Alethea

I squeeze my eyes shut, I refuse to let the tears fall.

I don't want them to see me cry.

They've taken everything from me-but they won't take my dignity.

If burning on this stake is the price I have to pay for freedom, so be it.

Let it burn. I'd rather be ashes than a prisoner.

I keep my eyes closed. I don't want to see the crowd that's gathered, not the cruel eyes waiting to watch me suffer.

But deep inside me, I know something has to change.

Suddenly, I hear a shout.

"Get her down!"

A voice from the crowd.

Smoke fills my lungs.

It chokes...