The applause for Alderain was still fading when the headmaster of ceremonies returned to the podium, papers in hand, smiling the specific proud smile reserved for exactly one moment in any graduation.
"Before we begin the formal conferral," he said, "it's my privilege to introduce this year's valedictorian. Rank one of the graduating class, four years running, and I don't say that lightly. Please welcome Nyx Cross."
Polite applause rose again, warmer this time, the genuine kind reserved for a student rather than a dignitary. Vane clapped along with everyone else, and watched Nyx rise from her seat, and felt something tighten in his chest the moment he saw how she was walking.
It was too careful. Too even. The walk of someone counting their own steps to keep from thinking about anything else.
