The Choice
Eirika slapped Tana's face before she could explain herself.
"Eirika wait! You don't understand!" Tana chased Eirika out of her room.
Tana grabbed Eirika and whipped around to face her.
"I understand perfectly Tana. I know a whore when I see one. You have tainted yourself and Ephraim's marriage. You disgust me!"
Tana could feel tears welling. "You don't mean that, Eirika." The sadness in her voice choked her words.
Eirika already regretted her harsh words, but she was so angry at what happened.
"I have no choice but to tell everyone unless you do it right now."
Tana panicked. "You can't be serious."
Eirika screamed her loudest.
Tana closed her mouth with her hand. "Please give me time! As your friend, please just give me time."
Syrene and Gilliam came out of their room. Vanessa and Forde also joined the crowd. Innes, L'Arachel, and Ephraim showed up.
"What's going on Eirika?" Ephraim asked worried. He gave Tana a worrying look.
Tana was already tearing up.
Eirika glared at Tana.
Tana shook her head and gave a pleading look.
"Tana has committed one of the most vile sins a young women can make. She has been with a married man."
L'Arachel gave a disgusted gasp.
Innes boiled with anger. "Stay your tongue Eirika! Don't you point such ridiculous accusations at my sister!"
Ephraim sighed. He knew it was over.
Tana nodded her head. "It's true brother. I'm sorry."
Innes slapped her face. "You have shamed this family for the last time sister. Get back to your room. I don't want to see your adulterous face until we have figured out this mess.
Syrene helped Tana back up.
"Pardon me King Innes, but don't you think you are being too hard on her?"
"Know your place Syrene. Sorry Forde, but Vanessa will stay with Tana tonight."
Tana looked at Ephraim expecting him to confess. To stand by her like they had promised. Ephraim said nothing as Vanessa took her away.
After all the embarrassment and abuse, the betrayal of Ephraim hurt the most. What started as a wonderful night became a terrible and lonely one as Tana cried herself to sleep.
Eirika looked at Ephraim with scorn. She hated herself for what she had done, but hated Ephraim more for not proving himself.
The choice had been made. It will surely cause regret.