55. Henry

Henry describes Lunameade’s candlelit square and the ceremony stage built over the Blood Well. Security is present but light. Harlow, veiled, prepares to perform Stellaria’s role when Kellan arrives, freshly bathed, and announces their parents and Rafe remain at the gates due to heavy Drained activity. He assigns Harlow the family mourning speech and reminds Henry of his afterparty role.

Kellan opens the ceremony, using the square’s acoustics to address the crowd. After mourners place final letters in the pyre, he introduces Harlow as Stellaria. Harlow steps forward in a night-sky gown and publicly honors her late husband Marc, asking the Divine to deliver all departed souls, her grief sounding sincere to Henry despite the pretense.

Harlow then proclaims Stellaria’s lament, lights eight points of the pyre aligned to the city gates, and initiates a cascade of candlelight through the crowd as people share her flame. The ritual transforms the square into a web of light, and Henry is struck by her conviction and presence.

When the crowd disperses, Harlow asks how she did. Kellan suggests she should have said more, needling her confidence. Henry counters, calling her performance perfect and hugging her, which startles her.

Harlow regains composure, insists it was just a performance, and urges them on to the party at home. As she passes the blazing pyre, Henry notices the glint of unshed tears, revealing that her grief remains raw beneath the mask.