The First Look, Again

The air hummed with nervous energy as you, Yllana, took your seat amongst the other hopefuls. The Universe stage – a dream within reach. You were here for the crown, for the applause, for the title they said must come first.
Around you, candidates arrived, each a picture of poise and ambition. But then, a shift. Whispers. Gasps. All eyes turned to the entrance.
She walked in. Ahtisa.
Draped in white, the reigning queen from last year. Confusion rippled through the room. Why was she here? Then, the papers were handed out. Not a guest. Not an appearance. She was a candidate.
Your stomach plummeted. A promise broken. After years of silence, she was back, vying for the same crown. And just one look from those familiar eyes was enough to shake the foundations of everything you thought you had buried.
