Path of Blood

Standing in front of the mirror, I stared at Zanifar and Levitien strapped to each side of my waist, hidden beneath a thick cloak. There was no lump to show I had a hidden weapon on my person. And yet, as I stared into my amethyst eyes, bathed with a scarlet pigment, the tinge of blood seemed to sting the tip of my tongue. 

I could hardly recognize my aura. It did not belong to that of any proper man or woman. It was elegant, poised, noble, holy, and yet demonic. The more I stared, the more I felt I was gazing at another person. A creature of devouring light. 

"Iza? You ready!" Cece called from outside my tent. " The Rite of Talent is about to commence. Seems there was a bit of a change since last year." 

Giving one last stare to the stranger in my mirror, looking back with a profound smile that embodied carnage. I exited my tent. 

"I'm ready," I said to Cece as she eyed me up and down. 

"You ok?"