Chapter 3 - Part b

[Author's Notes] No, you're not seeing double. I decided to insert more into this scene so I am reposting the last paragraph. That way, you won't get lost. I'll be putting in the trio later and possibly rewriting that whole thing since I hated it anyway.

A shifting in the atmosphere and the quieting down of the crowd indicated to her that the second part of the competiton was coming up. This was the one the crowds were waiting for, the one the executions had built up to. A shudder serpentined its way up her spine.

Fresh pungent smells filled the cell as one by one, the slaves realized what was imminent. Passionate prayers to various gods were whispered desperately. Tristan's own breathing quickened but as she subconsciously curled her left fingers to stroke the embedded stone, she felt a serenity descend from her head down through the rest of her body. Glancing about, she saw Arite with a small crowd of young toughs around, laughing and gesturing at her and Tiny.

A weapon! I need something if we're to see this through. She closed her eyes to focus on what she saw on the field. Something had tugged at her memory. Relaxing and focusing, she took a deep breath and pictured things strewn about the field. What were they? Clenching her eyes shut, she saw them. Boards! With nails sticking out of them.

[Author's Notes] Damnit! I had written this part earlier and lost it. Serves me right for not saving. And I wrote it better. Let's hope I can capture this better on the next go-round.

She didn't have to wonder why they were there. All she knew now, was she had to have one. So, then the plan was to grab a board and then maneuver Tiny into a corner to protect him. Gods, what are we waiting for? Let's just get it over with!

[Author's Notes] My sentiments exactly. God, this is awful writing. I am not there. I need to be there to write this and I am not there. Shit. I'll have a lot more time tomorrow. *sighs*