Xiran Jay Zhao

Wu Zetian,” a medley of voices whispers in my head. Not just Shimin’s, but Big Sister’s as well. And Yizhi’s. And my mother’s. And my grandmother’s. And so, so many nameless girls who have suffered under the lies I must expose. “Be their nightmare.”

Redemption story, they said?

There will be no redemption. It is not me who is wrong. It’s everyone else.

“Sorry,” I say, cold as Big Sister’s ashes. “You’re in my way.”

I crush the entire palace with the Dragon’s claw.