The Desperate Is Hard To Defeat

Madam Shanica saw it all.

Before the prestigious Terin Clan's manor had been ignited by a flame, she was there fresh from the prison cell. Traces of fingernails dug right into her calloused palms were now open again as she clenched her fists as if her life depended on it. Though Madam Shanica's almond-shaped eyes were dry, no one could deny the gleam beneath her eyes – hurt and dark nostalgia.

Madam Shanica hated flames

FLASHBACK…

Fifteen Years Ago…

Silver Tower Territory…

"Damn witch!" The bearded mage kneeling before her, bloodied and crippled, hugged his cut arms as he stared at the pregnant woman before him. "You and that damn bastard Eleonor really are a match made by the gods! You are both whacked in the head!"