So I make my bed on the floor and nest myself into the corner. I clutch my Godstone to my chest and make the choice to be at peace with myself.

The next morning we march, bathed and laundered and looking our very best, straight from the barracks and into the audience hall. My heart races, and my throat feels tight.

We are met at the door by Carilla and Valentino. Conde Valentino, I remind myself, for he has taken over rulership of Ciénega del Sur. His father still rots in the prison tower, awaiting his execution.

The double doors swing open, and we gasp. The entire court is in attendance.

Silence greets us as we enter and begin our walk down the aisle toward the throne and dais. Then the muttering starts.

They’re staring at my hair, at my dyed white streak, which is no longer white but rather bright, bright red like a ruby. For no matter what happens today, I am Red. Red Sparkle Stone, citizen of Joya d’Arena and descendant of Invierne, by birth and by choice, and my name is beautiful and perfect, as it has always been.

Elisa sits on the throne, wearing her crown of shattered Godstones, and how she manages to look as regal as ever while holding a swaddled baby is a wonder. Hector stands at her right shoulder, and when he notes my red streak, a hint of a smile quirks his lips. Rosario stands at the empress’s left shoulder, holding tight to Ximena’s hand. The little princess grins, showing off a huge gap in her teeth.

Mara and the Quorum of Five stand behind them, looking on like indulgent parents.

I yearn to run to them all, but I don’t dare. I’m just a Guard recruit.

We reach the end of our march. The audience hall rests in silence.

The empress stands. It’s like a thunderclap when, as one, every single recruit, noble, and servant drops to their knees.

Elisa hands the baby to her husband.

“Rise, Royal Guard, recruits, stewards, courtiers, and staff,” she says.

We obey.

“Traitors rose among your ranks. They threatened this empire. Took Joyan lives to further their own selfish causes. Yet you stayed true. More than that, you dedicated yourselves to exposing these traitors. You prepared yourselves beyond the scope of your expectations and training. And when my heir and our empire were at their most vulnerable, you risked life and limb to save us all. Therefore, it is my great pleasure to bestow upon each and every one of you the imperial medal of honor for acts of extreme loyalty.”

The audience cheers.

I feel a little dizzy. All my friends are being honored. All of them.

When the cheers die down, Elisa continues. “You must forgive me, for this is the largest conferring of the medal of honor in the history of Joya d’Arena. Such a pinning ceremony would last until the night. Lord-Commander Dante will dispense medals at a later time. But, for now . . .”