The afternoon sun beat down on the coliseum, the stone seating now crowded with spectators eagerly awaiting the day's main matches. Grim had retreated to a quiet alcove in one of the less-traveled corridors, mentally preparing for his upcoming fight. According to the tournament schedule, he would face a swordsman from the eastern provinces. Someone with a reputation for unorthodox techniques but no particular accolades of note.
"There you are," a familiar voice called out. "I've been looking everywhere."
Grim glanced up to see Chen Xing approaching, a long bundle wrapped in oiled cloth tucked under his arm and an all black sword. Despite the time that had passed Chen Xing was still a pretty boy.
"I wasn't hiding," Grim replied. "Just avoiding unnecessary attention."
Chen Xing snorted. "After yesterday's performance? That ship has sailed, little brother."
