Sixteen

Fiadh's eyes move around nervously as we listen to the announcer introduce the males we met last night.

With each name, rank, and story, the crowd erupts like a volcano. The sound of their many voices causes the walls to shake and Fiadh to become more afraid. Zuri has tried to soothe her, but even her gentle touches seem to be too much for our easily spook-able friend. A few more minutes of this, and Fiadh runs the risk of passing out for sure.

"It's okay, Fiadh," Zuri whispers again, and I nod to show my support.

Fiadh gives us both a weak smile before looking back toward the door, but her hands don't stop shaking. I wish the room was more inviting. Maybe if the interior was nicer, we could distract her.

The bare reddish-orange walls give the room a very cellarish vibe, and there isn't any seating for us to relax. Zalu had warned me before we arrived that this place is just a big arena. It isn't fancy like the place we have been staying, but I don't know if the other corre