Chapter 24 – Trial by Fire
The sky over Velandria was a bruised violet when the bell tolled. Low and ancient, the sound echoed through the marble halls of the Palace of Solstice like a heartbeat—deep, inevitable. Outside, the torches were already lit, casting wavering shadows across the stone pathways as the Selection contenders were led toward the Temple of the Flame.
Eira’s steps felt mechanical, her palms slick with sweat despite the evening chill. The velvet gown she wore—a shade of ember red chosen by Mira—clung to her like heat, suffocating. Around her, the other bridal contenders walked in strained silence, even Corvina’s usual smugness replaced with tension.
She should’ve felt prepared. The Oracle had warned her. Marion had whispered of the final trial’s dangers in hushed tones.
