Witness

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"Child. Did anyone see you leave?"

As soon as third eating had finished, Win had slipped away from Tessa, making sure to stay away from torches so she wouldn't be seen.

"No, Mother."

"Let us hope." The hooded head moved in something like a nod.

"I have brought you here to discuss your future." Her voice was cold. "The secrecy was intended to keep any and all from overhearing our words, as they are of the utmost importance. The darkness is omnipresent, as ever, as it should be, and will know if you speak the truth.

"What do you know of what is to come?"

Win thought, running through everything Tessa had said, or hinted at. It didn't take long.

Win swallowed, trying to speak normally. "I know I'll be given a task. But I don't know what that will be."

Mother was silent for a moment.

"I'm sure," she said at last, "That you understand the basic differences between male and female. I am equally sure that you have an awareness of the imbalance in our population as far as the two go. There is a reason for that, as there is for everything. Father hears the Darkness, and must obey. Your task will come soon enough, and you will know then what it is."

Win didn't know what to say. Nothing Tessa had ever said about her task sounded.... Like that.

"First. However, you must witness to us, that you are willing. You will be brought to the chamber of the mothers, and prove your willingness. After that you will receive your torch."

Win just stood, contemplating this unexpected solemnity.

"Do you understand, child?"

"Yes, Mother."

"And you consider yourself ready?"

Tessa had done it. And like she had said, they would be separated if she failed at this.

"Yes. I'm ready."

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