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“It has.”

Halen turns to me. “I hate to interrupt, but it looks like your driver is heading this way. Oh, and for what it’s worth, I’m in total agreement with Bash.”

“Thanks.”

He kisses my cheek. “Keep us in mind if things get hard. Picture us in the stands screaming your name.”

I force a smile. “Thanks. But seriously, if things get hard? I’ve heard several people mention a sea dragon.”

Bash gives me his crooked smile. “Those things don’t exist.”

“People used to think the same thing about Queen Sirena until I basically turned into her.”

He runs his fingertips along my jawline and gazes into my eyes. “You didn't turn into her. You’re Marra Ayers, and you have your own strengths and powers. Did she have the Ayers power? Did she have Halen and me on her side? No, she didn’t. You’re going to be greater than she ever was—so much so that people will forget all about her. Thousands of years in the future, people will whisper rumors about you alone.”

“I think you give me too much credit.”

He starts to say something, but is interrupted by the driver. “The royal car is ready for you, your highness.”

Halen looks at me with wide eyes. Bash gives me a quick kiss, then pats his shirt over his newest tattoo.

“Can we go with her?” Halen asks.

The driver shakes his head no. “She must travel alone.”

I grab a bag packed with things I’ll need and say goodbye to them before following the driver out to the parking lot. Students wish me good luck as I pass by. They smile, but I can see the worry in their eyes. Even Earwyn has lost her permanent smug expression.

Regardless, I hold my head high and focus on everything I’ve learned about battling with my trident and how to use the Ayers power. I’m going to need every last bit of it to get through today.

The driver opens the door for me. I climb in, hoping my parents will be inside.

They're not. The entire back of the car is empty except for my trident, which is lying on one of the seats. At least I hope it’s mine. I’m in trouble if it’s just some random weapon.

I am yours.

Relief washes through me. I wrap my arms around it but don’t find its warmth as comforting and energizing as usual.

The engine roars to life and gravel crunches under the tires. We’re heading straight for the arena.

My pulse pounds in my ears. I take a deep breath and study the weapon. “You’ve been through this before, right? The old stories are true?”

Yes. Queen Sirena and I beat them together.

“What can I expect?”

To be challenged more than ever before.

“Anything more specific? Am I going to have to face a sea dragon?”

I have no idea what you’re going to face. Your tests may be completely different from hers.

“Did she have to face a sea dragon?”

Yes.

“Wonderful.”

She defeated it.