"Now, everyone, stand in your positions!" Ajay's voice cracked like a whip across the training hall. His tone carried no warmth, only a sharp command that made even Hazzy stiffen as though an iron chain had wrapped around his body.
The guildmaster was gone—Maya had left to meet someone important—and the burden of instruction fell entirely on Ajay. If Maya's training was strict, Ajay's was merciless.
"Pick up your weapons," he ordered. "And forget what you think you know. From this moment, I am not your friend, not your senior—I am the wall that will either break you or sharpen you."
The hall fell silent.
