20. On Grace
On Grace
From the Private Journal of Lamari Dross, Archivist General of Krystopolis
Doctrine is said to flow where the Sovereign Flame bids it. Yet today, it turned of its own accord, simply to bear witness.
The Sokar—long relegated to whispers and shadows—entered the Pouring of Grace not as ornament, nor offering, but as celestial decree.
Conversation faltered mid-syllable. Even Zeera, the highest of the Companions, forgot to smile. Cups trembled. Postures straightened. A hush settled over the gathering—like the first shadow of the Cycle of Dark.
She did not walk. She descended—wrought of astral silk and veiled purpose.
Every eye turned. Every breath stilled. In that moment, the pageantry of Krystopolis bowed to something older. Purer. A star among reflections.
I recall nothing of the conversations that followed. Only that we—all of us—left changed.