The Aspect of Essence (The Aelfyn Archives, #1)

by Samantha Amstutz

Vesryn’s jaw clenched, rendering his features sharper than a stiletto’s blade. “We will have our own Essence Tournament held at Centarya’s Coliseum.” Serenna scoffed at the announcement. A tournament? She wanted to laugh. I thought we were here to prepare for war. Not provide…entertainment! This was worse than being thrown at the wraith. This was a mockery of their purpose to protect these so-called nobles. “Each magister and magus may sponsor one initiate as their champion in the dueling games,” the prince said, pacing the length of the dais with the lethal grace of a panther. His heeled boots clicked on the marble, echoing in the silent hall. “At the end of every season, Centarya will host a weeklong competition for the Kyansari courts. It is up to each instructor to train their champions and prepare them for the tournament.” Vesryn sliced through the aristocrats’ excited whispers as he turned to the gathered recruits, effectively dismissing the Kyansari attendants with his back. “Since Centarya is under my command, I’d like to use these council-mandated games to at least serve some purpose beyond providing entertainment and gambling.” Serenna’s brows rose in disbelief. She nearly admired how Vesryn had no reservations about making his disdain obvious. But she frowned, considering why he didn’t share in their enthusiasm. The tournament did pale against the threat of the wraith and she wondered why the citizens didn’t seem concerned with the monsters attacking their city....