THE FINALE
385 Words
Pierce stepped out slowly, his polished shoes sinking into the dirt. He didn’t need an army. His confidence was his weapon.
He approached the group as if he owned the land already.
“Miss Eminia,” he said, voice smooth and cold. “You were warned.”
Eminia stepped forward before Rowan could stop her.
“You sent people to attack my home,” she said, voice trembling—but strong. “You tried to burn everything my parents built.”
Pierce smirked.
“The world is built on opportunity and power. You have neither.”
Rowan stepped beside her.
“She’s not alone.”
Pierce’s eyes flicked to Rowan with bored amusement.
“Ah, the loyal servant. You know, Rowan… this would be easier if you accepted the offer I gave you years ago.”
Rowan’s jaw clenched, but he didn’t respond.
Pierce continued, “You have two choices, Eminia. Sell the farm today, or I will ensure that your life here becomes… unlivable.”
Eminia lifted the documents she had spent days preparing.
“You underestimate me,” she said.
Pierce’s expression shifted—very slightly.
“These are official mineral rights claims. Soil reports. Geological maps. You don’t own what lies under this land. I do.”
Pierce stepped closer, his face inches from hers.
“You think paperwork will save you?” he whispered dangerously. “This valley belongs to people with power. Not little girls clinging to ghosts.”
Eminia didn’t back away.
“This land belongs to my parents. And now it belongs to me,” she said. “I’m filing everything with the district council tomorrow.”
Pierce’s eyes darkened—cold, furious.
“You’ll regret this,” he said, voice low. “You can’t win.”
Eminia’s voice didn’t shake.
“I already am.”
Pierce glared at her one last time, then turned sharply and walked back to his car.
As the vehicle disappeared into the night, Eminia let out a long breath. Rowan placed a hand on her shoulder—steady, reassuring.
The danger wasn’t over.
Pierce wouldn’t stop.
But neither would she.
For the first time since her parents’ death, Eminia felt something powerful rise in her chest:
Strength.
Purpose.
Defiance.
The fight for the farm wasn’t finished.
It was only reaching its peak.
- Writer
