Carter's POV
I didn’t sleep.
Didn’t even try.
By the time the sun rose over the packhouse, I was already standing at the edge of the training grounds, arms crossed, muscles stiff.
The rest of the warriors were already there.
Watching me.
Waiting.
They had heard the whispers.
They had seen me at my lowest.
And now, they wanted to know if I was still worth following.
My father stood in the center, his silver eyes cold, assessing.
“Well,” he muttered. “At least you’re on time.”
The warriors chuckled,low, amused.
I ignored them.
Because I didn’t care what they thought.
Didn’t care about anything.
I just wanted to get this over with.
Cyrus rolled his shoulders.
Then,without warning,he moved.
Fast.
His fist slammed into my ribs, sending a sharp jolt of pain through my side.
