Lyra's POV
The days following our confrontation passed in an uncomfortable dance of avoidance. Ash stayed away from me, choosing seats across the dining hall during meals and barely offering more than a curt nod during our shared classes. Still, I could feel his presence everywhere. His shadow would fall across my path during basic training sessions, and I'd spot his imposing figure trailing behind me as I walked back from evening meals. He maintained his distance while somehow remaining constantly within my orbit.
When Monday evening's training session arrived, I was genuinely surprised to find him there. Killian stood beside him, radiating reluctance with his arms folded tightly across his chest, as if he'd rather be anywhere else in the world. Ash mirrored his posture, but his attention remained laser-focused, dark eyes tracking every movement between Alaric and myself like a predator studying its prey.
