#Chapter 46 – The Scent of Truth

Lila Floor-length mirrors lined every wall, distorting the space with reflections of the candidates. It felt like standing in a dream…or a trap. Another day, another selection trial. With each passing round, the number of us shrank—and the pressure curled tighter around my ribs. After Vanessa’s threat, after arranging the meeting I didn’t want to happen, I hadn’t expected the next test to come so soon. Or for it to be this intimate. Today’s task had been kept secret until the last possible moment. Considering how much gossip filled the palace halls, that was a miracle in itself. But now, staring at the reflection of myself and a dozen other candidates, I understood why. This wasn’t combat or political strategy. It was entirely personal. We were each given a small obsidian bowl, a pestle, and a slip of parchment with our instructions: Craft a scent that speaks to your nature. Your soul. Your truth. It must be wild and worthy. Some of the girls groaned. Others lit up l