I wiped my mouth. "Not bad, old man. But the blood mixed in makes it a little fishy."
"Have a taste yourself. Pay attention next time you make it."
That was what finally shattered Matron Thornwell's composure.
The tears she had held back for so long broke free all at once.
"Lynara, there won't be a next time. Your master is dead!"
Oh, right. There wouldn't be a next time.
Fine. Since Master couldn't look after me anymore, it was my turn to protect him for once.
I unfastened the cloak Master had sewn for me with his own hands and draped it over his body. My voice was calm. "Matron, watch over Master. Don't bury him."
"He'd be too lonely by himself. I'll find him some company for the grave."
Matron Thornwell couldn't stop me. All she could do was weep and beg me to come back alive.
I carried my short sword and walked to the Nine Heavens.
The Jade Stairway crumbled to dust behind me, and the whole celestial realm shook to its foundations.
Celestial soldiers rushed forward, blocking me outside the Celestial Gate.
The one leading them was none other than my senior brother from the Dawnveil Sect, Master's proudest disciple: Edwin Ellison.