Clara
By the time combat training ended, my entire body ached.
Every muscle. Every inch. But it wasn’t the kind of pain I hated. It was the kind that came with progress.
With strength.
With becoming something new.
“Come on,” Marissa said, tossing me a small grin. “You’re not done yet.”
I groaned. “You’re kidding.”
Jenn laughed, grabbing my hand and pulling me along. “Nope. Magic training.”
I let them drag me through the trees until the sound of rushing water filled my ears. The river.
We stepped into a small clearing beside it—and immediately my attention locked onto the fire burning at the center.
It wasn’t large.
Just a controlled, steady flame contained within a ring of stones.
Waiting.
For me.
Mom and Estella stood nearby.
Mom smiled softly when she saw me. “Tired?”
I h
