The car rolled to a smooth stop in front of the great hall, its polished frame reflecting the light of dozens of hanging lanterns. The sight alone was enough to stir something sharp in my chest—memories, bitter and unshakable.
Six years ago, I had stood on these same grounds, younger, naive, and foolishly trusting, foolishing believing that my power was enough to keep me safe.
Six years ago, I had been lured away from this very hall by the triplets–Adam being the chief of the madness, and almost killed.
Tonight, I was back, but not as the same girl. Tonight, I was Sage, champion of the day's bloody race, dressed in silk, in magic, in defiance. And not foolish, or naive enough to believe revenge wasn't necessary; that peace was better.
Maybe it was. I mused. But there was no peace without war. And that's what I was here for, playing my role in a bigger equation; bringing down the pack for the greater good of the surrounding communities.
