It was the one day of the week when the academy let its guards down—a free day from the relentless drills and brutal training. The oppressive atmosphere that usually weighed down every recruit was replaced by a lighter, if still cautious, energy. Rai, known to others as just another recruit, embraced this rare freedom with a mix of relief and guarded excitement.
That morning, as the first light crept over the stone walls, Rai slipped out of the barracks with a quiet determination. In her heart, she was still fighting battles far more personal than the sparring sessions of the day. To everyone else, she moved as if she were just another boy enjoying a break, but within, she savored every moment of normalcy.
Khael was waiting outside their shared quarters, his demeanor relaxed yet watchful
