The clerk handed her a smooth obsidian token engraved with the number 217.
"A waiting room is down the corridor."
"When your number is called, proceed to Gate Seven."
She accepted the token.
"Thank you."
The waiting chamber was filled with fighters.
Some sharpened their weapons.
Others meditated.
A few silently observed everyone entering the room.
Luna found an empty corner and quietly sat down.
She closed her eyes.
Slow breaths.
Steady heartbeat.
Orpheus's lessons echoed inside her mind.
"Don't rush."
"Observe."
"Information wins battles before swords are drawn."
Instead of staring at the competitors directly, she listened.
"...That giant has won twelve fights..."
"...The horned brute crushed someone's ribs yesterday..."
"...A newcomer from the western wastelands..."
"...Odds are three to one..."
Every conversation became another piece of information.
One by one, names were called.
Fighters disappeared through the gates.
Some returned victorious.
