Page 43 of Rite of Unity

I stood, shuffling to the door and pushing it open a crack.

Paul stood on the other side, Vera wedged beside him, a massive trunk at her feet.He pulled the door wide, looking me up and down.

I groaned, backing up.

“Don’t give me that attitude, Twelve.It’s Tuesday.You had all weekend to rest.That’s more than any of us working-class shmos get.”

“Why are you here?I don’t have my next trial instructions yet.”

Vera shouldered past Paul, dragging the trunk inside.She glared up at me, inhaling deeply.“Why don’t they have elevators in the Middle?I hate your life.”

My lips tipped up.

“Check your tablet, Duchess.Your trial came through half an hour ago.We have to be there by two.”

I blinked.“Today?”

Paul looked at Vera.“You were wrong.There is a brain in there.”

Vera rolled her eyes, and the trunk slammed onto its side.“I don’t have time for either of your shit.Maryn, get naked.”

My gaze darted to Paul.

“I’m going.I’m going.”

He marched through the small space and into my room.

The door slid shut, and I spun around.“I can get dressed in my room.”

“No time.And your outfit won’t fit.”

My mouth dropped open, and she unrolled layers of creamy tule.

“What the fuck is that?”

Vera grinned.“I’m rubbing off on you.”

“Maryn.”

I spun around, remembering for the first time since Paul and Vera barged in that she was still there.“Sorry, Mama.”

“Hurry up.I have two hours to get you ready.”

I stared at the pile of fabric.“Don’t you have anything… less?”

She stood, yanking the gown with her.“This is your Lineage Trial.You’re going on stage and reminding the world that you’re from the Middle.You need to look like you don’t belong there.”

I swallowed and fumbled with my first button.

***

I stared out the car window.

A woman was on her knees on the pavement, hands bound behind her back.A Covenant security guard, dressed all in black, stood over her, one boot pressed to her calf.Red matted the side of her head and she stared up at him in defiance, but she wasn't fighting anymore.A drone circled low overhead, recording.

My stomach turned over and I pressed my hand to the glass.

The car didn't slow.