The storm finally broke.
Rain hammered against the windows of the small room. Thunder rolled across the sky. Lightning flashed, illuminating the darkness for brief, brilliant moments. The city was drowning. The streets were empty. But inside the arena, Kael was wide awake.
He could not sleep. His mind was racing. The final match was tomorrow. Aldric was waiting. The hunters were waiting. Darian was waiting. Everything was coming to a head. And he had to be ready.
Zephyr lay beside him. The creature was sleeping peacefully. Its golden scales rose and fell with each breath. Its wings were folded. Its body was relaxed. It had no fear. It trusted Kael completely.
Mira sat in the corner. She was awake too. Her eyes were fixed on the window. She was watching the rain. Watching the shadows. W
