The knights shadow

The sun hung high, casting sharp shadows across the training yard. Elara, disguised as Eli, wiped sweat from her brow, her muscles aching from the relentless drills. She couldn't afford to show weakness; maintaining her cover depended on it.

Around her, recruits murmured among themselves, stealing glances at the imposing figure of Commander Damien. His reputation for being unyielding was well-known, and today, he seemed particularly stern.

"Listen up!" Damien's voice cut through the chatter. "Pair up for combat drills. If you don't have a partner, you'll be sparring with me."

Elara's heart raced. She scanned the crowd, hoping to find a partner quickly. Most had already paired off, leaving her standing alone.

Before she could panic, a voice called out, "Need a partner?"

She turned to see Rhys, Damien's second-in-command, approaching with a friendly grin. Unlike Damien, Rhys was known for his approachable demeanor.

"Looks like it's you and me," Rhys said, picking up a wooden training sword.

Elara nodded, gripping her own practice weapon. She felt a mix of relief and apprehension. Sparring with Rhys was preferable to facing Damien, but she knew better than to underestimate him.

"Ready when you are," Rhys said, taking a defensive stance.

Elara mirrored his posture, focusing on his movements. The two circled each other, the tension palpable.

Rhys struck first, a swift move aimed at her side. Elara attempted to parry, but the force of the blow nearly knocked her off balance. She countered with a thrust, which Rhys easily deflected.

"Keep your guard up," Rhys advised, his tone encouraging.

They continued exchanging blows, but it was clear Elara was struggling. Her earlier fatigue weighed her down, and her inexperience showed. Rhys, noticing her difficulty, adjusted his attacks, offering guidance between strikes.

"Don't overextend," he said after she stumbled forward from a missed swing. "It leaves you vulnerable."

Elara nodded, frustration bubbling inside her. She wanted to prove herself, but her body wasn't cooperating.

As their sparring session continued, Elara became acutely aware of the eyes watching them. Damien stood at a distance, his gaze fixed on their match. She couldn't discern his thoughts, but the weight of his scrutiny pushed her to fight harder.

Rhys feinted left before swinging right. Elara anticipated the move but lacked the speed to fully evade it. The wooden blade tapped her shoulder—a clear hit.

"Yield," Rhys said, lowering his weapon. "You're improving, but there's still work to be done."

Elara lowered her sword, breathing heavily. "Thank you."

As they stepped back, Damien approached, his expression unreadable.

"Not bad," he said curtly, his eyes locking onto Elara's. "But not good enough. You'll need to do better if you wish to remain here."

"Yes, Commander," Elara replied, standing straighter.

Damien nodded, then turned to address the rest of the recruits. "Take this as a lesson. Skill can outweigh strength, but only if you remain disciplined."

As the group dispersed for the next drill, Rhys clapped Elara on the back. "You're quite the fighter. Keep practicing, and you'll get there."

"Thanks," Elara said, forcing a smile. Inside, determination burned brighter than ever. She had a long way to go, but she was resolved to improve, no matter the obstacles.