Ashes Of The First Tyrant

Morning at the Bastion was usually quiet.

But not today.

The courtyard was a storm of motion trainees sparring, aura exercises underway, and a chill wind slicing through the training fields.

At the center of it all stood Elya Varin, SSS Hero and newly appointed guest instructor.

And in front of her, trying not to fall flat on his face, was Thalen.

"Again," she barked.

Thalen raised his sword. Sweat streaked his brow, and his arms ached from hours of forms. "This is the eighth repetition."

"And your footwork is still garbage."

He gritted his teeth and lunged.

Aura in Motion

Elya caught his strike with the flat of her blade and spun, sweeping his legs out from under him.