(IZARA POV) Days passed, and finally, there was only one more day until my grant ceremony. Valeria was as crowded as ever, with people from around the world arriving in waves. Media from across the seas were also granted access to broadcast what everyone was calling “the event of the century.” Trade was flourishing and prospering, especially since I had decided to open up our ceremony to the world. Everything was going great as planned. “He’s coming today, right?” Veronica asked, and I nodded excitedly. Alan had formally informed me of the guest’s arrival time, but I was already well aware of Archer’s schedule. Why? Because we’re now email buddies. We message every time we get. “Let’s wear this!” Veronica was just as excited to show me off, even though I would be wearing a mask to

