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The Elemental Gauntlet

last update Huling Na-update: 2025-05-18 19:29:29

ALTHEA

The grand hall is colder than usual.

My shoes echo against the marble as we line up before the throne. Everyone’s quiet, their heads lowered, waiting. The king sits on his high seat, staring down at us like we’re nothing more than insects. His crown glints under the morning light, sharp and heavy, just like his gaze.

I stand tall, but my heart pounds. The queen’s words from earlier still ring in my head. Keep your emotions in check. You’re being watched.

Asher stands beside his father, arms folded behind his back, eyes unreadable. He doesn’t look at me. I don’t look at him either.

“The time has come for your next task,” the king says, voice deep and loud.

No one moves.

“This challenge,” he continues, “will test your connection to nature. To power. To legacy.”

I see Noor shift beside me, her hands clasped tightly. Caroline stands a few girls away, chin lifted, like she’s ready to burn the world. Elise stares straight ahead, calm and proud as always.

“The elemental gauntlet,” the
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