Evora, daughter of Antimony

Ships do not often come to Lirima. The trees are coveted there, sacred, yet perhaps all ships start in Lirima, from the tall birches and pine. They have just never come to the light of fruition for the citizens, and Evora was of no difference. The ocean waves, the smell of ocean brine seeping into the wood, those were also unfamiliar to her. Foreign plants, crawling like vines on the side of the ship.

Though Lirima was focused on the essentials, Evora was only focused on one thing: plants. Of course, perhaps it would be foolish to note her focus as it was what was to be expected of a woman like her. She just happened to be more curious about such a subject than the rest of the world's subjects.

The ship she had only glimpsed at before being whisked aboard. The transport there was quaint, drivers kind yet clumsy like most were. The town, too, was quaint. The ship though, was not. It was monstrous, held only for a select few. The chatter had began quickly, those of higher status in the realm of magi congregating. It was like the academy all over, though there were men. At the academy it was years of gossip and competition and Evora felt discontent settle in her stomach. It was her yew that had kept her grounded throughout the years, and as the ship had begun to pull away from shore, she felt it comfortable in her long clothing.

Beneath the levels she sat, far below the others. To acquaint those who would be trying to defeat her would be most unprofessional. The only goal would be to view other's weaknesses and there would be plenty of time for that, but little time for peace and quiet and magic. For now, she sat between crates of vegetables, breathing the damp air as she stared at the strange plant that clung to the hull. Her yew branch was out, and she fiddled with it, waving it as she prodded gently at the flora, questioning its composition and if it was sentient enough to be manipulated. Fungi was never fun to work with.

She could hear the pattering of rough footsteps above, of the waves crashing with great force on the side of the ship. Peaceful, Evora could almost imagine herself back in Lirima, behind her home, listening. The waves were rhythmic, perfectly different while being perfectly in sync. The moss began to crawl up the wood, following her branch held in contrasting pale fingers against the darkened boards. Plants were perfect also, perfect spirals in perfect unison, always staying the same, through rain and shine and through dark and light. She enjoyed such patterns, a smile tugging at her lips as she became entranced, her focus growing ever stronger as she pulled her mind in many directions, pliable under her concentration. Her eyes disregarded her thoughts, though,keeping ever careful on the oft forgotten piece of mago. Mago, as her mother once told her, was a family tradition, a slang of sorts that sounded very odd to those from the inners of Lirima. Mago, magical object. No objects, plants, or animals, were ever inherently magic, but it was simply a way to distinguish one under a spell than one that was not, and it was quite difficult indeed to be able to produce a keen eye to spot the difference.

"Mago," she breathed out, her body exhaling as the moss began to curve and stretch until it became a rigid line that filled one of the many cracked sides. Tiny fragments of sea filled her visions until thundering above drew her from such wandering thoughts. For a moment she thought it was some sort of explosive, stories once told over a raging fire now filling her with dread until she realized it was only footsteps that grew ever quieter as they made their way down the ladder that led into the wide bunker. No thoughts of a storm filled her mind; they did not receive such rain in Lirima, only drizzle or snow. So it went.

Regardless of her fears she did not look back, mind still focused even though her body was not. Such was her force of magic that even as a figure sat down beside her, she did not look around. Perhaps she did not even realize he was sat there, but inwardly she knew. One could not focus if one did not notice their surroundings and adapt to ignore it. The figure beside her too sat still. Perhaps they were one of the powerful magi, coming to whisk her off, but she concluded as she drew her yew in an arc that they were probably looking for solace too. They were looking for the quiet.

"Hello," said Evora, with absentminded interest.

"Elsinor. I see there are many shadows here but I don't think you will be finding anything of worth down here. The others above said there was one down here. They sent me to scare you up there. Has it worked?"

"No."

They let out a laugh then, neutral in tone so Evora could not tell if it was genuine. Her moss was overcome with dancing shadows, causing it to shrivel immediately.

"You are a bit odd, it won't do you well to be so isolated once the fighting starts. They won't care if they kill you."

"Well, I don't think I'm quite odd, but if they cared anyway we wouldn't have much of a game, you see. I would rather practice than participate in the fake celebrations. I will go up, though, but not now. Thank you for coming down, but for a definitive answer: I decline your request."

Her yew branch had been tucked away by the time she ended her speech, the only light now coming from the hatch left open from above and the slivers of light that illuminated the area with light shadows and sea spray. She did feel odd though as the person, Elsinor, sat beside her. She did not want to go back up knowing now they were expecting her. Was it so foolish to believe in stubbornness in times of death? Perhaps.

"I like that." That was all they said, but they never moved to indicate their presence leaving. She had not even glanced over at the figure, but she knew they must have been smiling, or sort of smiling. "Not much of a game, interesting view, though I must disagree."

Though the silence had only lasted several moments before Elsinor spoke those last words, it would be many more before it fell silent once more. Evora listened quietly as she grew the suffocated moss back to life. Life and death, Evora thought, were much like people: when they speak, one does not appreciate the possibility of their silence; when they do not, one does not appreciate the value of the words when one so does. Evora let herself fall back into focus as Elsinor's words fell on empty ears, life turned to death, words turned to dust.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Althia, daughter of Galena

I spent the first hour of the sea voyage leaning my head over the railing, staring at the sea, breathing in the salty air that made my throat ragged and dry, and trying to not throw up.

Ironically enough, seasickness was one of the only things that affected me on a daily basis - when I was sailing, anyways - and it was one of the only things that I couldn't heal, since it wasn't an actual illness in magic's eyes, I suppose.

The air was heavy with sea salt that seemed to coat my throat in dry grains and scratch my voice into oblivion, making it sound less airy than usual, and shocking Branwen when I asked her to bring me a glass of water.

"Althia, your voice!"

"I know, it's the ocean air." I grimaced. "Could you get me just a glass of water that's not salty?"

She giggled and trooped down the stairs towards the under-deck galley, and I leaned forwards again as my breakfast threatened to make another appearance. A few of the silent Vasileians gave me glances, but whether they were of sympathy or disgust at such foreigners, I couldn't tell.

I rested my head on the railing and sighed, thankful that at least I was sitting in the shade, when Branwen returned, handing me a tall, cool glass with a smile. "I got someone to make it colder. They were kind of pretentious, but it's almost ice, now."

"Thanks. You're so sweet."

I took a sip of the near-freezing water and sighed, head resting on one of my palms. When I was chosen to compete in the trials, I didn't think it would result in spending two days sick as a dog on a boat, but maybe this was just the first challenge to endure.

I kept my head low as I turned around, risking the chance of throwing up all over the deck to watch my newest acquaintances - some, I could tell were from Crarog, with their bright red hair, dyed like blood. Others stood in silent groups, communicating through complicated gestures - those were the Vasileians. Everyone else I didn't know had to be from Aavayoh.

They all seemed so unconcerned, carefree, simply enjoying their boat ride. I was happy, too, to be able to take part in such an occasion and make new friends, but I wasn't just going to let such an opportunity pass me by without learning all I could.

"Hey!" I stopped a girl who looked more unusual than most I'd seen - her dark hair was half-purple, and it matched the small gems that lay across her temple. "Are you excited about this?"

She squinted at me and shrugged, then waved her hand in the air dismissively, a movement rather familiar, even if the gesture wasn't - she was Vasileian. The vow of silence made it hard for anyone to talk to them. Still, I gave her a smile and went back to my attempts not to soil the deck.

"Are you all right?" I heard from above me, and I tried my best to smile at the curly-haired Crarog, his bright hair like a beacon in the sunlight. He sat next to me and touched my arm lightly. "You look sick."

"The sea. . . isn't exactly my friend," I admitted. "I'm fine, as long as I ignore it enough."

He let out a light laugh and shrugged. "Well, I can't help you there. Are you from Aavayoh? What's your name?"

"Althia. Daughter of Galena. I'm from Lirima. You must be Crarog, with that hair." A smile escaped, but it was almost immediately replaced with a grimace as the boat rolled again.

"My name is Callus." We shook hands and I leaned back over the railing, pausing to sip my water again and hope that my stomach would stop spinning. He leaned with me.

"Are you excited for these? The Trials, I mean?"

"Of course. I love challenges." I frowned, then, as a thought occurred to me. "But. . . it'll be hard. And I'm not sure I know enough to be any good."

"Oh, I'm sure you'll do fine. I-" He stopped, glancing up at the rest of the deck. "Actually, you know, I should go."

"What?"

"My homelanders are waiting, I think. It was nice meeting you, Althia."

"You too."

I sighed and rested my head on the railing again, watching the roiling sea pass by, and considering. Even those who didn't talk were still friendly, and the ones who did talk I was already making friends with.

How was I meant to kill them in a week?

The water was almost empty in my glass, and when I breathed in again, the salty air - which had only seemed to get saltier - seemed to scrape my throat raw. I sighed and gulped the last sip of my water as fast as I could, but it was no use.

If I couldn't handle a boat, I wasn't sure I'd survive the Trials.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Sierra, daughter of Maldiva

Sadness. Anxiety. Fear. Agitation. Restlessness. Insomnia.

In acronym, they spell out SAFARI. SAFARI, tumbled in Sierra's mind over and over again from the time she was picked until the boarding station, where all of the other mages she will be participating with. Killing with. Dying with.

Sierra was timid. She was twirling locks from her hair, very anxious. SAFARI must have been taking in a good part of her, as she wasn't her usual relaxed composed self. She was purely in SAFARI state.

"All mages up for boarding." A mechanical voice said. Sierra lifted herself lazily from the waiting area, and neutrally walked herself in the big ship, they will take on their way to a confidential area, where they will practice and perfect themselves, that is before they die.

Sierra was sure she already had one foot in the grave. She even maybe the first to die in this game of death. She was certain.

Some were noisy, some haven't left the state of terminal shock yet. Either way, Sierra was not ready to socialize just yet. She quickly got her key from the ship cashier, and quickly went on the maze of pathways, hopefully finding her room.

The thought just rung over and over, until it finally took effect. Not only she Tears started to stream down her face, followed by a few whimpers, as it finally struck down on her, that she'll be killed. Nothing but another name in the everlasting sea of tributes. She didn't know how she found her room with all the drama that has been going on. Without thinking, she unlocked the door and went inside.

The room was utterly beautiful. It had a small glass chandelier, paintings styled with a Baroque theme, an oak bordered mirror, varnished frame of bed with the softest cushion, dark goldenrod carpet made entirely of wool, rich lampshade atop of the redwood drawer, and a gorgeous view at the ocean.

Quite bizarre when you are having the best life before you die in a matter of days.

Sierra's crying came into a halt, as her jaw dropped when she further explored the room. "Such glamour." She finally spoke up. Without thinking, she flopped into her bed and slept.

~~~

It was way past eventide when Sierra finally woke up. A fuzzy halo rounded her face, and the pitch black glow from the outside made her confused. She only panned on taking a nap, but she had no idea that she was that tired. She had no choice but to go out and explore, hopefully to socialize.

She took a left, another left, a right, straight forward into the main lobby. She planned on going to the top deck, to hopefully gaze at the stars perched millions of light years away. "Excuse me? Where is the way to the main deck?" She asked the cashier. "Go up that staircase, and continue on once again, then take a left, then up again." The cashier said flatly. "Thank you." She replied, and then she booted up the stairs.

She did what the cashier told her. Albeit confused, she still somehow managed to get to the main deck. The night was starry as she walked to the edge of the ship, and gazed at the stars. But then, she looked down, and took her wand out. "Incendio." She chanted on the water. A burst of fiery sparks shot out of her ivory wand, as she watched the little jets of fire disappear in contact with the water. "Can't sleep?" A soft female voice states behind Sierra called. Sierra spun around, and examined the girl. She saw a pale-skinned girl, who was quite unusual. Her face was a little bit surly because of the high cheekbones, hair tainted violet, with specs of frosty white and blue the tint of zirconium.

Sierra, clearly surprised at how things have took a sudden turn, replied, "Uh, yeah. I guess you could put it that way." The girl quietly nods, and moves in beside her. She couldn't quite decipher why this girl had the courage to talk to her, but she'll let this one pass for now. Seeing this as a perfect chance for an alliance, Sierra said : "Can we be in an alliance together? I know we barely met but-"

"I'll think about it." Her soft voice said. "Ah, Ok." Sierra said, sounding completely embarrassed. The minutes passed like blurs, meaning utter silence was just present in the environment between Sierra and the girl. This girl was weird yes, but Sierra thought that if she asked what her name and nation was, it would be just more awkward between them. Sierra, who thought this could be potential danger stood calm. "I'll be going up now. I'm sleepy." She said. The girl quietly nodded once again, and Sierra headed for the stairs.

She did not even got to know her name. She did not even ask what her nation was. She did not even tell her if her alliance request was accepted. Already, she was sucking at this trial of life.

She headed for the labyrinth of pathways once again. She has gone light-headed, dumbfounded how she played out. It had to be one of the other mages she would compete, because she would be stupid enough to ask her for an alliance if she really wasn't a part of this game of death. Had to be.

When she reached her door, she opened it with such violence it almost broke. She was mad at herself, anyway.

"Why did I have to be so stupid?!" She screamed. "I did not sign up for this!"

It took a while to calm herself down. SAFARI was at it again. She finally became drowsy moments after her cool down, and fell asleep after a considerable amount of time.

~~~

It was morning when she awoke. Through the window, she can see the bright blue ocean ahead of her, but she was starting to see something in the distance. There was a tiny dot of green. An island. Had to be where they are going. She should have breakfast first. Panicking at what there is to come, she ran out, hopefully to get some food. Her last intake was yesterday, before the choosing.

SAFARI is back. And SAFARI will be stronger than ever. . .

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Roux, daughter of Calema

Stupid acts of the past will affect your future is something my mother use to tell me. I would have listened. So now one moment I'm at home playing with my demon friends, next thing you know, I'm are in Craorag, going to a damned island for some dumb thing. They didn't even tell me the complete information! Stupid leaders...

Now here I am wandering the streets of this port city, scaring the little kids and making the elderly grasp their chest at the sight of me. I don't see what's so scary about me. Blonde hair, green eyes and pale skin. Nothing out of the ordinary. Well except for the Baphomet on my neck. A gift from a greater demon when I made a contract with her so I may be able to control the demons. Demons are interesting creatures. You see they may cause chaos and destruction but they are really loyal. My only friends are them, and might I say what great friends they are.

The smell of the ocean wash over my being as I continue to get closer to the port, that is until I heard a fight inside a tavern. Well I caught like a minute of it. Something about someone named Gajeel being an outcast here in Craorag? I shrug continuing down. Others from Lirima stare at me like I'm a disease. A very contagious disease. More and more started to file into the street, as they came I fell farther back.

Until it was me and this one guy. He had walked out of the tavern where the fight was. He has long hair in a ponytail and an iron metal earing in his right ear. If I knew any better, I would say this guy isn't from around here. That's when it hit me. He was the guy that was being called an outcast. By the way everyone's demeanor around him, it shouldn't have been hard to tell. "I heard most of the fight in there. It's true you were shamed?"

The guy glares at the sound of my voice. "None of your business, Moss Eyes."

I raise an eyebrow, frowning deeply, "Really? That's the best you can come up with?"

He smirks at me as he crosses his arms over his built chest, "Unless you'd rather me call you blondie?"

I gag at the sound of being called blondie. That's the one thing I hate about having blonde hair, people think they can call me that. I shook my head looking up at him, "My name is Roux, daughter of Calema."

"Okay, Moss Eyes, daughter of Calema."

I punch him hard in the chest. I would say it didn't hurt, but I would be lying. Mother did tell me I mustn't tell lies. He rubbed the spot where I punched him chuckling, "You pack quite a punch."

"Tell me something I don't know" Now it's my turn to grin at him.

"And you're arrogant. I think I could grow to like you, Moss Eyes,"

After a few quiet seconds, I finally say something, "Your name is Gajeel, right?"

Gajeel nodded, but said nothing more.

"You're an outcast like me." I look straight ahead, with a blank face.

It took Gajeel a second to respond, "Why would you just admit that out of nowhere?"

I shrugged. "I can be a bit blunt sometimes. I don't see the need to beat around the bush."

"Yeah, I could definitely get used to you, Moss Eyes."

We continued to stay in the back of the group, which grew larger the more streets we walked down. At last, we reached the outskirts of the poor city, and walked onto the port docks. The docks swayed under our feet from the unruly waves. The smell of the ocean and fish hit me like a pound of bricks. I continued to walk not noticing Gajeel stopped. I turn to hear Gajeel curse. "What?"

"Nothing," he muttered, following after me.

Shrugging I kept on until we boarded the ship. I stand at the railing next to my new acquaintance. He intrigues me. What did he do to become an outcast? How bad was it? I mean it must be bad enough that he didn't dye his hair red like normal people here do. I roll up the sleeves on my tunic and adjusting the corset so it doesn't dig too much into the underneath of my bust.

It wasn't long before the ship set sail. A woman named Elswyth explained that they were heading to an island-a two day voyage. The mast and sails snapped and fluttered in the wind as the men of the ship opened sails. The sound of the Captain and the crew made this whole voyage seem more real. Like before I thought it was a joke but now... this is reality. The ship rocked and rolled underneath us as we hit open water.

A wide grin comes onto my face at the sight of land disappearing. Thank god. Good by hell, hello... well... hell. I look over at Gajeel to see him turning green "You look like you have never been on a ship before,"

Gajeel shook his head. "I have, just-" His hand flew up to his mouth as he leans farther over the railing. His stomach empties of whatever he had for lunch. I burst into laughter patting his back. Even after he was done hurling, I was laughing.

"Feel better now pal?" He just glares at me, fueling my laughter even more.

~-~

We were only an hour in and I'm already bored. I have scared everyone with the help of Kanie the Eidolon demon. She is one of my favorites being a shapeshifter and all. She normally appears as a normal women with black hair and grey eyes, but when she is out on the hunt or to scare, her face turns upside down. A forked tongue would slither out of her mouth full of serrated teeth the size as my fingers. Her eyes turn pitch black, making them seem like they are looking into your soul. Well that's actually what they do. They find your soul so she can eat it. What a wonderful creature she is.

Everyone glances at us every now and then with worry, as if we are going to kill them. "Stupid humans."

"You can say that again" Kanie laughs at my response.

Gajeel watches from afar, curiosity in his eyes. I just grin, shaking my head. Kanie sees where I am looking and a sly grin slips onto her face, "Now he is interesting"

I laugh, turning away looking back out at the sea, "I guess if you are into guys like him"

"Honey I'm an Eidolon not a Succubus" She nudges at my side, "If I was I would pounce on that"

I gag at the way she was talking. "Ya and just give every other guy on this ship demon pox while you are at it."

Kanie rolls her eyes, "I would but I don't think that's okay in this"

"If it was I would instantly let it happen. Just so this can be over sooner" I say truthfully.

"Welp its time for me to go or then you will be using too much of your energy." Kanie kisses the back of my head, "I will see you later. Call me when you get lonely on that island" And just like that she bursts into a ball of flame, disappearing. A feeling of loneliness washes over me without her presence. She had became my mother in a way because mine was shit.

I sit down onto the deck leaning my head back against the railing. Sighing I close my eyes, looking up at the sky. I slip to sleep, all I can think about is the next few days.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Branwen, daughter of Yrlissa

I wasn't very happy. Honored, maybe, but not happy.

A mess of grey cloaks billowed up from the ground as I followed the group of mages to the waiting boat. None of us spoke-maybe for fear that our apprehension would show through.

People crowded the normally lonely street as we walked, faces stained with sweat, dirt, fear and hope. The world was in chaos and the crowd looked at us, craning their necks to get a glimpse of their next savior.

Words like 'death' and 'fate' and 'magic' reached my ears. None of the prospectors were open enough to say anything directly to the group of twenty-five, but their whispers lingered in the air long after their breaths had faded.

Elswyth, daughter of Idessa, lead us through the bustling town to the port. Occasionally a bird would land on her shoulder, chirp something in her ear and leave. She would nod and give instructions to those who needed it.

Although Lady Elswyth was not old, her legend was one that was taught all over Lirima. She was a powerful mage who did her best to guide Haylin through the inevitable tough times. She was a role model-someone that every aspiring mage dreamed of meeting. I had that dream too, at some point, although I pictured meeting her at graduation-when I was to become a full fledged mage.

Instead, when I saw her with my own eyes, her expression was a grim one. I was pulled out of my advanced phytomancy class, and informed of the news. I felt honored to be chosen because of my skills but I was saddened. I was leaving behind a good life.

I suppose it felt good to be able to save the world, to stop people from feeling even more pain, but I couldn't help but feel down-trodden. In order to give them a better life, I had to give up my own.

The docks where now visible in the distance. A large ship tossed and turned in the tumultuous waters, much like my stomach. I was not a big fan of the ocean or boats. The constant motion gave me constant nausea.

A few grey and white seagulls frolicked amongst the masts, kissing the sails with every motion of their wings. Blue skies were dotted with small fluffy, white clouds. A warm breeze stirred up the scent of salt. The words Lady Serenity were painted in silver lettering on the side of the ship. On any other occasion, the scene would have been very picturesque.

Elswyth walked up the ramp and paused at the top, turning to speak to us. "Darling mages, we are about to embark on the journey of a lifetime." She gave us an award winning smile. "Make sure you have everything you may need before you step aboard." Elswyth then turned at walked away, disappearing behind the railing of the ship.

As though we were mindless beings, we followed her up the walkway.

Immediately after the vessel began its journey, I knew that I was in trouble. Even the slightest movement of the ship moved my stomach to places it should never be. I moved to the right side of the ship, preparing myself for an accident. The other mages gathered in clumps, discussing various forms of magic and their life before their inevitable death. I desperately wished to join them, however I knew that any movement would push my sickness over the edge.

The division among the different nations was very evident. I'm fairly certain that my probably green face turned off any friendly ones from speaking to me.

A particularly large wave knocked the ship, and the contents of my lunch. After spitting over the edge, I turned to come face to face with the Lady Elswyth.

"Hello Branwen," she gave me a pitiful smile.

I bowed slightly, nearly falling over as the ship rocked again. "Hello. To what do I owe this pleasure?"

Elswyth frowned, "You look a bit of unwell. Can I do anything to help?"

I blinked in surprise. My hero just offered to help me. "No, I don't think there is anything you could do. But thank you."

Lady Elswyth's concerned look didn't leave her face but she continued speaking, her voice very cheery and upbeat. "Have spoken to any of the other mages?"

"Not yet." The trek here had been a quiet one, I was enveloped into thoughts and nightmares of what I was about to do. I was going to, of course, but I was still hesitant to leave the side of the boat. And I couldn't make myself believe that it was alright to kill the people standing in front of me. Yet I could understand why this fight needed to happen. "I will."

"Miss Elswyth!" A stocky, bearded man jogged over to our position. "There is a problem with a whale that appears to be intent on following us."

"I will be right there." Lady Elswyth turned back to me as the man walked back to the captains hold. "Good luck Branwen." She squeezed my hands and turned away.

After a few minutes, I was tired of being alone. I walked towards a dark haired woman who seemed to be lost in thought. Although she had been surrounded with a few mages from Craogag only moments before, she was alone. She wasn't very tall but held herself with dignity.

"Hello!" I put on an award winning smile and held out my hand. "I'm Branwen, daughter of Yrlissa. Who do I have the pleasure of meeting?"

Her dark eyes glanced down at my hand, unsure of what to do. I realized after that the shaking of hands between women was probably not something she was accustomed to. It was a masculine tradition after all. "Atlanta al Thea." She hesitantly placed her hand in mine, become frigid and stiff.

"It is very nice to meet you. Where are you from?" I dropped her hand. Atlanta appeared to be the quiet type, not one for many words. That was perfectly fine with me because I always had plenty of things to say.

"I was born in Aavoyah." That meant that Atlanta was a victim of the cast system, although the intricate red dress she wore and the way she spoke indicated that she probably was not a member of the lower casts.

"I am from Lirima. Do you enjoy living in Aavoyah?"

"It's nice enough."

I simply nodded. It is difficult to keep a conversation going when you are the only one asking questions. "That's good."

"I practice phytomancy, what type of magic are you gifted with?"

"Hydromancy, it's quite a challenging skill to master." She seemed to be relaxing now, probably because she had decided that I was no threat to her.

"I bet it is, controlling a force that is so powerful must be quite the test."

Atlanta smiled as though she was glad I understood.

At that moment, another gust of wind moved the boat. The blood drained from my face as a wave of nausea crashed over me. Atlanta looked at me with concern. "Are you alright, Lady Branwen?"

"Yes, will you excuse me for a while? I will come find you later."

"Of course."

I turned away as quickly as I figured was not rude. I made my way down the stairs to our sleeping quarters. A single bed filled the majority of the ten by six foot room. In an attempt to feel better, I through myself onto it, not bothering to close the door behind me.

It was only then that thoughts of my parents echoed through my mind. I had left the academy in a rush, only able to send a hastily written note about what I was doing. My mother was no doubt overwrought with grief, as was my father. I could imagine her blonde hair pulled up in a bun as she sat with my father, tears falling down her beautiful cheeks. I wished that I could have said goodbye, maybe seeing them one last time would help have the strength to take the lives of innocent people.

A sob jolted through my body, how was I supposed to do this? I didn't know. But I did know that the next days to come would not only decide my fate but the fate of Halyin as a whole.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Arian, son of Eydis

DID NOT HAND IN

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lucia of Argi

I've never left my country, let alone met someone from anywhere else. And now, I'm expected to talk and make light conversation with eighteen people who don't understand my language. For two whole days. On top of that, the five others from Vasileio are annoying as hell. Not that I've bothered to speak with any of them, though.

So, instead of following my parents' pleads to make friends and alliances, I've decided to stay in my room the whole time. Maybe not the best option, but it sure beats trying to make small talk with people who don't understand my sign language. And it most definitely beats trying to do an awkward charade game and making a complete fool of myself.

I must admit that the room was starting to get boring. With only a bed, desk, and chair, there wasn't that much to do, but I had already made my decision, and I wasn't about to go back on that now. The only way to solve boredom was to have a little fun with magic. I pulled out a vial of blood and a doll from my bag. I turned the vial over and let a couple drops of blood fall onto the white canvas of the doll.

The deep crimson contrasted against the perfect white of the doll, looking more beautiful than sinister.

Blood easily taken from a life that was spared,

doll from my house, filled with love and with care

arise now from slumber, present me a friend,

use the blood as much as possible, be with me until the end.

As the last of the symbols left my hands, the blood turned a bright gold and emitted bright streaks of light on the ceiling. The doll then stretched out her arms and stood up. All traces of the crimson stains were now gone, leaving only clean white canvas.

"It's so good to see you, Master Lucia! It's been so long since you've awoken me! What do you need from me? Or, do you just want to play like what we used to?" the doll twirled around on the bed, her skirt floating in the air. As she spun around, color began to appear on the fabric in splotches. It was almost as if some invisible person had a paintbrush that the doll was spinning beside. Soon, she was no longer a plain white, instead, her cheeks were a light pink, her hair a golden blonde, the dress a pastel blue, and her skin a muted version of my own.

I smiled. Even though I wasn't in the mood to meet new people, it was nice to have someone to talk to, even if it was just Lady Colette, my childhood doll.

I don't need you to do anything this time. Maybe later, but not now. At the moment, I just want to talk, because I might not get to talk to you again after today. Ever. I signed.

A tiny tear began to creep out of Colette's eye, "But I love talking with you! Why would you go away? Forever?"

Reaching over to wipe away her tear, I began to explain everything.

I was chosen to participate in the Trials. This could possible be the best thing that's ever happened to me, but they will be very dangerous. I could lose you, or even lose my life. It is a great honor to even be chosen, though, and you should not be sad.

The doll sniffled, and tried to hold her tears back, but yet another one slipped out.

"I'm going to miss you so much, Master Lucia! I'm happy for you though. I'm glad that you were chosen to go, but I'm still sad you might not be able to talk to me." Colette frowned, but no more tears came out.

I have to try to keep myself from crying. It's not that I'm scared, I'm not, it's more of the fact that now someone else knows I might die. And that someone else is a child at heart.

I'm glad I was chosen too. I picked her up and set her on the desk, that way we could both look out at the sea, and get our minds off of what would happen later and focus on what is happening now.

The sea is very calming. It takes my mind away from the fact that everyone here is annoying and a complete idiot. I giggled for her benefit. It was nice to have someone to talk to, but I didn't anticipate having to watch every word I said. It was almost as exhausting as avoiding the other passengers.

All too soon, the blood's power ran out, and the doll's colors began to fade, and her movements and words became forced and sluggish.

"I'm... beginning to fade... it was nice... talking with you... again, Master... Lucia. I hope we will meet again." She smiled, then went still as she once again became a simple, pure white canvas doll. No trace of color, blood, or life was left. I cradled her in my arms for a second. Despite the fact that I was nearly nineteen, tears began rushing down my cheeks over a doll. I was sobbing because I might never be able to talk to a doll again.

And I didn't care.

"Lucia of Argi, Guardian Elswith asked me to summon you for dinner. It will be held- am I interrupting something?" a girl's voice politely asked from my door. I hastily wiped all the tears from my face and shoved Lady Colette and the vial of blood back into my bag.

No, I'm good. Thank you. I will be there in a moment. I signed over my shoulder.

"The boat is like a maze, so I can wait for you if you would like." the girl offered.

I looked over, surprised she had understood me. She had the trademark high cheekbones and black hair of Vasileio, but was obviously not an aristocrat by her amber eyes.

I nodded, thankful to have another Vasileio to talk to, even if my face was streaked with tears. This time I could still talk with someone, and not have to worry about scaring them.

Thank you very much. I quickly glanced over at my reflection, and was surprised to see that my face wasn't nearly as red as I thought. I added a rapid light touch of makeup and followed the other girl out of my room, and we began our walk to the dining hall.

After many wrong turns, a couple of dead ends, and one or two walking into someone's room, we finally made it into the dining hall and sat down at the Vasileio table.

Maybe they wouldn't be as annoying as I first presumed, and maybe it wouldn't hurt to get to know others a bit better. Or, at least not kill them until the Trials start.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Fabionna of Elita

Determined face, smooth breathing, confident posture, okay, I got this. I am Fabionna of Elita, I have no fear...

We have all been summoned to this strange town in this strange country of Craorag. All I know is that this is a town by the sea, I can smell the sea salt in the air, it's very calming. I assume the trials will be held on and island then.

The trials... I don't even want to be here. My parents told me go try for it, I just thought I wouldn't make it, I hadn't finished my training yet! In the end, to my disbelief and sorrow, I did make it. So now I'm pretty sure I'm gonna die. I glance around me, there are some really strong people in these trials, people who are way more experienced than I am. There is no way I'm getting out of this alive...

We walk through the bustling town, streets crowded with people bargaining with shop owners. It's a lively and refreshing sight compared to the dullness of Elita. The cheerful, bubbly guardian, Elswyth I think, leads us through the confusing streets. She seems kind enough, but considering what she and her colleagues are making us do soon, I have no intentions of trusting her.

Elswyth leads us to the seaside, a port. Vasileio has no ocean, we have rivers, mountains and forest. She ushers us on the boat, most of the crowd jump on without hesitation. Not me, looking upwards at the ship looming over me. I shudder, this is my first time on a boat... I remind myself to look strong and confident, and step on calmly. The slight, continuous wobble shocks me. Panic fills me up, suffocating me. Fighting diligently to keep calm and collected, I can only hope the sickness is not as obvious as I feel it is. This is the first day with this group of people, and I'm already showing weakness, what is happening to me?

Elswyth quickly goes through a round of introductions, only a few stick in my mind though. She then assign our rooms throughout the massive ship, tells us to mingle, and gleefully hops off. She has something up her sleeve and I know it, but I feel too sick to care. I stagger to my room, hoping to have time to collect my thoughts and calm my stomach before dinner.

I let my tense body relax itself, since no one is watching me and I can be myself. Feeling tears stinging my eyes, I try to fight them back, but I can't. I drop onto the wooden floor, silently sobbing. Why am I here? Why me of all people? I just want to go back home, to my parents, to my friends. I can't trust anyone here! We're all just going to try and kill each other!

Suddenly, I feel a small tap on my shoulder, I nearly jump up in fear. I'm so embarrassed, now people know just how weak I am. Blood rushes to my cheeks, as I slowly turn around, afraid of who I will see. It was the blonde boy from Craorag, with his piercing eyes, I expect him to be menacing and scary.

"What's wrong??" he asks softly, surprising me. He didn't seem like that kind of person.

"N-nothing..." I sniffle, feeling even more embarrassed, if that was even possible.

"Come on, you can trust me. I promise I won't tell anyone else," he continues softly still.

"Vistorice," I say, surprising myself that I even remembered his name, "I, I can't trust anyone here, I'm sorry, but everyone's just going to try and kill each other anyways. How am I supposed to make friends with anyone?"

"Well, I suppose it's true, but that doesn't mean we can't befriend anyone, does it?"

I smile softly, grateful to hear that, "I suppose I'm just making it hard for myself... Thanks," this kid was smart for his age.

He smiles back, "No thanks needed. I heard Elswyth wants all of us on deck in about half an hour. See you then, Fabionna." With that he leaves my room.

For the rest of the half hour, I try and get myself together. I prepare myself to put on that tough shell again, but I'm not letting it fall this time. The sickness slowly starts to fade, as I get use to the back and forth of the wooden ship.

I make my way up to the deck of the ship, making some wrong turns through the labyrinth of hallways. Eventually, I arrive to the deck, being hit by a gust of salty air and a breathtaking sunset. This is what I needed, Mother Nature. I stand there, at the edge of he deck, just admiring the sunset, and the colours reflecting into the ocean. Reds, blues, yellows, purples, it really is stunning.

As the sun finally goes down, and a cold darkness surrounds me. The air lights up with colours. Surprised, I turn around to notice that Elswyth set up some refreshments for us, and put up different decorations on the boat. I suppose it's a welcome party? How are these lights possible though? They're just floating in mid air, brightening up the night sky. I quickly realise it is a crew member with photomancy probably. A band appears suddenly and starts playing music, and people start dancing. Looking like they're having the time of their lives. If this was back home, I would join without a second thought. Yet this, this is different. I just don't get it, how can they be so okay with everything that's happening to us?

Through the flashing lights and blaring music, I realise that nobody is going to notice me, and decide that I don't have to keep up my shell that much. No ones gonna care if I seem tough or not anyways. All I can hope is that Vistorice hasn't told anyone about our little encounter.

I stare at the almost black ocean, it's tendrils of shadowy darkness running through the salty water, captivating me. Suddenly a kind voice asks, "What are you doing?"

I turn around, coming face to face with a black haired girl. "Just thinking," I reply.

"Your eyes are kind of red, are you okay?" she continued. Hearing the thoughtfulness behind her voice, I can't help but to want to trust her.

"Uhh... Yeah... Actually, no. I'm not okay, how are you ok? We are all going to try and kill each other in like two days, how can I trust anyone?" I ask, she starts to reply, but I cut her off, "Also, I miss home. I miss my parents, I miss my friends. Now I won't even get a chance to talk to them ever again. I'm just gonna die out here on some island."

"How do you know you're going die?" she asks.

"Look around you, there are many people her that are so strong. How would I win? And you're saying this? If you want to come out alive, I'm going to be dead anyway, so don't try and comfort me!! I don't even know your name!" I snap at her, getting annoyed.

"Well, I'm Atlanta al Thea, nice to meet you," she stretches her hand towards me, smiling kindly.

Surprising myself even, I smile back at her, shaking her hand, "Nice to meet you too, I'm Fabionna of Elita."

The rest of the night whirls by me. Elswyth entertains us with tricks with her zoomancy and jokes galore. I start to loosen up, even though I know it's a bad idea. I chat with Atlanta and Vistorice occasionally, but the music and the lights just overcomes me and I lose myself. I let go, and for just one night, I feel free.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Alegria of Eerie

Mama.

They all seem so . . . closed-off. Submerged within their one-person bubbles, their heads too stuck around this one stick of knowledge: death. Plotting everything they're about to do; working for the magic their bodies have somehow obtained. The scent of death lingers around the spaces between us. It's too prominent to be ignored, and the thick tension just makes it all too clear for me.

Mama, I can't be here.

They've started loading the ships with other men - the ones who will be at work. People have found out about their ability to talk, though, and soon there are hushed mutters. Already there are ones who've isolated themselves from us. I don't have any plans regarding socialization, so instead I look out the glass-less, circular window squeezed between the ship's old wood. The Sun sizzles at the horizon, tainting the water orange and sending gleaming spots over the surface. Too bright. Too different. About half is expecting rain, some expect nothing, but I expect it to be just this. Something equally wrong and real to stimulate the situation.

Mama. Can't you see it's wrong?

And then, after a brush of a second, all the mutters cease to nothing. The sounds of light, almost ghostly steps on the wooden floor boards fill the wide room. I feel a ripple as the hairs on my back stand. The power living within me has suddenly started to thrash, as if attracted to the more powerful magic it can sense that's walking in this very distance. My fingers shake, and I try my hardest to control everything in, gripping the edge of my seat in the process.

Please. I can't hold it in. Not after this, Mama.

Elswyth, a quarter of the Guardians supervising the whole of Halyin gracefully halts to a stop in the centre. She takes in the moment carefully to look upon each and every one, and I fight the urge to look away when her eyes land on mine. She blows into her cheeks and lets out a long, perfected sigh after a few seconds, and all hold their breaths.

And then she smiles.

Mama?

A lilting laugh echoes inside, and it's not even hollow. It fills and pleases the senses, and I find myself slowly releasing my tight grip from underneath. Elswyth, with prominent laugh lines on, proceeds to talk. "Lovely to see you all - oh, it really is, hush - and likely, you're all very happy to be here, too."

No one utters something to oppose that statement - although I'd really love to.

"Oh. I see everyone in Vasileio has gathered together. Why don't you start making friends while we're still here, on a voyage?"

We all stare at her. Again, I'm fighting to move my hands and let them fill the silence with something more than sound.

Elswyth pouts and shakes her head a bit. "I forgot. It really is convenient to have Miyu here, or at least Cyprus, whom I don't understand too."

Mama, please. Can't you understand?

After a moment of shared words with the other Nations, Elswyth moves again to speak in the centre. "The sun is setting. Expect us to reach the island tomorrow morning." The lightness in her voice has slightly diminished. "For now you need to rest and ready yourselves." Those are her last words as the last wisps of white silk leaves the room.

I close my eyes as this all sinks in and registers in my mind.

Mama . . . I won't witness your face if I ever come back again.

The scent of death fills my head. All of them are ready; I could just sense their anticipation over the maze of minds my power can reach out.

Death. I'm not ready, Mama.

I'm not you.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Eira of Nessus

Eria lent over the side and felt the wind toss her hair. She watched as the waves danced and rose up against the side of the ship. She looked above to where the sails where catching the wind and blowing towards, God knows what. They had been on the boat for only an hour and already a brawl had broken out. One between the tributes from different Nations, she hadn't been involved. Eria had escaped to the upper Decks.

The small girl found that the stuffy confines of below decks made her magic revolt in her. She needed to feel the water spray in her face, to feel free. She reached down the side of the ship and with a muttered word; she drew up from drops of water to dangle in front of her face. She smiled gently before sighing as the water dropped and the weak spell lost its power.

Eria often wondered why she had been given the "gift." She had been thirteen when, in winter, her only friend had fallen into a roaring river. She had made the river to sweep her friend out of its clutches.

This show of magic had been her awakening, but from that moment forward she had ben unable to use magic without a Focus. Some say that this show of strength had sapped her magic until it became weak. Eria knew she had the talent to become a magi and maybe even a powerful one, but she didn't want to. All she wanted to do was to be herself, with her family and friends. She sighed, she knew that she should go below and talk to people, but she found she didn't want to.

They were all going to fight each other and she didn't want to become friends with someone she might have to hurt later. She smiled softly as the spray was dashed into her face. She was a Magi, and she had a destiny to for fill. A destiny written for her as it has been written for everyone else. Eria turned from the deck and moved below deck, silently weaving her way though the groups until she reached her own bunk. She lay there, with her eyes shut as she clutched her snowflake necklace.

Eria, a Magi with power over water. Eria, a little scared girl who didn't know where to turn. She blinked away the tears. Suddenly she missed home and wished she had never been given the "Gift"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Anahid of Jaidev

Anahid has always considered herself a dreamer. With only one's thoughts to talk to, it isn't much of a surprise. However her uniqueness has only distanced herself more from society. Surprisingly, most Vasileians are sociable people, gathering in small circles so everyone can see each other's hands as they discuss the daily happenings. Unsurprisingly, this aspect of their culture initiated coteries and Anahid was never included in one.

In a world where communication is a necessity, Anahid is an outcast. Her alchemistic table is the only thing that is always there for her. Physically her mother is present, but not mentally. Almost everything she has stored in her brain was learned through experience.

For instance, those white lights glittering above, shimmering sapphire and gently illuminating the depths of space, are called stars. Professor Mantior taught her about the

stars and the constellations and the vast emptiness that was just beyond her reach.

Leith of Jaidev taught her about the dangers of the water. If he wouldn't have stepped off that bridge and sank into the frothing rapids of the Proxy, Anahid might have taken a swim in the endless ocean surrounding her and sank just as quickly as Leith did.

If not for general life experience, Anahid wouldn't have lasted a day on her own, especially as a Necromancer. The newspapers taught her of her dark talents and how her disgusting brethren are being hunted for their treason. However, they never once said why her. Anahid did not choose this life. This dark and treacherous path was not of her free will. Nevertheless, Necromancy is not to be explored and she abides by that rule.

Anahid of Jaidev is, and will always be, an alchemist.

Satisfied with this inner realization, Anahid readjusts her robes and studies the fabric, coloured dark purple for the Kingdom of Halyin. This will be the third time she has stopped to exam her robes, but it continues to take her breath away. Royal blue, the color of Vasileio, was chosen for the intricate artwork, woven in swirling patterns representing the rolling hills and snowcapped mountains of her land.

She misses the simplistic life of Jaidev. This journey is going to be quite a thrill and if Anahid is going to be honest with herself, she doesn't really want to be here. She doesn't fit into this group of prestigious mages.

Even now the wooden planks below her are creaking from the sounds of a massive party where the others are literally soaking up this opportunity. Looking inside a window, Anahid holds back a giggle. Drunken men and women hobble around the quarters, intense amounts of Ithica puffing out from their pipes and shrouding the entire room in a veil of white. Every once in awhile she spots a Vasileian, miraculously blending in with the crowds of Halyin citizens, but she can never envision herself amongst them.

Eyes glinting with amusement, Anahid returns her attention to the placid waters. The ravaging gaze of a crewman finds the nape of her neck, but she decides to ignore it. He wouldn't lay a hand on one of the Guardians' chosen. For the time being, she shall be treated as royalty. This brings up another question: Out of all of the talented alchemists, why her?

Anahid's immediate thought is that they know. All the Necromancers caught in the past ten years have aged forty and up, but a young'un couldn't be too rare. The Guardians could know, but then why hadn't they sent an assassin to execute her? She wants to dismiss the fact like she's only special because she is a Necromancer and believe she was chosen for her alchemical powers, but Anahid knows better than to lie to herself.

What she needs is a distraction. These negative thoughts are clouding her vision and she needs to be rid of them for the coming events. Although her morals scream against it, Anahid pulls down her neckline and practices batting her eyes.

"I'm looking for a good time and I believe you can provide, kind sir."

"Yes ma'am. Right this way."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Enzo of Siyamak

The ship was his worst nightmare. Enzo had been in confined spaces before; when he was six his older brother Arden thought it would be funny to lock him in a wardrobe. Now, he may as well have been back inside that cramped little wardrobe... along with twenty-three other people. People who happened to have very active minds, thinking and worrying and plotting a million different things at once.

Normally Enzo was good at blocking out the thoughts he didn't want to hear, which usually meant all of them, but it wasn't working this time. Perhaps his own nervousness was getting in the way, but no matter the reason, the plethora of voices in his head made the situation a million times worse. He twisted his worn string between shaking copper fingers as he sat in the most isolated corner of the ship deck he could find. He wasn't looking forward to trying to sleep that night, especially since he was sure it would be even worse below deck.

A pretty woman with long brown hair and bright green eyes bounced toward him. Her thoughts were much calmer than the others, and death wasn't among them, so clearly she wasn't a competitor. She came to a halt in front of him with a cheerful smile. She held a feather pen and scroll of paper in her interestingly marked hands. "Hello, I'm Elswyth, daughter of Idessa! I'm just checking everyone in. Tell me your name."

There was something condescending in her otherwise friendly tone, but Enzo couldn't really pinpoint what it was. He stood, nodded to her politely, and gestured his name.

Elswyth frowned, 'Oh great, he's a little Cyprus.' To her credit, her smile remained perfectly in place, although she spoke much slower the next time she opened her mouth. The Lirimani Guardian apparently didn't understand that just because Enzo didn't speak, it didn't mean he couldn't understand speech. "Can you please point to your name on this list?"

Enzo quickly scanned the scroll she held out to him and pressed a finger to his name. Elswyth nodded and walked away without a thank you, which Enzo assumed was a Lirima thing.

He dropped back into his position at the corner of the deck and wrapped his arms around his knees, which were pulled tightly to his chest. Enzo wasn't a fighter. He never had been. Whenever a confrontation arose between he and his siblings, he would always concede before it got physical. Mostly because Arden was stubborn and never drop the subject otherwise, but also because Enzo knew he could never win.

'I can't believe not a single person brought a pet! Am I really expected to take this whole trip without a single animal to hug? That's two days!' Elswyth paced past him, her thoughts pushed past all the others swirling in the young Vasileian's mind. But as soon as she passed, the other, less pleasant thoughts returned.

'I wonder what it's like to actually kill someone... wow, that's a creepy thought. Well, I guess it's okay since we won't get punished for killing someone in the competition...' This was a girl's thought. Probably the pretty Craora chewing her lip a few feet away from him.

'Don't get sick, don't get sick, don't get sick!' This was a guy, and it wasn't difficult for Enzo to pinpoint who it belonged to. The Lirimani boy was looking paler than average, and he was eyeing the edge of the ship.

Maybe going below deck would be better? After all, everyone seemed to be gathered on deck at the moment. Enzo tied his string to one of the short braids that hung in his peripheral vision before standing. He gripped the wooden railing behind him to keep from toppling over as the ship lurched over a particularly large swell.

The Lirimani boy ran to the edge and hurled over the side.

Enzo wrinkled his nose. He twisted his fingers into a spell-casting symbol and projected soothing thoughts at the sick boy. He hoped it was enough to at least keep him from vomiting again.

Enzo climbed down the ladder that led to the ships interior. He would find a sleeping quarters and lock himself inside, maybe press a pillow to his ears, though that had never helped in the past. Still, the multitude of voices were steadily giving him a headache, and he was desperate enough to try anything.

Unfortunately there didn't appear to be individual rooms on this ship, apart from the room that was meant for the Guardian, and Enzo certainly wasn't going in there. There were two large sleeping chambers, one for males and one for females. Luckily, there were only two other people in the males' section, and both seemed to be asleep.

Enzo moved to a corner and resumed the same position he'd been in on the deck. The pillows here seemed to be connected to the down sleep-sacks covering the floor, and so his original idea was not feasible. He untied the string from his braid and work it between his fingers. Maybe if he focused his attention on something else, the voices of his fellow competitors would fade away.

Enzo's mind went, as it usually did, to his family. He was one of five children. His brother Arden was his elder by two years, though Arden acted like it was a much larger gap. Enzo was next, then three years later came his younger sister Finnevera, then eleven year old Tiber. Lastly was cute little Winoa, who recently turned five.

The whole family had come to the port in Craorag to see Enzo off, even his father, who had been bedridden since Enzo was a child. They had all signed their goodbyes, even Winoa, who was practicing for her vows. No one in his family was particularly affectionate, but Enzo never doubted their love for him. Though maybe that was because he could read their minds.

It had always been strange for Enzo. He heard his parent's voices daily through their thoughts, though they had taken their vows of silence long before he was born. He never told them that reading minds was a part of his Psychomancy abilities. Enzo didn't want them to feel uncomfortable around him.

He tied the string around his wrist this time, and moved to one of the unoccupied sleep-sacks. It wasn't especially comfortable, but it was better than sleeping on nothing but the wooden ship floor. He closed his eyes, and after a few minutes of shifting around he fell asleep.

His dream was peaceful. A memory of a family meal when he was younger, when his father was still healthy, and both Finnie and Tiber had yet to take their vows. Finnevera had been an extremely talkative child. She loved telling stories, and singing, and sometimes shouting for no reason at all except to make their mother jump.

She ended up not having a Gift, just like their father, though Enzo often wondered if she would have had Nominomancy had she not taken the vow.

Suddenly his dream shifted to one of pain and darkness, filled with faces he didn't recognize. This jolted him awake, and when he was able to calm down he realized that all the sleeping area's around him were filled, and moonlight poured in through one of the small portholes lining the wall. He'd slept for longer than he thought, it was the middle of the night now.

Enzo also realized that the nightmare had not been his own. He sat upright and moved his hands and fingers in precise motions to cast a calming spell over the entire room. Sleep was important, and Enzo hated to think of what might happen to someone who spent their time on the ship restless once it came to the Trials.

Once he was sure that all the nightmares had been chased away from his fellow competitors, Enzo laid back down. However, no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't fall back asleep. The nightmare and the unfamiliar faces kept popping into his thoughts. He ended up on his side, staring out the porthole has the sky slowly lightened.

Too bad his magic didn't work on himself.