Chapter 44: At the Banquet

A richly patterned carpet, intricate and bright with color, was spread across the floor of the tent. On top of it, dishes were set out on great platters, the food looking far too delicious. I wanted to eat. Quickly. That was what I was thinking as I pressed a blade against my right thumb. A shallow cut, sharp and clean. Blood welled up, swelling like a bead and spilling out. Rikan did the same, biting a blade into his finger to draw blood. We both let our blood drip into a cup. The crimson…