The Blinding

Chapter 46 - Tissa

The others' arrival was unexpected. With my recent transformation, the sudden need to connect felt overwhelming. I couldn't help but wonder about their first impressions of me. Hibo had tried, but the way she acknowledged my new identity unsettled me. Sure, I had powers, but what good were they if I felt so lost in controlling them? The electric buzz that had started in my veins that afternoon persisted, feeling as though it yearned to escape my skin. Yet, how could I let it out, when I barely understood it? Still, the Council's interest in me was undeniable.
The very idea of the Council hadn't genuinely occurred to me before. After Samakaab's introduction to them, I hadn't considered joining. But Elmi's revelation from earlier and the weight of Samakaab's words put me at a crossroads. My mother had been a pillar of the Bulhar Council. If they were still around, I knew they'd be fighting against the palace, resisting the suppression of Magicians like us. I felt a purpose for my powers, perhaps to lead Macrobia to genuine peace. I resolved then: I'd walk the path my parents had tread and stand with the Council.
I approached Hani, who seemed lost in thought. "Have you decided about tonight?" Her expression was unreadable, keeping me in suspense.
She took a moment, then admitted, "Coming here with you, I didn't anticipate this," indicating the growing crowd around us.
"You could always go back to Sarapion," I offered, hoping to ease her conflict.
She laughed, though without much humor. "Return to a near-empty motel? That's no life."
I deeply felt her sentiments. How I missed the simpler days with Iftin, Loyaan, and even Batuulo's nurturing nagging. But, like Hani, I knew there was no true returning.
"So you're staying? To fight?"
She sighed, "Seems like there's really no other choice, right?" Pausing, she continued, "What about you? Has Elmi given you the answers you sought?"
I nodded thoughtfully. "My family's legacy with the Council is clear. The path was set before I even knew it. Still, even without that history, I feel drawn to stay. My powers, raw as they are, might be crucial. And, aren't you a tad curious about Samakaab's impending speech?"
We shared a light-hearted moment, chuckling at the evident uncertainty of the situation, which caught Idil's attention.
Joining our conversation with a playful smirk, she asked, "What's the secret, you two?"
"Where are Beydan and her children?" I inquired, concerned.
"They left. They've suffered enough. Once things settle, they'll head to Sarapion," Idil explained, her tone more somber.
Realizing the implication of her staying, I urged, "Idil, they need you."
She raised her hand, signaling me to pause. "My choice might bring danger, true. But remember, Tissa, danger and I are old acquaintances."
I persisted, "But Beydan and the kids..."
She looked at me with steely determination, "They're safe, and I need to stand with my people, just like everyone else here. You aren't the only one gifted with power, young one."
I swallowed hard, wanting to argue, to persuade her to seek safety. But her decision was clear. Silently, I respected her choice, but the fear for her well-being, given her age, haunted me.