A Fate so Wicked: Into the Shadows, Book One by K.E. Austin

Author:K.E. Austin [Austin, K.E.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Gilded Ink Press
Published: 2024-03-05T00:00:00+00:00

Nineteen

Apungent scent wafted out of the coliseum’s marble doors and up my nose, burning my nostrils. There were no trees. No mazes made of mirrors.

Only five tables—donning three gold chalices each—were arranged in the middle of the arena in a perfect circle. One for each of us.

A wall of potions and exotic plants flanked the side wall, wooden barrels with ancient lettering on the other.

Talon’s arm brushed against my shoulder as we stepped inside and sent a wave of goosebumps down my skin. “You’ve been quiet.” It was the first time he’d spoken since he arrived at my bedchamber this morning. After last night it seemed we were back to disliking each other and only speaking when it was convenient. Perfect. It wasn’t like I needed the distraction. And that’s all he was, a beautiful distraction.

“What’s going on inside that head of yours?”

I didn’t know why he cared. It was clear my humanness was an annoyance for him. Letting out a breath, I let it go. Our argument, the tension, everything that hindered my ability to focus on the trial ahead. Everything that wasn’t important.

“How I’m trying not to vomit.” My nose scrunched from the harsh scent. I couldn’t put my finger on it. It was harsh and synthetic. Unlike anything I’d ever smelled before.

It didn’t appear like there would be any duels or knife fights, nor any physical combat—all my training so far had yet to prepare me for whatever this was.

I fidgeted on my feet, trying not to panic.

“It’s a glamor to throw off your senses. My best guess? One or more of those chalices are mixed with poison,” he said.

I squinted, straining to see the dark liquid inside each cup. Must be nice to have perfect fae vision.

“The king is a notorious alchemist. Some would argue he’s the best in the realm. It wouldn’t be the first time he’s incorporated it into a trial.”

I nodded my understanding, struggling not to show any fear. “How—how am I supposed to know which one is lethal?”

“You won’t. You’ll have to use your best judgment.”

“So, I’m going to have to guess?”

His face was unreadable, however, his forehead creased.

“I’m going to have to guess,” I repeated. “And pray for the best, aren’t I?”

Talon nodded once. “Yes.”

Awesome. I thumbed the ring on my finger, keeping my attention ahead. “Well, here goes nothing. May Lady Luck be on my side.”

Talon squeezed my hand as I started down the stairs—his warm touch a welcome reprieve to my cold skin. I froze mid-step, but his hand was gone as quickly as I could blink. If it wasn’t for the lingering heat that remained, I wouldn’t have realized it happened at all.

“Your instinct will tell you what to do. Don’t second guess yourself.”

I clenched my hand into a fist by my side. I knew I was testing my fate with each step I took, almost tripping when I peeked at the board of names.

I didn’t know which was worse: another name crossed off the list or my name in bold at the top.

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