Chapter 13

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My bare body trembled under the eyes of humanity. Shock overcame my soul, shaking the bones that ran through my limbs. Painful chrome shackles latched tightly to my wrists, pulling my arms to the ground. A loud voice boomed, as though it was everywhere at once. This human woman is charged with murder of an Arethian Overlord, battery of General Xavier, and interference with the General's duties against the Rebels. She is also charged with rebellion, and is sentenced to public execution. Holly Connerson, age 22 years. May mercy fall on your soul. I gasped, my voice squeaking with horror. A small scream cried out from the crowd of millions. "Big sister! No! No, run, sister! Run!" Yuumi... "Holly! No, please no!" Andrew... Their faces visible through the crowd, tear streaked and dirt painted. The last glimpse of my family I would ever get. On my left, I heard booming screeches of protest. I turned, catching the emerald orbs I had longed for. "Damien..." I breathed, hot tears rolling down my cheeks. Kieran and Xavier came to my side, lifting my body up an leaning me forward. I kept my eyes locked with Damien's. "I love you...." I mouthed, as Xavier drew a blade from his side. Kieran took it, and my eyes widened with shock. Upon his cheek, curving his jawline, was a white crescent moon. I trembled, but snatched my eyes from his, looking a Damien one last time. Tears painted his cheeks, his body shaking. The crowd screamed in protests, horror, and bitter wails. My last sight, my last breath, my last moment, all flooded to me as Kieran raised the blade. In one swift move, he brought it down, and my world went black.