FIFTY SIX

LAUREL’s POV

I stand at the Morningstar Square as the blazing sun rises above the horizon. Today, there is no morning breeze, instead, I feel the heat radiate in rippling waves as they rise above the ground over my boots. Here is where the duel with Nox will be.

A throng of spectators have gathered, they sit on rows upon rows of bleachers that curve upwards and though I wish it did not have to come to this, I have to admit that Rhode did a spectacular job in creating this makeshift arena. There is even a large scoreboard that has been erected behind the bleachers. I wonder if anyone placed bets on this duel.

“Laurel! You can do this!” someone screams from the crowd.

I squint my eyes, shielding them with my hand as my head turns towards the direction of the voice. And from the stands, I see the twins. They jump up and down, shaking their fists in the air.

“We’re rooting for you!” the