“Hold your sword tighter, Arwen.”
Ryan’s voice rang firm, cutting through the silence of a morning still wrapped in mist.
Arwen drew a deep breath, both hands trying to grip the steel sword that looked far too big for her small frame.
Beads of sweat already dampened her temples though the sun had barely risen.
“I’m trying, Ryan.”
Ryan lowered his sword for a moment, studying her with an unreadable gaze.
“It’s not just about trying. You have to believe this sword is part of you. The moment you hesitate, your opponent will see the opening.”
Arwen swallowed hard, straightened her posture, and tried again. This time, her eyes were sharper, more focused. When Ryan lunged forward, their swords clashed, the metallic ring echoing across the training yard.
Robyn, sitting not far from the ar
