Dawn broke over Clearwater with light that seemed calculated to emphasize the day's significance. The town had transformed overnight, streets filling with activity as people who'd traveled from across the region prepared for the tournament and gathering. Temporary stalls appeared throughout the market district, merchants recognizing opportunity when they saw it. The smell of cooking food drifted through morning air, vendors providing breakfast to competitors and spectators alike.
Raze woke early despite the late night, his internal clock refusing to allow extended rest when important obligations loomed. Bephe was already awake, the small apex predator sitting at the window overlooking Clearwater with a visible heart pulsing steadily. Amber eyes tracked movement throughout the town with intensity suggesting the creature was cataloging potential threats despite there being no obvious danger.
