Chapter 1621

A low hum rolled through the chamber, vibrating through their bones. The light above twisted, revealing a swirling vortex of starlight that bloomed like a flower overhead. Within it, glimpses - fractured and incomplete - flashed like dreams. Cities made of crystal. Oceans that floated in the sky. Beings without faces, glowing with pure intent. And trees. Trees everywhere. Each one massive, unique, pulsing with different lights and lives.

Jude rose to his feet slowly, and as he did, the platform reshaped beneath him - rising into a smooth slope that led upward toward the light. The others followed instinctively, gathering around him as the tree gently ushered them forward.

Rose stood at his right. Lucy at his left. Behind them, the others formed a perfect circle, naked and radiant, their bodies smeared with golden dust, their expressions full of reverence. Together, they ascended the slope until they stood beneath the vortex.

And then it opened.