The Trial in Bloomington, MN

The needle that pierced Magalah's lower spine was imperceptible. There was no feeling of pain, only the immediate reaction. She slumped to the ground, vacating her bowels and bladder. Magalah was still aware of her surroundings, aware of Insa and Na reaching for her even as she fell. Shock filled her brain cells when she saw the syringe in Insa's hands. No, not Insa. They were a mere child, gender-yet-to-be-determined, whom Magalah had taken in shortly after their arrival in Sector X. How could Insa betray her? It was not possible