Daughter of a Witch

Y/n's Trial

Y/n sat beside Alice, staring at the flames that flickered and leaped as if performing a private dance. The fire's warmth couldn't chase away the chill creeping into her chest, though, as the weight of everything that had happened pressed heavily on her. She was relieved her mothers were finally on good terms again, but an unsettling feeling lingered. Each trial brought them closer to something Y/n didn't want to face. She could feel it in her bones: her trial was coming. And she dreaded what it might demand of her.

"Y/n? Are you in there?" Alice's voice broke through her haze, grounding her.

Y/n blinked, turning to find Alice's concerned eyes searching her face. She glanced around, realizing Jen was putting out the fire while her mothers whispered softly, watching her closely. Shaking her head to clear the fog, Y/n stood, taking Alice's offered hand. Together, the group started walking again, their steps cautious as they scanned the darkness for any sign of the Salem Seven.

Teen's voice filled the silence, chattering excitedly about the trials they'd already faced and theorizing about what might come next. His enthusiasm grated against Y/n's growing headache. She usually appreciated his optimism, but tonight, with her nerves frayed and her heart heavy, his endless talking only made her feel worse.

"You know," Teen said, his voice bright, "I'm starting to think these trials are just a giant escape room, but, like, with way more emotional trauma. Thoughts?"

Rio snorted, not missing a beat. "Well, if that's the case, you're definitely the one getting locked in first."

Teen gasped in mock offense. "Excuse you, I'm a valuable asset to this coven. You'd miss my delightful commentary."

Agatha smirked. "Delightful isn't the word I'd use, pet."

"Rude," Teen muttered, pretending to sulk, but his grin betrayed him. "Anyway, if I were to get locked in, at least I'd be entertaining. Admit it, you'd be bored without me."

"We'd manage," Rio replied dryly, earning a chuckle from Agatha.

"Teen," Alice interjected with a small smile, "maybe tone it down a notch? I think we all need a little quiet right now."

Teen raised his hands in mock surrender. "Fine, fine. I'll just save my brilliant ideas for later."

Alice's gaze flicked to Y/n, noticing the tension in her shoulders and the pallor creeping into her face. Without a word, she squeezed Y/n's hand and pulled her closer. Y/n gave her a weak smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. Alice's worry deepened, but she didn't press, knowing Y/n would talk when she was ready.

The group's steps slowed as they approached a small cabin. It looked almost identical to the one from Agatha's trial, but this one was different. Vibrant flowers surrounded it, their colors glowing softly in the dim light. A well-tended path led to the porch, and everything about the cabin exuded warmth and familiarity.

Y/n froze, her breath catching in her throat. Tears welled in her eyes as recognition set in.

"Y/n?" Agatha's voice was soft as she stepped closer, her face etched with concern.

"I... I can't go in there, Mommy. I can't do it. Not again," Y/n whispered, shaking her head as tears spilled down her cheeks.

Agatha cupped Y/n's face gently, brushing away the tears with her thumbs. "Sweet girl, we don't know what will happen in there. It could be nothing like what you're thinking. It might not even be your trial."

Y/n shook her head harder. "No. It is mine. I can feel it."

Alice stepped behind her, rubbing soothing circles on her back. "We're with you. You don't have to face this alone," she murmured, her voice steady.