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The air was thick with anticipation as you, Allysa, Seth, and a few of your closest comrades in covert arts gathered at the Valeor Palace racecourse. The first contest of the Royal Assassin's Tournament was about to commence, and the tension among the 200 assassins was palpable.
The emperor, a figure both revered and feared, ascended the dais with an air of solemnity. His voice, when he spoke, carried across the field, "Welcome, esteemed assassins of the empire. Today, you embark on a challenge that will test your skills and your resolve." He paused, surveying the crowd before continuing, "The rules are simple. Each of you may pick one horse from the shed. Among you stand over 200 assassins, but only the first 100 to arrive at the finish line will advance to the next challenge." His gaze lingered on the crowd a moment longer before he added, "Good luck to you all. The race begins in one hour. Prepare yourselves."
You nodded, taking in his words. The race was not just a test of speed but of strategy and choice. With a determined stride, you made your way to the shed, the scent of hay and horse mingling in the cool air. The shed was a cacophony of sounds, with horses snorting and hooves stamping.
As you perused the stalls, each horse seemed more majestic than the last. You needed one that was swift yet sturdy, with a spirit as indomitable as your own. That's when you felt a presence behind you, and a familiar voice broke through your concentration.
"Onin," you breathed, not daring to turn around. The very same Onin who was as lethal with his charm as he was with a blade. The one you couldn't help but be drawn to, though you'd never dare admit it.
"Choosing a horse is like choosing a partner for the dance of death," Onin said, his voice a low murmur. "It must be a perfect match, or you'll both falter."
You finally turned to face him, your heart racing for reasons that had nothing to do with the impending race. "And what do you look for in such a match?" you asked, hoping your voice didn't betray the fluttering in your chest.
"A strong heart, a fierce spirit, and an unyielding will," he replied, his gold eyes locking with yours. "Qualities I see in you... and in this one," he gestured to a sleek, ebony horse with eyes that held a fire within.
You approached the horse, laying a hand on its mane. It was a perfect choice, and you couldn't help but wonder if Onin saw the same qualities in you that he admired in the horse. But there was no time for such thoughts now. The race was about to begin, and with Onin's help, you had found your steed.
With a nod of thanks to Onin, you prepared to mount. The challenge ahead was daunting, but with the right horse beneath you and the thrill of the unknown before you, you felt a surge of confidence. This was your moment, and you would seize it.
