The massive sparring room loomed before Thalia, its high ceilings and cold stone walls a familiar sight after days of grueling training. But today, something was different. The air, usually thick with the scent of sweat and metal, held an undercurrent of tension and anticipation. Thalia's muscles ached as she stepped into the room, but she kept her face impassive, unwilling to show any weakness.
A towering black curtain blocked half the room, adding an air of mystery to the proceedings. Thalia's eyes swept across the checkered floor, noting how the cold morning light filtering through narrow windows cast long shadows across the stone. Competitors huddled with their trainers, speaking in hushed tones that barely disturbed the eerie quiet.
"It's a bit dramatic, don't you think?" a familiar
