The trumpets blared again, long and sharp, cutting through the air before silence fell like a heavy curtain over the Vortellion estate. The crowd held its breath, their anticipation was almost like a living thing.
A single masked man stepped forward onto the stage, his presence commanding. His mask was carved with a permanent smile, grotesque and mocking, his robe embroidered in gold. He raised his arms, and the crowd answered with deafening cheers, their voices shaking the arena.
"Lords and Ladies!" His slick and theatrical voice slid out effortlessly as it dripped with showmanship. "Welcome to the grand Vortellion Game!"
The stands erupted with noise, nobles stomping their feet repeatedly. Some waved jewelled fans, others tossed coins into the air, their excitement a feverish wave. The noise grated against Rin's ears, each cheer felt like a dagger twisting in his chest.
