Hera sat across from Magnus Vaelor, who had been unconscious for most of the night.
When morning arrived, he finally woke up.
Now, he watched her with interest, as if studying a piece of art.
"You know, my punishment was supposed to help you understand. The Outer Ring was a punishment, but I also believed it was a place you could succeed. Consider me disappointed, Hera."
So, he does recognize me, she thought, her spine tingling with fear.
"You won't say a word to them about me," she growled. "And I have succeeded here. In a matter of days, I've found more respect here than I ever received from you. This place is broken, and you helped me understand that it's our fault these people are so violent."
Magnus shrugged, his eyes closing slightly with exhaustion. "At least you gained perspective. That was all I ever wanted. Besides, without your staff, you were useless to me."
"I'm not so useless anymore."
