“We’d like to thank everyone for joining us tonight for the First Elimination Ceremony. Tonight, as you have all been previously informed, we will be sending home 9 Luna candidates, leaving our remaining count at 15.”
Nathan, microphone in hand, spoke mainly for the cameras, and not the three lines of us girls arranged on a set of rising stands behind him.
“The elimination tonight will be based on the candidates’ skillsets. Over the past few weeks, have they displayed the necessary ability and poise to reign as a Luna? They’ve been judged, and tonight, we will deliver the results.”
I shifted on my feet, too nervous to stand still. I lowered my hand, pressing away imaginary folds on my golden gown. I’d never felt more beautiful, but then, everyone around me looked even better.
Nathan co
