Cassandra sniffled now and then. Siroos wished to console her but he wasn't sure what words to say to her without hurting her further. She needed space to calm down from the experience she had.
Siroos sat with one leg straightened and the other bent. His arm rested on his knee while his upset eyes remained sealed on Cassandra. Every small cry that left her throat was like a whetted blade that slashed away the layers of his skin, dug through his bones and jagged his heart.
Hours went by when they were finally called for the final match.
The shadows of evening had begun to elongate but floating lanterns and torches lighted up the whole arena. Huge fiery cauldrons had been placed in the stands as well to keep the place glowing.
