That hurt!” He rubbed his cheek, smearing the orange goo.
She rushed toward him. “Sorry, are you okay?”
He flinched, not looking happy to have the girl who’d just bested him trying to help him. Irrissa stepped back.
“Winner,” Lady Alexine announced, and Irrissa spun around. Thane waved to the cheering crowd before he turned and met her eyes. Her heart fluttered.
“It appears we’ve reached our final battle,” Sir Caton announced. “I think it’s safe to say that this is the most unusual match we’ve had in Foxfire history. Are the competitors ready?”
Thane stepped toward Irrissa with a smug smile. “I am.” “Uh, me too.” Her voice shook, betraying her nerves.
“Go, Thane!” Biana shouted. Her voice hid an edge that made Irrissa wonder if Biana wanted her to lose more than she wanted her brothe
