I stand on a rolling dune of the Gray Sea, the warm grains of sand heating the tender soles of my bare feet. Wind whips my long cotton nightgown about my legs. Although I’m deep asleep, I’m awake and alert inside this dreamscape. It’s my first since the thrax autumn tournament took place one week ago.
One week ago? That disaster is as fresh as if it were yesterday.
I set my hands onto the dark ground, creating a circle of white flame. My mother’s form rises from the earth, her body made from granules of sand. The ring of fire flashes higher, then vanishes. Mom now appears in flesh and blood. She wears her purple robes and stands before the speaker podium in the Senate chamber.
“I stand before you today to address an issue that many of you will find hard to accept.” Mom clears her throat
