For a moment, the cavern was completely silent.
Then Seraya screamed.
It wasn't a word. It was a raw, broken sound that tore out of her throat and echoed against the pale stone walls. She pulled Neris out of Simon's arms and held her against her chest, rocking back and forth as though she could shake her awake.
"Neris. Neris, open your eyes. Open your eyes!"
Neris didn't move.
Her head rested against Seraya's shoulder, exactly the way it had rested against Tavian's chest a moment ago. Her face was peaceful, and there was still a faint smile on her lips.
Seraya pressed her forehead against her sister's.
"You idiot," she sobbed. "You stupid, annoying little… you were supposed to outlive me. You promised. You always said you'd outlive me just to annoy me…"
Her shoulders shook violently.
Beside her, Darik stared at Neris's face. His lips moved, but no words came out. His bloodied hands trembled in his lap.
Simon didn't move.
