The Competitors

The unexpected sight of her father stirred a whirlwind of emotions within Shinta, catching her off guard. Her heart raced, and she found it increasingly difficult to draw a steady breath. Shinta struggled to maintain her composure until a soft voice broke through the chaos.

"Focus, Shinta… concentrate."

It was Annara's voice, transmitted through the tiny familiar nestled in Shinta's ear. From her concealed vantage point in the corner of the hall, Annara offered counsel, her presence a reassuring beacon amidst the swirling emotions threatening to overwhelm Shinta.

"Yes, Auntie..." Shinta's voice quavered slightly as she acknowledged Annara's guidance.

As the event commenced, with the overseer delivering speeches from the stage, Shinta gradually regained her composure. She slowly moved towards the special area at the front of the hall, where the half-blood acolytes had assembled.