Chapter 1662

The figure approached until it stood at the edge of the spiral. It didn't speak, but it didn't need to.

They felt her.

Alara.

But not as before.

She was less flesh now. More essence. The island made manifest.

"You are ready," she said, her voice like wind through golden leaves.

Jude stepped forward. "For what?"

Her eyes sparkled. "To meet the others."

Silence.

Then Lucy's voice, soft. "Others?"

Alara nodded.

"There are more like you," she said. "Not here. Not yet. But waiting. Waking. Drawn by your light. Some will come. Some will call. Some will be born."

Emma frowned. "Are we supposed to leave?"

"No," Alara said. "This is your root. Your home. But your light will travel."

Rose stepped forward. "And what are we supposed to do?"

"Live," Alara said. "And keep the spiral turning."

She began to fade.

"Wait," Jude said, reaching toward her. "Will we ever see you again?"