Kael
Liora found me choosing a seat.
This was harder than it should have been.
The lower benches gave a clear view of the boundary. The higher ones gave a better view of the feet. One side had shade. The other had a man explaining the likely results to everyone who had failed to escape him.
I was prepared to lose the shade.
"You aren't staying here yet," Liora said.
I turned carefully.
"I've nearly defeated the seating arrangement."
"Come with me."
She led me along the outer passage to the permitted preparation area. Beyond it, the competitors' entrance was already busy. Aiden's match against Lucien came first. Hers followed after the ring was ready again.
Liora carried her sword case herself.
I reached for the door instead of the case. She went through, set it on the bench and looked at the clock above the equipment desk.
"I have a few minutes before they call the next checks."
"Do you need anything?"
"Yes."
