18

The island is vast, filled with large green trees towards the island’s center and palm trees scattered throughout the beach.

“Wow, it’s so pretty. You used to live here?” Luna asks Poppy with stars in her eyes. “Yep, I did.” Poppy replies with a kind smile as she leads the way into Emerald Island.

They walk down a stoned pathway taking in the otherworldly beauty of the island. Then, small glowing lights begin flying around them, reminding Luna of the fireflies she once saw with Cinder and the rest of the pack one summer night.

“Aren’t fireflies usually hibernating this time of year?” Cinder asks as she piggybacks Luna. “Those aren’t fireflies,” Poppy giggles. Blade slightly smirks, keeping quiet.

Zadie studies the tiny creatures more focused now. A light flies in front of her stopping only a foot away from her face.