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The gates creaked open, and two guards approached.
"One of you, step forward. Our Champion is coming. Prepare yourselves—grab a weapon!"
They offered a selection of rusty arms.
Elayne reached for a sword, her calm, sorrowful eyes meeting theirs.
"I haven't wielded a sword in ten years."
Gripping the hilt, she stepped forward.
"I'll go first."
"Fine, go ahead. Lord Blazer instructed us to send you in first anyway."
As the gate shut behind her, Elayne walked into the center of the arena. Her bare feet sank into the white sand, her heightened senses absorbing its texture.
"Who is that zombie?"
"For a filthy zombie, she's got a pretty face."
"I agree—she's certainly unique."
"What a strange aura. She gives off a disgusting vibe."
"Have the seats not been cleansed? Why are there mushrooms everywhere?"
