It was almost dark.

The training ground was quiet except for the steady rhythm of her breath.

She stood poised, her hair pulled into a tight bun with just a few loose strands sticking to her sweat-slicked skin as she focused on the row of targets ahead.

She lifted her bow, fingers steady as she nocked an arrow.

Deep breath.

Sharp exhale.

Release.

The arrow whistled through the air, piercing straight into the center of the wooden target with a solid thud.

Without missing a second, she rolled into a low tumble, reaching for a dagger at her waist.

The instant her feet met the ground, she snapped her wrist,...