After a hour's worth of much needed rest and a fresh set of clothes, Victoria found herself at the center of the arena once more.
The showman stood at the center of the grand arena as well, his extravagant coat shimmering under the midday sun as he addressed the eager crowd.
"The next tournament trial begins now!" His voice carried across the stadium, his enthusiasm sharpening each word. "The four competitors—Katherine Wellerton, Victoria Everhart, Freya Silvercrest, and Gwenivere Stohmount—will enter the depths of the Enchanted Forest of Daeheri, where two golden, magical relics await discovery. Only two shall emerge victorious, and the others shall face defeat."
A hush swept over the audience, an undeniable tension settling in the air. The enchanted forest was a labyrinth of magic, constantly shifting, unpredictable, and treacherous. What lay within was impossible to prepare for—and many who had entered it had never returned.
