"It is by far one of the most successful debuts I've ever been to."

"You've been to a lot?" I blink.

She nods.

"Hundreds. But that is to be expected at my age."

She doesn't offer a number, but the implication is enough to note she's old—very old.

"This is my first one. I've only been in Aperion for a short time."

"You are human, no?" She tilts her head to the side.

"Does that bother you?"

"No, of course not. I am not a snob. I have nothing against humans or any other mortal species. We have created them, have we not? Why should we look down on our creations?"

"I've heard that not many share your view."

"They are snobs," she scoffs. "And far too arrogant for their own good. We might be eternal, but we are not invulnerable. That is something that too many of my kind tend to forget."

"I'm Luce," I offer, extending my hand.

A smile curves on her lips.

"Anami. Pleased to meet you."

"What House are you from?" I ask out of curiosity.

"House of Psyche," she answers.

"Oh, do you oversee souls after they die?"

"Some do. Not me," she replies succinctly.

It's on the tip of my tongue to question her more. Nikki is still around in his soul form, and since I quit the Game, I'm anxious to know what more I can do to get to him. The letter mentioned that he is not with the House of Psyche, but that doesn't mean they wouldn't have more information—they are the soul guardians, after all.

"Oh," I murmur.

"Someone you knew died recently," she states. It's not a question. It's an observation.

I nod.

"Your...husband," she continues.

"Yes."

A sad smile tips her lips.

"My husband died, too. Many, many years ago."

"Can't you get him back? Since you're from the House of Psyche..."

"It does not work like that, unfortunately. There are two ways in which a god can die. One is due to an injury. When that happens, their soul can be salvaged. But if they die through the second way, it is permanent. My husband died through the second way."

"What is that?"

"Execution," she deadpans, her eyes meeting mine.

I freeze, and my intuition gives me a kick in the gut.

"Once a god is executed, their soul is obliterated. And that is because the sword used to execute them, The Infallible, is the only weapon in existence that can kill a god."

The expression on her face changes. No longer does she sport a kind and inviting smile; now there's only resentment.

"I should go," I murmur as I back away.

She's faster. Her fingers curl around my arm as she pulls me to her.

"Are you not curious who I am talking about, little human?"

"I know who you're talking about," I whisper.

"You know who he is—what he is—and you're still by his side?" She snarls.