Ky's POV
I look around the dark chamber, people huddle in the corner, hoping that the next person called ins't them. It makes me sick really, how people play these games for entertainment.
"Ky, get into the shadows, they won't see you," Her voice is raspy, but sweet. I chuckle humorlessly at her.
"Nothing is going to help us, we are all going to be called on at some point, might as well get it over with," my voice is hoarse from the lack of water, but it still manages to sound strong.
A loud creak gets our attention as a ray of light flows into the chamber.
Three guards with big guns come in; two stand at the door while the other seaches around our dark abode. "Okay, listen up, it's time for another match."
I hear people scurry to the darkest corners of the room while I remain in the middle of the room.
"You," the guard points to me, "Get up, your fighting Erika,"
A few gasps fill the room; Erika the avenger is what they call her in here. I always think it's so stupid,we all know the real one to fear is Sera. I've only seen her once; in the arena the day they brought me here.
They do that with all new people, bring them to watch the match to make them see what they are against. Once was all it took for me and now I am hooked. I would give anything to see her again; even if it's just a glimspe before I die.
"Let's go," I am taken by the shirt and drug into a tunnel leading off the slave chambers. They pull me into a small cage, through the bars I can already see my opponent strolling out into the arena. Her hands in the air and a smile stretched across her face, but that smile doesn't reach her eyes for they are sad and depressed.
"Get on then," The cage door opens and I am released into the arena, no weapon in my hand while she has a knife. How is that fair?
Unless they knew I at least had a chance with a weapon, so they didn't give me one.
I watch her, Erika, as she stalks me, looking for the best place to strike. I won't let her get that far. She steps forward and throws her knife to the side. The crowd gasps. My eyes avert to the knife, but I don't realize how stupid it was until my head smacks the ground.
My eyes go up to some sort of box and meet the gaze of hers. Her emerald eyes full of fear and certainty and then she is gone. At least I got one more look, right?
Hands wrap around my throat and I am being choked to death by this girl. She mouths the words "Sorry," before my eyes start to roll to the back of my head.
"The fight has been canceled," a voice announces. Erika's hands release me as she looks around, confusion written all over her face. I gasp in air as a couple of guards run in and grab me by the arms. I thrash around, wanting to get my hands around Erika's throat.
Something stings my arm and then everything goes black.
~*~
Sera's POV
I watch as he hits the punching bag furiously; his whole body fuming with rage. I can't help but notice his muscles working as he continues to beat the crap out of the poor bag.
He stops and leans against the wall, trying to catch his breath. He looks up, his eyes locking with mine. "Why do you stay here?" he asks in a voice so quiet I barely hear him.
"They have my little sister and Erika's mom, what else am I supposed to do? Just leave and let them get killed?" My voice gradually grows silent as tears glaze my eyes.
Ky stands and pulls me into him. I don't fight back, but instead lay my head on his chest, my arms wrapping around his waist. His scent fills my nose; it's sweet but also sweaty from his workout.
"I'm sorry for asking," he says as he sets his chin on my head. I close my eyes and listen as his heart beat, settling my nerves. God, I wish this would last forever.
But I know it can't. I pull away and stare down at the floor; my stomach fluttering excitedly. I don't think I can look at him, but I know he is staring at me.
I follow his hand with my eyes and see that he is reaching out for mine. Letting him take it; I feel the warmth in his hand engulf mine. Flames shoot up my arm; but the good kind, the kind that makes all your worries disappear.
At the sound of the doors opening, I instantly pull back; ripping my hand from his. I don't need Beatrix knowing why I actually saved him.
"Times up," one of the guards gruff voices call.
I glance up at Ky's face; my eyes meeting his gaze, "You better go,"
He nods and walks out of the door; leaving me and my thoughts alone.
