The storm that had ravaged the castle walls all night finally began to dissipate, its dark clouds slowly unraveling as dawn broke over the battlements. The first light of morning cast long shadows across the stone courtyard, illuminating the debris scattered by the storm's fury. As the last wisps of cloud vanished, a spark of resistance flickered to life within the castle's walls. It was a small flame, but one that held a spark of resistance. A promise of war.
The children stood in the courtyard, their eyes fixed on Leor and his companions as they prepared to embark on the rigorous training that would forge them into skilled warriors.
Leor stood at the center of the courtyard, scanning the children's faces. Their faces, once hollowed by fear and exhaustion, were now hardened with resolve. They were young, but each bore the mark of celestial power almost stolen by Xal’dar. Now, they needed to learn how to use it.