New Beginnings

-Tris-

Tris wrapped her shawl tighter around herself as she ascended the steps to Lightsbridge. If this was an act of defiance or fear, she wasn't certain. Cynicism broke through her eyes, making them steely, and yet earnestness and anticipation completed the woman's picture of diversity. Her breezes whipped through her braids, and the men in flamboyant robes stopped in their jaunty tracks. Feebly, Tris blamed it on a passing wind and inwardly cursed herself, looking up to the clouds. She had spoken with Niko the night before, trying to remember everything she saw while listening to his concern-laced words. "Trisana," he had said softly, "keep your weathers strong, no matter how much that oppressive place tries to extinguish them." His heavy, long-lashed eyes seemed to know everything, but still she could relate, she knew them as her teacher's. "I will, Niko," she'd answered, stroking Little Bear's fur. "I always will."

Someone pushed past Tris, and she drew back indignantly. Opening her mouth to snap, she took a breath, and stopped herself. I shall have to hide, she thought, and push away my essence. Refuse what I am. She was swallowed by the white building as she walked, her shawl trailing behind her. All she could see was competition and emptiness, all she could hear was spiraling arguments. Trying to mute the sounds, she entered a chamber where a young man sat, regally clearing his throat. "Trisana?" he called. "You have only academic powers?"

"For now," she replied.