The group hurriedly moved to the cover of the wooden stands. Rain drummed against the roof above them, a steady rhythm that did nothing to calm Ryan's growing nerves.
Captain Vera stood near the front with Principal Helena, both watching the group approaching.
"Accusers," Vera said. Her tone was neutral but commanding. "You have under thirty minutes until the Trial begins. Armour up. I'll verify your tiers when you're ready."
Ryan nodded and unslung his backpack.
The others did the same.
They spread out slightly, each claiming space to don their equipment. Ryan pulled out his plain armour piece by piece—breastplate, great helm, pauldrons, greaves, gauntlets.
Ryan slipped his bracelet off, and left it in his bag's pouch.
He glanced at his brothers as they worked.
James and Jared wore nearly identical armor—both sets were also provided by Gregory. They were solid armour, well-maintained but void of decorations. Practical gear for soldiers, not nobles.
