The moon hung low over the academy's outskirts, casting silver light across the empty training grounds.
The usual daytime crowds had long since retreated to their dorms, leaving only the soft whisper of wind and the distant hum of the city beyond the walls.
Elowyn Strix stood alone in the center of the field; her sword extended in a form she had repeated thousands of times.
Sweat clung to her brow, and her breathing was steady despite the hour.
She had been here since dusk, moving through her forms with a focus that left no room for distraction.
She sensed something before she heard a voice.
"I finally found you. I've been looking for you, Elowyn."
Elowyn lowered her sword and turned. A silver-haired boy stood at the edge of the field, his violet eyes fixed on her.
"Cael?"
He smiled and waved his hand lightly.
"What's wrong? Forget me already?"
The wind picked up slightly, carrying the scent of night-blooming flowers from somewhere beyond the training grounds.
