Page 459 of Axis of Fire

A faint smile touched Eugene's lips.

"...you'll discover soon enough."

"How many trials are there altogether?" I asked quietly, glancing at the others who had instinctively gathered around me.

"Twelve?" Pria suggested uncertainly.

She stopped abruptly when something clinked beside us.

"Sorry," Gianna said, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear as she bent to pick up two scrolls that had slipped onto the marble floor—hers and Rosalie's.

"Did yours feel... slippery?"

"Actually, that would make sense," Taylor said, completely ignoring her question as he returned to Pria's theory. "I heard the map was designed by the beings from the Realm of Light. Logic is one of their greatest strengths."

"The Realm of Light is ruled by Virgo," Aars reminded me.

"You're doomed."

I let out a quiet sigh, silently thanking—and cursing—Aars for his version of encouragement.

"Your trial begins..."

Eugene's voice echoed one last time across the courtyard.

"...now."

Everyone standing on the marble platform crossed their forearms over their chests and lowered their heads.

The gesture looked strangely ceremonial.

Noticing that everyone from our group had placed their right hand over their heart, I quickly mirrored them.

I was terrified of what was about to happen.

So I let myself feel that fear...

hoping it would drown out the pain burning in my throat—

and behind my eyes—

as I slowly closed them.

******

When I opened my eyes, towering trees surrounded me, their branches blocking out the sunlight.

I spun around, slowly turning in place, stunned by how quickly—and effortlessly—I had been transported here.

I still wasn't used to... teleportation.

Realizing how much easier it was to move than before, I looked down at my outfit.

My black gown had vanished, leaving behind an elegant combat uniform inspired by the dress itself—a fitted bodice with a daring neckline and a short, flowing skirt resting low on my hips. Madame Zhivorzhinette, apparently, had no intention of sacrificing style. My arms and legs were covered in a tougher, more flexible fabric.

Then my gaze dropped to the map that had unfurled at my feet.

There were only six markers.