The morning sun cast pale light across the training grounds of the White Castle. Maria stood at the center, her white hair untouched by the wind, her ice-blue eyes scanning the seven women before her.
They were her elite. Her chosen. The Frozen Valkyries, though that name had not yet been spoken aloud. Each was a master of ice in her own right. Each had been tested and proven. Each looked at Maria with something between respect and awe.
Today, they would face their greatest challenge.
Maria spoke, her voice flat and cold. "The Dragon's Maw dungeon. Third circle. Drake packs. Wyverns in the upper chambers. Possibly a young dragon at the deepest level."
The seven women stood perfectly still, absorbing the information. No questions. No fear. They had learned to trust their commander completely.
"Our goal is not just survival," Maria continued. "It is growth. You will fight. You will learn. You will become stronger."
She paused, letting her gaze touch each of them in turn.
