The sun was beginning to set as Damien returned to his quarters, his body still buzzing with the adrenaline of the fight. He sat on the edge of his bed, Ebonfang resting across his lap. The blade’s runes pulsed faintly, a reminder of the power he wielded.

The door opened, and Kael entered, his expression neutral but his eyes sharp. “You handled yourself well out there,” he said, leaning against the wall. “But tomorrow will be different.”

Damien nodded. “Lyra.”

Kael crossed his arms. “She’s fast, precise, and she’ll exploit any hesitation. You won’t have the luxury of waiting for openings. You’ll need to create them.”

Selene entered next, her usual playful demeanor tempered by seriousness. “And don’t get caught up trying to match her speed,” she added. “That’s her game, and she’s good at it.”

Damien absorbed their advice, his mind already shifting to the next battle. “I’ll be ready.”

This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

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THE NIGHT BEFORE

Later that evening, Damien made his way to the training grounds for one final session. The arena was empty, the moon casting a pale glow over the stone floor. He practiced his strikes, his movements fluid and deliberate. Each swing of Ebonfang felt more natural, more in tune with his instincts.

As he trained, Lady Elira approached, her steps silent. She watched him for a moment before speaking. “Your journey has only just begun,” she said softly. “But you’ve already shown the strength of a true Ashenblade.”

Damien lowered his blade, turning to face her. “I still have much to learn.”

Elira smiled. “And you will. Trust in yourself, Damien. Tomorrow will bring new challenges, but you’ve proven you can rise to meet them.”

She placed a hand on his shoulder, her touch gentle but firm. “Rest now. You’ll need your strength.”

Damien nodded, his resolve solidifying. As he returned to his quarters, he felt a sense of calm wash over him. The battles ahead would test him in ways he couldn’t yet imagine, but he was ready to face them.