I press my eyes closed, trying to puzzle it out. The sun went entirely dark while we were inside—apparently no one had known about the major celestial event.
There are several possibilities. It could be some dark magic that has to do with the scourge —a scary thought, but perhaps the most likely. It could also have been planned magic as a way to celebrate the trials, but badly timed—why would they do it while we were all inside?
Or... my eyes drift over to my brother’s murderer, her face severe, her blond hair pulled back into a ponytail and a generic sword in her hand. Her eyes are black, as usual. Her frame is slight, her eyes big, her clothing plain and even raggedy. Everything suggests she’s weak and pathetic. Someone to be protected or ignored—certainly not someone to be feared.
Is this all a farce? Is there more beneath the surface?
Based on Charlie’s timing the eclipse happened around the time of the court showcase. Around the time Caelynn didnothingwith her power.
It’s not possible she is the one that blacked out the sun. Right?
Caelynn
Rev watches me withan expression of shock and confusion. I’m not sure what he’s figured out—there are quite a few possibilities, but I can’t afford to be distracted right now. I’m the underdog, I know. Ill prepared but not nearly as weak as they all assume me to be, which is exactly how I prefer it.
Still, I am untrained and out of practice, so I will need every ounce of determination to make it through today.
I return my attention to the weapons rack. We are given our pick of any weapons we’d like, and there are hundreds of options. Blades of so many shapes and sizes, each best for a certain frame or fighting style.
These kinds of weapons aren’t exactly my forte these days. I did enjoy my double katana set once upon a time. I handle one of a few small blades, getting a feel for its weight and length. I heave a sigh. I’m not prepared for this part and find myself hoping the first trial doesn’t involve hand to hand combat.
I’ll add that to my mental notes.
One, get a warm jacket.
Two, practice sword play.
I’m sure there’ll be more I need before these trials are through. For now, I add one more item.
Three, survive.
Out in front of us are iron gates studded with rubies, towering at least fifty feet high. The rest of the champions are now converging in front of them. I grab a pair of small swords and quickly strap them to my back. Those will have to do for now. They’re the closest thing available to my old set. Most likely, I’ll have to use one at a time. Using the two together is a challenge, and I’m not at all prepared for it.
I hope I’ve retained some muscle memory.
The doors crack open, exposing a tall sliver of light. I watch the blinding light with awe. It’s beautiful and pure and terrifying. Light exposes the truth. Shadows conceal them.
