“What can we do?”
I am showered in affirmations as a dangerous feeling takes root in my chest—a dream. We are going to change the galaxies. “We will rise and illuminate the shadows. We will overcome the evil that has spread, poisoning our worlds and marginalizing us all. They have categorized us, creating an ‘us versus them’ mentality. They did not expect ‘us’ to unite. Today, we will!!”
“Today, we will!”
“Today, we will!”
Goosebumps prick my skin as the crowd chants and cheers. The moons have turned, and so have we.
Fifty-three
Promises were made to keep secrets, as I emphasized the importance of using discretion. If Pluto learned his subjects were turning against him… I shiver at the thought. Brinn and I plan to meet every other cycle for updates and planning. We may not be as strong as Pluto and the Kosmos, but those who desire change are the most powerful of all.
Towards the end of the second cycle, Orion changes our training style yet again. Knowing the order only offers the sponsors pieces of information regarding the upcoming challenge, I’m typically very appreciative of the lengths Orion goes to to ensure I’m as prepared as possible. This time? Not so much.
“This feels like a waste of time. I can journal in my free time. Oh, that’s right,I already do, Orion.”
I dangle off my bed with my head towards the ground. When Orion showed up this morning, telling me we weren’t going to the training grounds but staying in to “self-reflect”, I thought he was joking. Yet here I sit with a fresh journal beside me on the bed and frustration building in my veins.
Orion leans forward from the armchair he frequents to tap my nose. “I don’t want you to write about your day, Zi. Think about your strengths and weaknesses. Your deepest desires and secrets. That’s what you need to reflect on.”
“Can’t we go do something fun instead?”
“Zell, will it help if you talk it out with me?” Not a chance.
I sit up, quietly admitting, “Maybe I don’t want to examine the darkest parts of myself.”
Orion sits on the bed beside me, bumping his shoulder into mine. “There is nothing about you that could scare me. I see who you are, Zellie, and admire every part of you. You are nothing short of astonishing.”
I look at him, really look at him. His hazel eyes appear tired, but they radiate kindness and love. “I think you are the best friend I have ever had, Riri.”
Orion’s smile is sad as he creates some distance between us and stands, heading for the door. “Just work on this, okay? This is the only assignment for the entire training period.”
I think about it; I do. But nothing comes to me that day, or the next, or the next.
“Pistachio isnotmy flavor.” Lenny grimaces and thrusts his cone towards me. “Please, for the love of all things, take this from me.”
I laugh, trading my cup of butter pecan with him eagerly. “You’re just picky.”
“I have a distinguished palate. You, on the other hand, do not.”
We opted to sit on the riverbank after stopping by the Milky Whey following our training session rather than in the parks. Flarelets glow around us, quietly chirping as the water gently sways with the flowing current. We’re tucked away underneath the sparkling crystal bridge, and this hidden spot truly makes it feel like the world is the two of ours.
“I like this spot,” he adds. “Thanks for sharing it with me.”
“I only share it with my most trusted friends—don’t go telling everyone about it.”
“Things almost feel normal here.” I hum, knowing exactly what he means. “I spy Sirius.”
My grin widens until my cheeks hurt—I love playing this game with Lenny. Mostly because he always lets me win. Lenny’s brilliant. I have no shame inadmitting he’s smarter than me. I look up, spotting the brightest star. He must be going easy on me. “We should make a wish.”
“What would you wish for?”
WhatdoI wish for? “Justice. Peace.”
“Those are two things.”
“They’re one and the same!”
