Chapter 71: Training for war

Chapter 71: Training for War

The clock was ticking, each moment bringing Anita closer to the confrontation with Kael. The weight of his ultimatum hung heavy in the air, and every step she took felt like a march toward the inevitable. Despite the fear gnawing at her insides, she resolved not to be powerless.

"Again," Jace said, his voice firm but not unkind. They stood in the clearing behind the school, the sun barely peeking over the horizon. Morning mist clung to the grass, cool and damp against Anita’s sneakers. Her muscles ached from hours of practice, but she refused to stop.

She raised her hand, concentrating on the fox bead’s energy coursing through her. A shimmering shield of light flickered into existence before her, wobbling slightly before solidifying.

“Better,” Jace said with a small nod, his golden eyes focused intently on her form. “But it’s not enough. You need to hold it longer.”