MIRA
I sat in front of my vanity mirror, slowly brushing my hair.
Each stroke was calm… slow… controlled.
Just like me. I had to stay in control. I couldn’t let this place break me. Not when I was this close.
My reflection stared back at me, beautiful, cold, determined.
I wasn’t born to serve. I was born to rule.
And soon… I would.
There was a soft knock at the door. I didn’t need to ask who it was.
“Come in,” I said.
Eric stepped inside and shut the door quietly behind him. His face was tight. I didn’t like that look.
I put my brush down and turned to face him.
“Well?” I asked.
He stayed quiet for a moment, then bowed his head.
“They failed.” The words hit me like a slap.
“What?” I whispered.
He sighed, stepping closer.
“The ambush… the one we set at Shadowcrest’s entrance
