Hiraeth

Chapter Twenty Two

The day of the tournament dawned bright and clear. Sage stood in front of the ornate mirror in her room, adjusting the lace on her gown with trembling fingers. The dress was a deep emerald, fitted perfectly to accentuate her curves, and it shimmered in the light, making her feel both beautiful and powerful. But despite the glamour, a whirlwind of nerves stirred in her stomach.

"Breathe, Sage," she whispered to herself, staring into her own deep blue eyes. "You've trained for this. You're ready."

A soft knock on the door pulled her from her thoughts. "It's Kade," came his voice from the other side. "Are you decent?"

"Barely!" Sage shot back, a playful smirk creeping onto her face. "Come in!"

He opened the door, his expression serious but warm. "You look incredible," he said, eyes widening slightly as he took in her appearance. "That dress... it's perfect for you."

"Thanks," she replied, feeling her cheeks flush. "I figured I'd dress to impress. I want to show everyone that I'm not just here to compete-I'm here to win."

"Just remember to keep your head in the game," Kade said, crossing his arms. "You're going to have a lot of eyes on you today, and not all of them are friendly."

"I know. But I'm not afraid," she said, the determination seeping into her voice. "This is my chance to prove myself."

"Then let's go out there and show them what you've got," he replied, offering his arm with a smile.

Once outside, the spectacle was even more overwhelming. Spectators gathered in the stands, their eager chatter filling the air as the sun glinted off swords and armor. The arena itself was surrounded by banners of various houses, each representing the competitors who would face off today. Sage could see Fleck stretching nearby, his confidence radiating as he chatted animatedly with some of the other suitors.

But her gaze quickly found Beckett, standing tall near the entrance to the arena. He was clad in a fitted tunic that accentuated his muscular frame, the sunlight catching the scars on his arms, a testament to battles fought and challenges overcome. His dark brown eyes were fixed on her, and as their eyes met, a thrill shot through her.

"Are you ready to show them what you can do?" he called out, a teasing smirk playing on his lips.

"Just try to keep up, Your Highness," Sage shot back, unable to suppress a grin.

The official called for attention, drawing everyone's focus to the center of the arena. Sage's heart raced as the crowd quieted, and she could feel the weight of their expectations pressing down on her.

"Welcome, ladies and gentlemen," the official announced, his voice booming across the grounds. "Today marks the beginning of the annual tournament for the Crown's Favor! Our contestants will face various challenges, testing their skills in combat, strategy, and intellect. Let the games begin!"

As the crowd erupted in applause, Sage took a deep breath, channeling the adrenaline coursing through her veins. The tournament would start with a series of duels, pitting her against others in one-on-one matches.

"First up, Lady Sage versus Duke Fleck!"

A mix of excitement and dread swirled within her as Fleck stepped forward, his demeanor radiating cockiness. He met her gaze, a grin plastered on his face as he raised his sword in a mock salute.

"Ready to lose?" he taunted, his confidence infuriating yet oddly charming.

"Only if you can catch me," Sage shot back, her resolve hardening.

As the duel began, they circled each other, swords at the ready. Fleck lunged first, his movements quick and calculated. Sage countered his attack with agility, blocking his strike and spinning away with finesse. The crowd roared, and she felt the thrill of the fight coursing through her.