Chapter 94: Betrayed

I snuggle the puppies as Shine licks my cheek while Shade nibbles at my hair. Both fat puppy bodies wiggle in time as they welcome me back. It's easy to sit here now, surrounded by kids who are suddenly grateful I'm with them. Even grateful for Duet, while Vander and Socrates leave to help Ande fire up the train and Chime calls out for us to board at last.

But it's Vander's voice that catches my attention as he returns to me, eyes intent and full of concern.

"There's something you need to see."

I follow him, Beckett beside me, leaving Poppy to load the puppies on board with Duet at her side, the dog refusing to leave me even for a moment. Vander stops next to the fallen body of a Bright, the girl's long hair covering what's left of her glow. She's fading, her luminescence almost gone as it trickles from her after death.