The next morning arrived with a chill in the air. Meredith woke early, her heart pounding in her chest. Today was the day. She dressed quickly, pulling on her training gear and heading toward the training grounds, where Magnus and the warriors were already preparing.
As she approached, she spotted Magnus, already deep in conversation with several of the warriors. It was clear that they respected him deeply. He moved like a man who knew exactly what needed to be done.
Magnus caught sight of her and waved her over. “You ready?”
She nodded. “Ready as I'll ever be.”
He grinned at her, that familiar teasing glint in his eye.
“Good," he said. "I'd hate to have to carry you through this.”
Meredith smirked, crossing her arms. “Don't worry, I'll keep up.”
They shared a b
