TWO MONTHS LATER

"I now bestow upon you, Carswell Thorne, and you, Crescent Moon Darnel, the Sacred Sun Award of Integrity," Emperor Kaito announced to the gathered guests and to our two sexy heroes. "You have done great work in your missions, but this last mission in particular clearly shows your integrity and courage and devotion to the unification of the Earthen Union and Luna."

"Let us raise a toast to the honorees and two of our closest friends." Linh Cinder held up her glass and the guests followed suit.

"To the honorees!"

"Thank you all for joining us for this honorable occasion. We hope to see you all during the festival next week!" Kai beamed at his people from the podium and shook Thorne's hand and then Cress's hand.

Thorne hugged Cress tightly and then immediately turned to high five Cinder. What a dork. Cinder happily high fived him back. What two dorks, I should say. Laughter burst from the guests as the four exited off the platform and into the adjacent hallway.

Cinder let out a sigh of relief as she took off her crown, her necklace, and her skirt. "Thank goodness that's over, I feel 50 kilograms lighter." As she stepped out of her skirt, Thorne noticed she was wearing her favorite cargo pants. I guess old habits do die hard.

"What is 50 kilograms in American?" Thorne asked.

Cinder laughed at Cress's reaction to his question, like Thorne's life suddenly made no sense to her. "Like 110 pounds or something. Cress, can you come with me, I need your opinion on something."

"Sure, Cinder." She pecked Thorne on the cheek and followed Cinder down the halls.