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A shiver run down Kara’s back. She’d told Vahn she could do this but standing here now, with twelve other hopefuls all desperate to be the Zhaalini, doubt was creeping in.

She glanced at Layahn, as vicious as a rattlesnake and highly motivated to kick human butt. If she ended up facingherin unarmed combat, she wouldn’t be able to hold back because the Vraxian certainly wouldn’t.

General Solarun continued.

“From today, to ensure your safety and to protect you from any interference during the trials, there will be guards posted outside your rooms. This is merely a standard security measure. You should not let it distract you.”

Ela didn’t look at Kara directly but it was clear to everyone what the security threat was: any disgruntled Vraxian outraged at the idea of a human taking part inshaa’baara.

“Great. So because ofherthe rest of us are essentially under house arrest,” sniped Layahn. Ela raised an eyebrow.

“You object to our procedures, Lady Vantrax? Perhaps you’d like to make a formal complaint to your uncle?”

Kara rejoiced internally as the Potential squirmed.

“No, it’s fine. I appreciate the palace protecting our safety.”

“Very glad to hear it.” Ela turned her steely gaze back to the others. “You may use this training room to prepare, exercise, spar, anything you feel you need to do before the challenges begin. Or you can just rest. The first round will be in two days. You will be given precise details then. May good fortune walk with you.”

She turned and left.

The Potentials looked at each other, uncertain what to do.

“You want to run?” Kara asked Vysh. “I don’t know about you but I’ve spent the last few days eating and sleeping. I could do with some exercise.”

“Me too. Let’s do some laps.”

“I’ve been training since we got here,” said Layahn superciliously. “I have no need for further preparation.”

She stalked to the exit.

“Don’t let the door hit you on the way out,” called Kara. Vysh snorted with laughter, hastily straightening her face when Layahn turned to glare at them. She pulled Kara towards the running track.

“Come on, let’s run.”

Vysh started jogging along the outer perimeter of the arena. Her long legs covered the distance quickly and it took Kara a few moments to catch up. Vysh slowed fractionally to ease the pace.

“You know, you shouldn’t antagonize Layahn, Kara. If you draw her in the final challenge she’ll try to eviscerate you.”

“I thought lethal force wasn’t allowed?”

“No, but accidents happen.”

“Great. Good to know. Anyway, you’re assuming I’ll get that far. What about you?”

“What about me?”

“Well, what if we both get to the final round? And face each other?”

Vysh shrugged.

“That won’t be a problem.”

“Why not?”

“I don’t intend to pass the final round.”

She sped up, leaving Kara in her wake. But Kara wasn’t about to give up. She cut the corner on the track and drew level again.