"In politics, knowledge is a weapon sharper than any blade."
"Technical delay," Professor Hale announced. "Arena sensors require calibration. Fifteen minutes."
The crowd groaned. Complained. But nobody questioned it. Safety protocols were strict. Mandatory.
I didn't believe it for a second.
Through the bond, I felt Darius's suspicion matching mine. This wasn't random. Someone had arranged this delay.
Marcus stood beside me. Tense. Ready. "That's convenient timing."
"Too convenient."
Gideon and Chen were across the arena. Gideon looked annoyed. Chen impassive. Neither seemed to know what was happening.
A hand touched my elbow. Light. Deliberate.
Gianna.
She appeared from the crowd like a ghost. Face carefully neutral. But her eyes were urgent.
"Walk with me," she said. Quiet. "Now."
I glanced at Marcus. He nodded. "I'll watch Gideon. Make sure he doesn't try anything during the delay."
