The medics take Beck out of her grip as soon as they return. He's placed on a stretcher and wheeled away, while two help Tron follow. Paige stops to watch them go.
We did it….
But what now?
She doesn't know what waits in store for them...only time will tell.
Two days later, everyone is called to the center of the square. Tron waits for them all with arms clasped behind him. Beck is beside him, bruises still fading.
Mara has stepped down from her position, and Paige followed suit, hoping to disappear back into the crowd. She doesn't know how conscious Beck was of his surroundings, but maybe she can get out before he realizes…
By the way Mara is gripping her wrist, she doesn't think it's likely.
"Though we have won this battle for Argon." Tron calls. "The war still waits ahead. And before we continue to a victory, things have to be addressed."
He turns, to where is Beck is staring, and now both stare at Paige. Mara steps in front of her.
"Paige." Beck says finally. "I know you're there."
The crowd turns, and Paige tries to avoid them all. However, with each passing second exposing her more and more, she takes a deep breath, and comes out from behind Mara.
"Come up here." Tron commands. Paige glances around once more, before obeying. The crowd parts for her and slowly she climbs onto the raised stage. She bows her head as Tron grunts.
"Beck's told me about you." She doesn't dare look up at that. "A foreigner who almost failed out, got herself into fights, and then was the spy we were warned of. We all know the laws that have been put in place."
Paige clenches her shaking fists, and nods after a moment. "I-I understand."
Tron sets a hand on her shoulder and she stiffens.
"And yet…" He says finally. "You came back anyways. Despite what it meant, you returned to help us when we most needed it. Look up to me."
She obeys, and he turns her to the crowd. "She will receive full pardon of past actions in honor of her bravery and valor!"
She can hear Mara's gasp and Paige's own hand goes to cover her mouth as tears finally fall. She feels the hand on her other shoulder, and turns to see Beck smiling at her, before his hand slips down and takes her hand and squeezes it. She looks to it as Beck speaks.
"I also offer to her a spot as one of two commanders, alongside our current: Mara. That is_" He looks to her. "If she accepts."
Paige's eye widens, searching him to find sincerity. Finally, she relaxes, squeezes his hand, and says: "I would be honored."
Mara screams and the crowd soon joins her in a victory cry. Paige can't stop herself from grinning, and she and Beck meet gaze again, before she looks up to the sky above.
War is still coming. There is no doubt about it. One last hurdle before victory.
But it'll be worth it, to spend my days with Beck, to remain with Zed and Mara, to watch this city grow.
To finally be home.
END