Chapter 19: Trial
The hallway to the Trial arena was super crowded with all sorts of people—nobles trying to get the best view, guards making sure everyone behaved, and servants running around getting things ready last minute.
You could totally feel the buzz in the air, like everyone was on the edge of their seats waiting for something big to go down.
Arthur and Elliot strolled through the crowd, and everyone actually stepped aside to let them through.
Unlike before when Arthur would go pretty much unnoticed at tournaments, today people stopped talking mid-sentence to stare at him. Some looked curious, others seemed suddenly respectful.
"Something’s different," Elliot said quietly, noticing how people were reacting. "They’re looking at you in a new way."
"Good," Arthur said. "Let them wonder about it."
The hallway opened into a big waiting area where different groups had gathered before entering the main arena.
Arthur could easily spot who was who—Ironwood supporters wearing red armbands were hanging out near the east entrance, talking loudly and confidently about how Gareth was definitely going to win; Blackrose agents with small black rose pins on their collars were strategically placed around the room, watching everything carefully; and regular people who got lucky with lottery tickets or knew someone important were just excited to see the show, no matter who won.
Near the servants’ entrance, Arthur saw Lily with a group of palace maids. While her friends were all chattering away, she just stood there quietly, hands clasped in front of her, looking around. But as soon as she saw Arthur, she lit up and blushed.
Arthur gave her a small nod—a quiet acknowledgment of their special connection—and she automatically touched her heart in response.
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