Athena crossed her arms and shook her head. "No. I'm not going. Not tonight."
Sarah tilted her head, eyes wide with feigned innocence. "Why not? Didn't the Elders specifically say you must learn about our ways? How else will you be, if you stay locked in here like some frightened bird?"
Athena froze.
Her eyes flicked to Gina, who immediately shook her head in warning but the reminder dug into her chest like a thorn.
The Elders.
Their orders.
If she refused to "learn their ways," it could cause trouble.
Athena groaned, dragging her hands over her face. "Ugh… damn it! Fine, I'll go."
Sarah's squeal of excitement filled the room as she clapped her hands. "I knew you'd come around! Tonight is going to be perfect…"
"If Athena is going," Gina cut in firmly, "then I'm going too."
Sarah's smile faltered for just a second, a crack in her perfect facade. "That's not really necessary, dear."
