Maerilee

My pulse races as I storm out of the council meeting, the heavy doors slamming behind me. I don’t bother slowing down, my steps quick and sharp as I head toward the gardens. Stifling air presses in on me, the weight of Permiton’s words echoing in my mind. Who does he think he is anyway? Even if he is a seer, he’s new to the council. He had no right to interject his thoughts so soon.

The moment I reach the gardens, the cool air and scent of blossoms offer a brief, fragile reprieve. My spot among the flowers, where I’ve sought solace more times than I can count,...