Chapter 18. The Hunter Arrives

Celeste’s POV

In the blink of an eye, a swelling crowd of onlookers pressed in around Nora and me, their excitement practically humming in the charged air. As they surged closer, their anticipation became tangible, like static on a stormy day. Their loyalty lay squarely with Nora—benedictions and cheers cascaded over us, echoing through the arena’s high walls.

Amid that heaving sea of faces, I spotted Nyra, kneading her hands at her sides. Her face was carved with anguish, her eyes wet with unspoken worry. But there was no time for pity: Nora launched herself toward me with unstoppable momentum.

She struck first with the speed of a gale. In that instant, I stepped aside almost before her fist could fully form, my body sliding out of the way on instinct. Yet she didn’t relent. Like a coiled spring, she rebounded and attacked again, her resolve unwavering. I flitted aside with practiced grace, anticipating the arc of her sword arm, the sweep of her shoulder.