LYRA

The contestants' common room was already packed when I arrived. Girls filled the space in clusters, their voices blending into a hum of speculation and gossip. I took a seat near the back, close to the door, and tried to make myself invisible.

High Priestess Moraine entered with her usual commanding presence making the room fell silent instantly.

"Beginning today, you will receive instruction in the skills expected of a queen," she announced. "Etiquette, diplomacy, court protocol. These ...