It was some sort of waiting area and a big solid silver bar gate on the opposite side opened into the ring. A stone bench sat right next to the gate.
The walls were gruff brown stones that gave off a cave feel. Sleek stones covered the floor and a carpet by the white sofas broke the cold ambience a bit.
There was a big screen TV that displayed the promotional image of this claiming, with a table displaying many snacks. The bottle of champagne caught my eyes.
I plopped down on the sofa, and Dad popped the champagne. “A bit, to celebrate your birthday.”
I nodded.
Dad waited with me and the time ticked off slowly. He spoke about my parents and how proud they were today. He spoke about my ascension and begged me that when I see my father, not to be afraid. To go to him. He gave up everything so that I could live.
Tears welled up in my eyes. I might see him, or I might join both of them after today.
The crowd outside filled up fast and music played from the background.
Five neared as my body shut down. My thoughts failed me as I wasn’t ready for today. I kept seeing the beast tearing me apart. It wasn’t a simulator. This was the real deal, and that beasty was going to do everything in his power not to get claimed today.
I looked at my watch. There were only thirty minutes left. Dad smiled as he saw my bracelet. He took my hand softly in his. “The color suits you.”
I chuckled.
He kissed me on my temple. “I have to go, otherwise I fear I will never make it to my seat to watch the claim of the century, but know that I’m in that audience, rooting the hardest. Have faith in yourself and your dragon, okay?”
I nodded.
My father left and my heart pounded like crazy. I couldn’t do this. There was no way that I would succeed today. The door opened, and Lucian entered. I stared at him with enormous eyes.
“Elena, come on. It’s your abilities. You will be okay.”
I shook my head. I needed Blake. He had a way to put everything in great perception for me and everyone that entered through the door wasn’t him.
I paced in the room and clutched my hair. “I…. can’t….”
“Stop, stop.” Lucian stopped my pacing. “You’ll be okay. His abilities can’t hurt you. They are going to set you free. I promise.”
“Why does everyone make promises they’ll never keep in this place?” I yelled.
“That’s harsh. We don’t make promises lightly. Who didn’t keep their promises?”
“Forget it.”
“No, I want to know who?”
I closed my eyes and sat down on the stone bench close to the gate. The murmur of the audience put me on edge. It was useless to even speak about it. It could only put his life in danger. The Rubicon was near and they all have enhanced hearing.
He came to sit next to me. “Speak to me.”
“Blake, okay?”
“Blake?” he asked. “He can be an idiot, Elena, but he doesn’t make promises lightly, especially if he can’t push through.”
I wiped a stray tear. “It doesn’t matter.”
“No, it does. What did he promise you?”
“It’s stupid.”
“It’s not as if it upsets you like that.”
