Vanidemia and the Freedom Trials

Vocabulary flashcards identifying the key characters, social classes, setting, and events from the opening chapters of the story.

Athena Ledger

The narrator from the gutters of Vanidemia who is selected to compete in the Freedom Trials.

Vanidemia

A place featuring gold, gardens, and towers on the surface, beneath which lie slums, gutters, and extreme inequality.

Burleumus

The wealthy, higher-class citizens of Vanidemia who are taught to be trusted as polished 'saviors' and spectate the Freedom Trials.

Cindari

The impoverished underclass of Vanidemia labeled as rebels, liars, and monsters, who lack resources but share a close sense of togetherness.

Ozias Bieler

Athena's companion from the gutters who trains her in hand-to-hand combat and is selected alongside her for the Freedom Trials.

Freedom Trials

An annual, violent death match created by the rich for entertainment, where chosen young adults compete for a lavish lifestyle and freedom from poverty.

Rose Collymore

A hyperactive Freedom Trials competitor whom Athena meets in the carriage and characterizes as 'sunshine.'

Grace Huxley

A Freedom Trials competitor whom Athena meets in the carriage and characterizes as 'twilight.'

Rosemary

A castle maid with strawberry-blonde curls who prepares Athena's bath, dress, and makeup before dinner.

Martin Stoll

A young competitor in the Freedom Trials whose name appears on the roster and whom Athena meets at dinner.

Simon Verlice

A competitor in the Freedom Trials listed on the posted roster and introduced in the castle dining hall.