Chapter 27
Training started with drills meant to wear us out. Maya made us run through the forest at dawn. We carried full packs and weapons, moving fast but quietly. The goal was to build our strength for the fortress mission and to learn how to move together as a team. I tripped over a tree root for the third time, but Ash grabbed my arm before I hit the ground. “Focus,” he whispered. “Step where I step. Follow my exact path.” I nodded and tried to copy his movements. Ash was amazing at this. He moved through the forest silently, like he barely touched the ground. Every step was planned. Every branch avoided. Behind me, Kael moved just as smoothly, even though his leg was still healing. Lyra and Maya followed behind us, both looking way too comfortable with the harsh pace. We ran for two full
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