I took a deep breath, trying to process the whirlwind of emotions swirling inside of me.
I had come to train with the hope of proving myself, but Xavier had just turned my first day into a brutal lesson in humility.
"Yeah, well, I didn't expect him to go all out like that," I muttered, still feeling the sting of his taunts. "I thought it was supposed to be a friendly spar."
Jolie chuckled, helping me pull off my sweaty shirt. "Friendly? With Xavier? . He's like a wolf in sheep's clothing. But you know what? You held your ground. Not many can say that."
I glanced at my reflection in the mirror, my hair a mess and my cheeks flushed. "I looked like a rag doll getting tossed around. How is that impressive?"
"Because you kept getting back up," Jolie replied, her tone serious now. "That's what matters. You didn't back down, even when he was throwing insults and punches. That shows guts."
"Guts?" Baby scoffed, shaking her head. "I just looked foolish."
"Foolish? No way. You showed everyone that you're not afraid to fight back, even if you're not winning yet. That's the spirit of a fighter. Trust me, it'll earn you respect."
I sighed, the weight of Jolie's words slowly sinking in. "I guess I didn't think of it that way. I just wanted to prove I could hold my own."
"And you will," Jolie said, a smile creeping onto her face. "Just give it time. You're new, and Xavier is a seasoned fighter. But you've got potential. Just keep training, and don't let him get to you."
"Easier said than done," I replied, a hint of a smile breaking through my frustration. "But I'll try."
"Good. Now, let's get changed "You've got a lot to learn, and I'll be right there with you."
As we finished changing, I felt a flicker of determination ignite within me. I might have been knocked down severely today, but I wasn't out. And From this experience, l was going to be ready next time.
From my locker, I spotted Astraea in a hurry. She was packing something large into her backpack, which seemed quite oversized for a novice .
In her rush, she barely managed to avoid bumping into someone, but she quickly apologized and continued on her way. I couldn't help but wonder what she was up to.
***†***†***
The queen's eyes narrowed as she mixed her tea, her trusted advisor, Augustus, seated opposite her.
"How is Sameen's well-being?" she asked, her voice laced with concern.
Augustus' expression turned serious. "Your Grace, words can't capture her state. I think it's best if you saw for yourself."
The queen waved her hand dismissively. "No need for that. I'm sure she's recovered from the accident's shock and wounds by now."
Augustus raised an eyebrow. "Sure' is a strong word, especially when you've barely visited her. Perhaps-"
The queen cut him off, her voice firm. "Save your lectures, Augustus. We both know my days are numbered. I don't have time for pep talks and chocolate sharing."
Augustus' eyes flashed with understanding. "You know I can't disagree, nor can I hide my concerns. You've taken away her freedom, and-"
The queen's expression hardened. "Enough! Prepare Sameen to take her role as Dragomir's head in the royal court. We have work to do."
Augustus hesitated. "What about Xavier?"
The queen's gaze turned icy. "What about him? He's a Dhampir Guardian, and she's a Moroi princess. We both knew their friendship was fleeting."
Augustus breath out , reluctantly taking exit.