The next morning, the palace halls buzzed with Grisha energy. Sunlight glinted off crystal walls, but I barely noticed the beauty—my eyes were scanning for danger, for potential threats, and for ways to help Alina control her power. My dreadlocks shifted slightly as I moved, red eyes scanning every corner. Shadows remained dormant, coiled inside me, waiting for their time.
Alina moved beside me, trying to keep her glowing sunlight in check. "I… I don't know if I can do this," she admitted softly.
"You can," I said firmly, serious. "Just follow my lead. Breathe. Focus. I'll keep you safe."
We entered the training hall. Zoya and Genya were there, sparring and practicing their abilities. Zoya's lightning flared, precise and dangerous. Genya's illusions danced around her. I noted their skill levels, filing mental data for later. Observing other Grisha could be useful for both of us—strategically and for survival.
During the exercises, one of the female trainees approached to ask a question about a maneuver. I answered politely, explaining in detail the best way to control energy in combat. Alina's golden light flared slightly, and she shifted her stance. Her cheeks were pink, subtle but unmistakable. Ah, I thought. She doesn't like me talking to other girls. Interesting. I ignored it during training, focus first, analysis second.
Hours of drills followed: controlled light bursts, tactical movement, defensive maneuvers, and etiquette lessons. I stayed at Alina's side, guiding her, protecting her, and subtly helping her synchronize her sunlight with mine. Shadows stirred faintly, sensing the coiled power inside me, but I restrained them. Not yet.
During a short break, another female trainee waved at me. I greeted her politely, tone measured. Alina's eyes flared again, sunlight pulsing faintly as she muttered, "You don't… have to be so nice."
I nodded, keeping my voice serious. "Just being helpful. No offense intended." Humor stayed tucked away. Safety and training came first.
By evening, the palace was quiet again. Alina leaned against a railing, glowing faintly, exhausted but still determined. I stood beside her, scanning the halls for lingering threats. "Day two," I said softly. "We made it through. Stronger than yesterday."
She gave me a small smile, brushing her hair back. "Thanks, Zac. For everything."
I let a faint grin slip. "And I'd say we're getting pretty good at this," I said lightly, tone safe now, humor re-entering.
Alina laughed softly, golden light flickering. Her fluster around me was subtle, but I noticed every detail. Shadows remained dormant, light controlled, training completed—another day survived, another day protected.