Deviating from the original plot

Chapter seventy-three

Two hours later, the heavy doors creaked open and the guards stepped in, their presence sharp and unyielding. Without a word, they escorted the women through the corridors and out into the barracks training fields.

Cassius was already waiting at the centre, dressed in sleek training attire that fit him like armour.

"The convicts have arrived," he drawled, voice dripping with arrogance. "Might as well savour your last few hours in the open air. Far better than rotting in a cramped cell."

Victoria's brow arched as her eyes swept the field. "Shouldn't I be given something more fitting to wear?"

At her words, two guards exchanged glances and gave curt nods. One stepped forward, gesturing for her to follow. They led her toward a side chamber where the training uniforms were kept.

"If you had only agreed, none of this would be happening, Lady Evelyn," Cassius sneered. "And now you—and your companions—have the gall to mock me by issuing this challenge. Pathetic." He let his smile turn cold. "I won't overly humiliate her... after all, there's always the guillotine at dawn."

"You know what, I'd rather just beat him myself," Evelyn muttered under her breath.

Celeste nodded. "Agreed."

A few minutes later, the sound of boots striking the dirt announced Victoria's return. She stepped back onto the field, now dressed in a fitted training uniform of dark blue, her hair tied back neatly.

The guards formed a loose ring around the field, whispering amongst themselves. Most looked amused, certain the duel would be nothing but a humiliating spectacle for the three women. Evelyn and Celeste were ushered to the edge of the ring, their anxious faces betraying the weight of what was at stake.

"Remember," Cassius said, "one victory is all you need. But that victory... will never come."

Victoria spoke annoyedly. "You talk too much."

A low murmur stirred among the guards, their unease pricking the air. For the first time, Cassius's smirk slipped, his expression tightening into a frown.

"Very well," he said coldly. "Let's begin."

One of the guards stepped forward, positioning himself between Victoria and the prince. His voice carried clearly across the training grounds.

"There will be three challenges to determine the victor. The first: a javelin throw. The second: a weighted endurance race. And the third..." He paused for effect, glancing at both competitors. "...a duel."

Victoria's eyes widened. "A duel?" she repeated, incredulous.

Cassius gave a dismissive chuckle. "A fair fight—with fists. I'll spare you the sword, since you clearly can't handle one. Consider yourself lucky but that doesn't mean you will win."

"One round at a time," the guard announced. "First event: the javelin throw. Move to your stations."

Victoria fell into step with Evelyn and Celeste, heart thudding against her ribs. "I'm supposed to duel the prince," she murmured, more to herself than anyone else.

Evelyn's face lit with hope. "That's...actually good. You can do this."

Victoria's breath hitched. "No. What if I hit him too hard?" She swallowed. "I can't control the force of my attacks yet. If I put him in a coma or worse, kill him, we'll all be hauled to the guillotine at dawn."

Celeste's jaw tightened. She shot a fierce look at the prince, then back to Victoria. "Then don't aim for his head. I guess."

Evelyn placed a steadying hand on Victoria's shoulder. "We'll get through this. Just relax, okay?"