The morning air was filled with a metallic and dusty smell. The training ground buzzed with activity and with the sound of fists bashing against padded armour and the loud noise of their wooden swords hitting their shields. Evelyn stood in the middle of the ring, with sweat on her face, and she was breathing steadily despite the distinct ache in her muscles. She had been fighting for almost an hour, but she told herself she wouldn't quit.
Around the arena, soldiers and new recruits were watching closely. Some leaned in with interest, while others whispered to each other, but they weren't making fun of her anymore. Something had changed. Evelyn could tell by the way they looked at her, noticing her strength instead of her weakness.
George called out from the side of the ring, "Again."
