Kermit's POV
Something wasn't right. Tonia should have been here by now.
When she claimed those ridiculous cramps and insisted on staying behind, warning bells should have gone off in my head immediately. Tonia understood better than anyone how crucial this moment was for me. She would never allow me to face this alone, regardless of how terrible she felt. How could I have been so careless to miss the obvious signs?
The final trial was about to commence. Chad and I received our summons to the platform.
I expected him to show some nervousness, but his demeanor radiated pure confidence. As if he possessed knowledge that remained hidden from me. While Chairman Bristol delivered his opening remarks about the ultimate test called 'The Strength Of A King,' my gaze swept frantically through the assembled crowd and across the elevated platform. Still no trace of Tonia anywhere.
