Training, shadows and a stranger

The backyard of the Badmus house was just big enough to be a decent training ground—if you didn’t mind dodging the occasional soccer ball or the neighbor’s yappy dog that barked like it had unresolved trauma. The sun was out in full force, turning the grass into a shimmering field of green and shadow.

Eve tossed a dagger between her hands like it was a stress ball. “So... how’s the secret training in your best friend’s backyard going for you?”

I rolled my eyes and let a small pulse of magic ripple through my palm. “Glorious. Nothing like hiding ancient power while pretending to be normal.”

“I know, right?” She grinned, flipping the dagger in a show-offy arc. “Just your average suburban teens… with deadly weapons and emotional baggage.”

“You’re the one with daggers.”

“You have literal fire in your blood. I think we’re even.”