Aurora's End (The Aurora Cycle #3)(127)

“Finian suggested as he departed,” says Zila, “that I should place wagers on the outcomes of ‘sportsball’ events, with Magellan’s assistance. I remain unconvinced this is entirely ethical, but Nari has suggested to me that we have given much, and it is acceptable to take a little in return. Details of a bank account have been provided with these files. I have two requests, and beyond that, the money is yours to use as you see fit—it will be a considerable sum.

“My first request is that you establish a scholarship in Cat’s name. I believe in the Aurora Legion, and I would like it to be easier for others to join.

“My second request is that you find an opportunity to spend some time together—I would suggest you put Scarlett in charge of planning, as Nari and I are both confident she will pick an excellent destination for a furlough. And please think of us for a moment when you make that trip.”

Everyone’s crying now, except for Saedii, of course, who definitely has no tear ducts. She’s just nodding slowly, which I guess is her version.

“I have found my family here,” Zila says, “though I will always miss the family I left behind. I hope each of you finds such happiness, over the course of your lives.” She looks around, as if she could actually see us. And she smiles. “I wish you well, my friends.”

And just like that, the recording is over, and Zila’s gone.

But never forgotten.

“Holy cake,” Aurora sniffs, disentangling herself from Jie-Lin’s hug.

“This,” says Scarlett, “is going to be the most epic vacation in history.”

“We just got back from vacation,” I groan.

“And there’s no way I can take time off,” Tyler says.

Scarlett puts her hands on her hips. “Are you being serious right now?”

“I mean it,” Ty says, shaking his head. “There’s a whole bunch of diplomatic meetings scheduled after the unveiling, we’ve got new intakes coming in after that, and de Stoy’s rearranging the whole command structure.”

“Right,” I nod. “And we’re still short in mechaneering, I’ve gotta hel—”

“Oh Maker’s breath …” Scar heaves a dramatic sigh, looking between me and Ty. “Could you two be bigger killjoys, please.”

I shrug, helpless. “I’ve got work to do, Scar.”

“Look,” she says, leaning closer. “A vacation I organize means a pool. And a pool means me packing nothing but a swimsuit. Do the math, de Seel.”

I pause, glance to Tyler. “Yeah, okay, I’m convinced.”

“Right,” Scar scowls. “What about you, Bee-bro?”

“You know I hate it when you call me that, right?”

“You know I hate your face, right?”

“Ouch.”

Tyler glances at Saedii thoughtfully.

“Do you even own a swimsuit?”

She glowers around the room. “I am certain I could fashion one out of someone’s skin without too much difficulty.”

“Leather bikini … ,” I murmur, staring into the distance.

“… Yeah, okay,” Tyler declares. “I’m convinced.”

“Are they always like this?” Jie-Lin asks quietly.

“In time, one becomes accustomed to it,” Kal replies gravely.

Aurora just hugs her one more time, and smiles.

“Welcome to the family.”