The tension in the air was palpable as Nicholas and I sat across from each other. The Stones and Crowns board lay between us, pieces set in their starting positions. Around us, the gathered students and instructors whispered amongst themselves, anticipation thick in their voices.
Gale stood nearby, arms crossed, his smirk never wavering. "This should be entertaining."
I rolled my shoulders, cracking my neck. "Entertaining is one word for it. Let's see if you can live up to the hype, Nicholas."
Nicholas gave a slow nod, his fingers hovering over his first move. Unlike Evelyn, who had been methodical and precise, Nicholas was a different beast altogether. He was a veteran at this game, known for his aggressive and unpredictable style.
The moment his fingers landed on a piece and slid it across the board, I knew this wouldn't be easy.
