#Chapter 17 - Prophecy

“Oh yes,” Anton murmurs, nodding sagely. “One of those. Please, tell us more.” I glance at Anton, again rolling my eyes because I know that he’s as ignorant as I am. He gives me a little smirk before we both turn our attention back to Laila. “It was a deal,” Laila says, taking a sip of her sea water. “My great-great-great-Grandfather – I lost count of how many generations back – made a deal with the God of Death. In exchange for two hundred and fifty years of life –“ I gape at Laila, shocked, but she just continues on as if this is normal. “- he promised that the God of Death could have his choice of any of the maidens of his family line to participate in the Games when that day came. Honestly,” she laughs a little, “it became sort of a fairy tale in our family until poof! One day, a little over a week ago, he shows up, ready to make good on the deal.” I glance at Anton, who likewise stares in shock at Laila. “So you…you didn’t choose to be here? Or want to be?” I ask.