The sun was high when Anana’s eyes fluttered open, her lashes heavy like they had weights attached to them.
The moment she tried to move, a sharp ache shot through every muscle, ripping a groan from her lips.
“Ugh… goddess…” she whispered, her arms trembling as she managed to push herself to sit. Her back ached, her legs screamed, and even her fingers throbbed from the previous night’s relentless training. It felt as though every fiber of her body was swollen and sore, punishing her for her stubborn determination.
She was still groaning when a sudden knock rattled her door.
She winced at the thought of walking to answer it.
“Who’s there?” she called out, her voice raspy from sleep.
A maid’s voice came muffled through the wood.
“Message from Alpha Lucien! The memorial ceremony has be
