“I was telling the truth,” Jared said, a little awkward.

“I know,” Gwendolyn replied evenly. “That’s why I said you’re interesting.”

She turned and walked deeper across the golden sea.

“If you’re awake, come over. Your remnant souls are still waiting.”

Jared’s eyes snapped open.

The first thing he saw was a wash of golden light.

He was lying on a stone bed.