Evaline:
By the time Oscar finally dismissed the morning training session, the recruits looked like they were two breaths away from collapsing. Sweat, groans, and the faint sound of someone muttering "I think I can see the ancestors…" filled the arena.
I wasn't much better off - my arms felt like noodles, and my entire body was sore and protesting.
Kyros fell into step beside me as we walked toward the cafeteria, both of us dragging our feet.
"Did you see how that new kid swung that spear?" Kyros grumbled. "A hazard. A walking hazard. I'm filing a complaint. For my safety."
I snorted. "You'll survive. Probably."
"Probably," he echoed, narrowing his eyes at me in mock betrayal.
When we walked into the cafeteria, the comforting smell of warm bread, roasted chicken, herbs, and something sweet - maybe honeyed oats - hit me like a hug.
Rowan sat tucked in the far back corner, waving us over with the energy of someone who had slept a full ten hours.
