“The Ritual”

We were never supposed to make it this far. That much is clear.

Their jaws dangle, showing rows of pointed, gleaming teeth, and their scales ripple as they turn to each other, eyes unblinking and full of confusion.

But then again, we must be quite the spectacle. Two humans, having just emerged from their temple after completing their most sacred ritual.

The crowd silences as their Queen steps forward. The curl of her claws around the iron railing is the only sign of her displeasure. Her face remains emotionless, as does her voice.

“The Upworlders have completed the first part of the ritual,” she says. “They may now proceed to the final part.”

Wait. There’s another part?

I open my mouth to protest, but the Queen doesn’t let me speak.

“In order to prove that they truly belong with us,” she says, eyes glinting, “they must demonstrate their loyalty.” She pauses, then sits back and waves a claw between the two of us. “Whoever survives shall join our ranks.”