. Verchiel scooped her up again. She twisted in his arms until his violet eyes met hers. The world fell away in a moment of purple twilight, soft and sweet like summer and ...