Dahlia stepped closer to the machine and rested her hands on her hips, eyes shining with interest.
She looked back at the crowded cafeteria and smiled brightly. "Alright, my good juniors."
That smile made several people tense up.
"Let's start choosing who the two lucky ones are today."
The word "lucky" did not help at all.
A wave of groans spread through the room.
"You call that lucky?"
"Senior Sister, please have mercy."
"I suddenly feel sick."
Dahlia giggled and placed her hand on the machine. "Relax. It's all part of training."
She glanced at Garion. "I'm spinning it, right?"
Garion nodded. "Go ahead."
Dahlia took a deep breath and pulled the lever.
The machine hummed loudly. Light flashed inside the slot as names spun rapidly.
Several disciples clasped their hands together.
Others looked away.
A few stared intensely, like they could influence the result through sheer will.
Clara whispered, "I can feel their fear from here."
