Page 31 of The NemeSis
I didn’t know what to expect when he asked if I was up for an adventure. This isn’t even something that crossed my mind. I feel like I’ve been spun in circles and left disoriented.
This whole evening feels surreal, like I’ve slipped into a dream I can’t quite grasp. My fingers twist and fidget with the ruffles of my dress. As if the fabric can ground me. Even standing still, it’s as if the world is shifting beneath my feet.
“Alright, princess.” Ares’ voice slips through the dark. “Focus on my voice amongst the others.”
I roll my eyes at the nickname, but before I can respond, chaos erupts.
“Walk straight.”
“Turn around.”
“Run.”
“Take a step back.”
The voices talk all at once, overlapping and contradicting. Giving orders and directions. My breath catches and my heart rate picks up even more and I hesitate.
The directions continue, repeatedly. Then I hear his voice to turn and walk. It sounds like I’m surrounded and I’m terrified. What if I bump into someone? What if I get stuck?
And yet, it’s equally thrilling—the unknown.
I’ve had my life laid out for me since I was a little girl. My life was mapped out for me for as long as I could remember. Being part of the society, I fit right in. Not only that, but I loved it. It came easy. My teen years laid out my career path. My whole life, up until now, has felt effortless. It’s easy to smile and play the part when you enjoy it.
Then something happened in the last year, I realized I wanted more excitement. I needed a little mystery. I know I don’t need to be part of The Orphic Order.
I want it.
I want the connections it allows without having to use my family name, even if a connection to an existing member is what gives me this chance in the first place. I want to prove I belong here. Sure, things have been handed to me, but I still want to work hard.
“Turn to your right and keep walking.” I hear Ares’ voice amongst the continued chaos.
It’s possible Ares is the reason I’m a prospective member, or maybe it’s chance.
The voices continue, but I remain calm and focus. The voices continue all around me and I can’t tell if the people surround me or it’s an illusion with speakers.
“Freeze.”
“Turn around. Wrong way.”
“Keep going.”
The voices continue.
“Go left.” It’s Ares.
The voices continue to call out instructions, but they sound more distant. I’m zoned into Ares. I walk softer now, more confident with each step. My heels press into the grass I hadn’t noticed until now.
“Get ready,” he says suddenly. “Don’t scream.”
I keep moving, but brace myself. I don’t know what’s about to happen, but I assume I’m not meant to react.
It happens in a split second, my feet are off the ground and my world tipped over. The blood rushes to my head. Yet, as quick as it happened, I’m right back up to standing. I keep my arms down, but spread my fingers and slightly bend my knees. It keeps me steady.
Blinding light has me squinting my eyes when I notice the blindfold is off. My fingers move to my face, the mask is still in place. Ares stands in front of me with a smirk on his face.
“Good job, princess.” He passes me a champagne flute.
I smile and take it, but don’t drink. Not yet. I may trust him, but tonight, trust isn’t earned with words. It’s tested.
