war

Esteria woke early the next morning, the first rays of dawn painting the sky in hues of gold and crimson. Her body ached from the week of relentless training, but her mind was sharper than ever, her resolve unshaken. She dressed quickly, donning her training leathers, and stepped outside onto the palace grounds.

To her surprise, Gladius was already waiting for her at the edge of the training field, his imposing figure standing against the rising sun. He carried no weapon, only the ever-present flames that seemed to flicker faintly in his eyes.

"You're up early," he remarked without looking at her.

"I couldn't sleep," she admitted, stopping a few paces away.

He turned to her, his expression unreadable. "Good. Restlessness means you're ready for what comes next."

Esteria frowned. "What does come next?"