The clang of metal against metal echoed once again across the estate’s training yard. Amara was in the center, her arms raised in a guarded stance, her breathing controlled despite the bruises forming across her forearms.
Lila moved fast, striking with precision, every movement sharp and efficient. But this time Amara didn’t flinch. She blocked, twisted, redirected. The sweat rolling down her temple didn’t slow her.
When Lila’s final strike came, a sweeping kick, Amara sidestepped, countering with a shove that sent her mentor a step back.
For a moment, silence. Then Lila smiled faintly.
“Better. Much better,” she said.
Amara lowered her guard, panting. “You didn’t go easy.”
“I never do.” Lila wiped her forehead with the back of her arm. “And yet you didn’t break. You’re learning, Ama
