The First Day I was to become a Razor Master, to replace the one I helped topple. For me, stepping through the Gate was like falling through a crucible of flame.
It burned deep, boiled my blood, and I crashed out in a field, amidst a shower of molten rock and steam. I don't know how it was that I lived.
I realized I was clutching a dagger in my hand.
"I have given you a means of defense." The voice spoke, but no one was there.
"This is all?" I asked the air.
"That is all you need. Now prove yourself, and live. Or fail, and embrace a new day."
