ELLA

I continued training until after sunset and was breathless by the time I decided my body had reached its limit for the day. Despite the ache in my joints, I felt lighter and much stronger.

I had also practiced the moves I saw Lyla perform and was certain I had mastered them, but I would only confirm that when we returned here to practice tomorrow.

I closed my eyes for a moment, exhaled, and inhaled until I had steadied my breathing. I resisted the urge to open my eyes and decided to listen to the sound of the waterfall to help me stay calm.

As the minutes rolled by,...