The leader raises his arms, and the crowd quiets.
“There are six returning victors today, and for these, we salute you.”
The crowd cheers as they look at us. I hardly think of myself as a victor.
“The object of today’s arena, contestants,” he booms, looking at all of us, “is to reach the top of the sand mountain. Whoever reaches the top wins, and will be spared from death. Yesterday’s victors are granted the privilege of a brief head start. Step forward, victors!”
Bree clutches my hand hard, and I step forward with her, and the others. As we do, the crowd cheers wildly. We all walk towards the huge mountain of sand, and I don’t know what to do. I follow Flo, as she leans forward and begins to climb up the sand. I put my hands into the soft sand, then my feet, and take a few steps. My f
