The Archer's Awakening
Sophie followed Eve down the winding staircase, her boots echoing against the concrete. The descent felt endless, as if they were walking into the marrow of the earth. When they reached the bottom, Sophie grasped.
The underground space was massive vaulted ceilings, steel beams, and a labyrinth of training zones. Sparring cages, weapon racks, obstacle courses. It was a hidden world built for war.
"This is incredible," Sophie whispered. "All this… just for training?"
Eve nodded, her expression unreadable.
"How long have you been in the fight?" Sophie asked.
Eve gave a faint smile. "Too long. Every day feels like a year of stress, loss, and wondering if it's all worth it."
Sophie looked at her, surprised by the honesty. "You're all heroes."
Eve's smile deepened. "You're a kind soul. But there's something else in you. Power. I can feel it."
Sophie blushed, unsure how to respond.
Eve turned to a weapons rack and pulled out a bow. It was unlike anything Sophie had seen sleek, elegant, engraved with swirling patterns that shimmered faintly in the low light. The arrows were fletched with iridescent feathers, peacock-like, regal.
"This," Eve said, "will serve you well."
Sophie hesitated. "I don't know how to shoot."
Eve handed her the bow gently. "That's why we're here. To teach."
Sophie gripped the weapon, feeling its weight, its balance. Something stirred in her a quiet certainty.
"We have no time to waste," she said, eyes bright.
Eve's face lit up with genuine joy. "Then let's begin, warrior."