The Song of the Sirens

Chapter 3

The days passed, filled with homework assignments, and hours of practicing her songs. Finally the day arrived. The career test was a breeze, everyone slipped through it in anticipation for that day's greatest excitement: the singing exam. The exam consisted of each young siren entering a room, and singing before a panel of three judges. They were expected to sing a difficult song that would display the strengths and weaknesses of their voice. If they passed the test, then they would be included in the next singing ceremony. If not, they were charged with a year of mandatory singing lessons and another test, until their voice was strong enough. Dwyn was scheduled as the third in line to sing for the panel. As she drew closer, adrenaline pumped continuously stronger through her veins. Finally, the doors opened for her to enter.
The room was large, cavernous, and very dark. "Dwyn Greysinth." a strong voice echoed throughout the cavern.
"Please begin."
"Um, what do I sing?" Dwyn asked, her voice full of fear.
"Close your eyes." the voice replied. "The words will come to you." Dwyn did as the voice asked. She let her eyes shut, and concentrated hard. At first, nothing happened. But then, like a rising tide, whispers seemed to fill her head. Dwyn opened her mouth, and let sound erupt from her lungs. She didn't even know what she was singing. She was merely letting all of her feelings pour out of her through melodies.
Never once did she open her eyes, not until the whispers in her head died, and she had no more song left to give. Then slowly, her eyes drifted open.
Dwyn gasped. All around her, misty seals lit up the room. One swam up to her. Dwyn extended her hand, letting out a laugh. She turned, surrounded by the sleek creatures. Suddenly, Dwyn saw past the seals. At the far end of the room, which was now illuminated, the queen floated, erect. In her hands, the diadem, the sapphire glowing even brighter than it had at the singing that the school had attended.
"Dwyn," the queen said. "That was quite remarkable."

Special thanks to my betas, my sister Tara and my bestie Vanessa. Check her out at Booknrd187.
Thanks for reading!