Page 31 of Cursed By Gold

I sigh and rub my temples. The whole point of doing this set of trials is to set up tests that would help me potentially identify the thief that tried to steal the Bodian Crown. Everything in them has been set up to give the thief an opportunity to give themself away with the skills and behaviors that I saw them have. It seems I have two possible culprits—Scarlet and Rose. Neither fit the profile of a skilled thief, yet neither can be discounted. Both fit the physical description of the woman I seek. Darius'sperception of Scarlet could be colored by his desire to deceive her. I will have to watch them both closely and make my own judgments.

For now, I proceed with caution. Give neither woman undue attention that might tip them off. But I keep a close eye on their behavior and progress through the tournament.

The true thief still remains hidden among these other skilled competitors. But I am determined to root them out, one way or another.

With a sigh, I set about compiling the points from this first challenge. The game has finally begun, and so too has my hunt for the woman who kissed me.

The Second Challenge

Scarlet

Irub my fingers over the rankings posted on the board, counting the names above mine. Fifth place. Not good enough.

A trumpet echoes from the dining hall. Ignoring the scores, I push through the crowd of contestants, curious about the noise. The contestants assemble in the dining hall, but I focus on the dais where King Remme stands, surveying the crowd.

Every inch of his being speaks authority and confidence. His face remains still, not giving away any of his inner thoughts. A commanding presence seems to radiate from him; it's something I can only aspire to emulate. It's astounding how he can always remain so sure of himself

King Remme begins speaking, his voice carrying easily over the gathered crowd. "For your next challenge, you will enter the forest and make your way to the caves hidden within. There, you will search for artifacts. These artifacts will match you to yourteam for the next trial. Forming effective teams is essential for success."

Excited murmurs ripple through the crowd. Those who have formed alliances exchange knowing glances.

King Remme raises a hand, instantly quieting the room. "You will have one hour to prepare before entering the forest. Gather any supplies you feel you may need."

A barely perceptible smile touches his lips, but there's a sharp edge to his words. "The challenges will become increasingly more difficult from here on out. Those who prevail will prove themselves worthy competitors. But be warned—not all who enter the forest will return. Only the most skilled, and perhaps the luckiest, will claim victory."

His eyes scan the crowd, meeting my gaze for a long moment. A chill runs down my spine.

King Remme's voice takes on a more solemn tone. "If there is anyone who wishes to withdraw from the competition, now is the time to do so with no shame or punishment."

The room falls silent, thick with tension. No one moves.

King Remme nods, satisfied. "Very well. You have one hour to prepare. From here on out, everything is at stake." His final words seem directed at me, and I meet his stare unflinchingly.

With that, King Remme descends from the dais and exits the hall, leaving the competitors to contemplate the challenge that lies before them—and the unknown threats that await in the forest

Rose approaches me. "We should team up," she says reluctantly.

I eye her warily. "For now."

Pondering what I should bring with me, I return to my room. I grab the silver needle and throwing dart from my belongings and tuck them carefully into my competition leathers. I won't failthis time. I refuse to walk away empty-handed like before. This challenge will be different. I have to win.

"Planning on poisoning other competitors?" Rose's derisive voice breaks the silence.

I turn to face her. "These are for defending myself," I say firmly.

She chuckles. "From what? The forest animals?"

Anger flares inside me, but I tamp it down. "From whatever threats arise," I say calmly.

Rose shakes her head in disdain. "Suit yourself. Don't come crying to me when your conscience eats at you."

I meet her gaze steadily. "Then it seems we understand each other."

Rose makes a show of examining her nails. "For now." Skepticism laces her tone.

My fists clench at my sides, but I refuse to lose my temper. "We have a challenge to prepare for." I meet her eyes. "Are you ready?"

Rose smirks. "I've been ready since the beginning." Without another word, she sweeps from the room.

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