"Surprised? Its rather unfortunate that your father is in the condition that he is in but lucky for us, he was able to share that little bit of information with me"

Tina’s eyes widened as she stood in place not knowing what to do or what to say. Oracles were often a feared race. During the dark times, there were battles where most of the Oracles were wiped out. There are laws against mating with an Oracle since everyone is so desperate for the last remaining ones to be removed from the world.

Though Bette and Tina are both female, its very possible for them to have a child. Oracles are able to produce children with any gender. The only reason they haven’t is because Bette put a blocking spell on both of them.

It was much too dangerous with their sneaking around to even think about bringing a child into their world. Tina’s heart always fluttered at the possibility though . . she would have loved to have children with Bette someday.

"Have nothing to say for yourself Princess?"

Tina blinked up at Bird-Man. In truth, she didn’t have anything to say. She was tired of lying.

Tina raised her chin and spoke proudly, "If you’re expecting me to lie then I apologize but I have to disappoint. Its true that I’ve been in a romantic relationship with my Caretaker. I am in love with her"

The Council members whispered more fiercely with one another as Bird-Man just stared at Tina, stroking his feathered beard. It was obvious he respected her courage to admit such a thing but he still had to set an example.

"The Oracle has committed a crime punishable by death. Whether she is guilty or not doesn’t help her cause. An Oracle that can be so easily controlled only shows that she can be used as a weapon against us. We cannot allow that to happen"

No . . .

Bird-Man flashed a hint of sadness but Tina was far beyond showing any compassion. She knew what was coming and didn’t care that the deliverer of punishment felt remorse.

"She will be put to death at dawn"

Tina’s insides felt as if they were frozen over. Her heart was racing, her eyes were filling with tears. She lowered her head and clenched her fists so tight, her nails cut through her skin.

"As for you . ."

Tina picked her head back up and looked at the head Council member. His tone was very grave and that could only mean one thing.

"I’ve spoken to your father about this though I had yet to mention my final judgment"

Tina took deep breaths, ready for anything they would dish out. She knew the risks, she knew that being with Bette wasn’t something that would be tolerated but she didn’t care.

"Any intimate . . activity with an Oracle is also punishable. By keeping a romantic relationship with your Caretaker, you have broken several laws and violated any rights as a Princess. The punishment will be carried out no matter who you are or who comes to your defense"

Tina had no idea how the tables had turned so quickly. She thought back to the morning spent with her father. She had then wondered why he was acting so strangely and begging her not to confront the Council again. Now she knew the reason. Still, she didn’t regret anything. Being with Bette was the best thing that could have ever happened to her.

"Do you know the punishment for these crimes Princess?"

Tina looked the Council member in the eye, never showing fear.

"Yes" she said.

The Council member gave her one swift nod as two guards that were standing beside the door walked over and grabbed Tina, one on each side.

"You will be put to death along with the Caretaker and the traitorous maiden girl"

Tina didn’t say a word but walked with the guards as they escorted her out of the War Room. The head Council member spoke softly, his voice echoing in the room and Tina heard it before she exited the room.

"I’m sorry"