‘This is where they wheel on the sickos.’ Ed ran a finger down his scar. ‘I’m sitting this one out. I’ve fought enough of them in my time.’

Kids were marching into the arena. Two from each camp. Mean-looking, grim-faced, serious. They all had weapons, real weapons this time, swords and spears, one with a spiked mace. And there, with his baggy white T-shirt already filthy from the day’s action, was Kyle, carrying his axe. Beside him was Sean. The crowd was cheering loudly, but the gladiators all looked like they were in a world of their own. Concentrating. Some wore pieces of body armour and helmets. Some of them looked like they were from a paintball site, though a couple had boxing helmets and a few had snowboarding ones.

The two Windsor boys even had shields. Ed spotted Josa and Kenton, wearing the red of Slough. Sticking close to each other. Ed didn’t recognize any of the others. They hadn’t been in any of the races until now. These were specialists. Killers. The two Sandhurst guys reminded Ed of Ryan and his hunters. They were dressed all in leather – jacket, gloves, boots, even trousers – glittering with sharp studs and chains. One even had a string of dried ears hanging from his belt, just like Ryan. He was the only fighter who raised his face and acknowledged the crowd. An ugly, battle-scarred face, with missing teeth and a broken nose. He looked like someone who was good for nothing except this.

‘My money is on him,’ said Ebenezer. ‘He is going to punish the rest of them.’

‘Surely they’re not going to fight each other?’ Brooke was wide-eyed with disbelief. ‘Not with those weapons.’

‘Don’t worry.’ Ed put his arm round her shoulders. He had to admit, though, that he really wasn’t sure about this event. He had a sick, cold feeling in the pit of his stomach. The games had taken a darker turn.

Arno stepped up to the barrier, climbed into the arena and stood in the middle. The King was sitting in a sort of makeshift throne in the centre of the seats, grinning happily and turning his head from side to side like a clockwork toy.

‘My lords, ladies, gentlemen and whatever the hell the rest of you are,’ Arno called out. ‘We here at Ascot Entertainments PLC and Extreme Sports Unlimited proudly present the highlight of our race meeting. The event you’ve all come here for. The Royal Tournament, presented in two parts. The champion of each part, gladiators and conquistadors, will be decided by you, the people. Although points are scored for kills and maimings. Who will be the champion this time in this battle royal?’

Chapter 59

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