Side Story 4.114 - Mud and Mayhem

Lily’s POV

I woke up before dawn, which is what usually happens—except when my brother had his big rematch duel and didn’t wake me up for it! I will never ever forget his betrayal.

Never!!

This morning, though? This morning was different. My chest felt like it carried a squirrel. Or maybe multiple squirrels hopped inside overnight and were doing interpretive dance across my ribs.

I slipped past our camp’s sleeping circle, careful not to trip on Brinn’s boots or Joha’s discarded scarf. My stomach rumbled. My mind raced. Today was the day. The Compass Game.

The Compass Game!!! 

I was finally old enough to join. (I’ve been suffering for six whole years ever since I was born, obviously.)

The clearing buzzed with energy.