The Manticore Ascension · A Short Story in the Arena Mode Universe

SPOILER ALERT

This story takes place between the events of ‘Arena Mode’ and ‘Assault or Attrition’. There are major spoilers for 'Arena Mode' both in this book, and in the summary below.

Brynja Guðmundsdóttir is dead.

Though technically speaking, ‘mostly dead’ might be a more accurate description.

In 2041’s most dangerous sporting event – Arena Mode – Brynja competed for a multi-billion dollar prize by fighting twelve of the world’s most dangerous superhumans. Her ability to become incorporeal and pass through objects kept her alive for the majority of the event, and she was well on her way to crossing the proverbial finish line...that is, until she was struck by a bolt of electricity, phasing her out of existence.

Or at least her existence in time and space as we understand it.

In the Arena Mode Saga, Brynja’s story came to an end. But in the continuum of infinite universes and endless possibilities, her adventure is just about to begin.

BSFA NOMINEE – ‘ARENA MODE’ BEST NOVEL, 2013