The eastern garden of the Sixth Branch residence had become Kael's unofficial training ground. The mana density was lower here than in the ruins, but the open space and relative privacy made it tolerable.
Elena sat cross-legged beneath a twisted ironwood tree, her eyes closed, mana circulating through her Core Formation pathways with the disciplined rhythm Sophie had drilled into her. Beside her, Nora mimicked the posture with considerably less grace, her small frame wobbling slightly every few seconds.
Kael watched from the porch, a cup of cold tea in his hand.
Nora broke stance first, eyes snapping open. "Mommy will be back from her family soon."
"Yeah, I know." Kael sipped his tea. "Can't wait. Come on, keep cultivating."
"I don't want to."
"Do it or I will tell Sophie when she comes back."
Nora grumbled as she continued cultivating.
