Forsaken Blood [Weekly Updates]

Fifteen

"And so we come to the concluding round of the tourney!"

The king's voice carried across the open arena. The bleachers were emptier than usual, but Rochelle noticed that the entire court was in attendance.

She wondered what had gotten into them but her thoughts were broken when her uncle continued his address.

"As we have some special circumstances today, I believe we can bend the rules a little. The Jadus won't be protecting anyone as they are all busy elsewhere so I advice caution to the participants. But before the actual games I believe we can have a small round between the women."

This caused a ripple of excited whispers to go out among the crowd and Rochelle also turned excitedly to Charlotte. The princess just shrugged in answer as they both moved closer to the edge of the pavilion.

"My niece really wanted to participate in the tourney and I believe I was too harsh in not letting her take part. I hope this makes up for it!"

She rolled her eyes and nodded indulgently to her uncle. He knew full well that she was never very good with archery but she was getting excited nevertheless.

"Not many women would know how to handle the bow so assistance is allowed. The round I believe can be opened by my daughter."

He motioned for Charlotte to take the arena which she did. Her cousin confidently strode to stand a distance away from the target and after putting on the arm guard, took aim.

Everyone held their breath as the string was pulled and with a loud twang the arrow flew straight and lodged itself directly in the centre.