CHAPTER 16

The early morning light had just started to brighten the sky when I quietly got out of bed, making sure not to disturb Xander. My body was sore from the activities of the previous day, but I ignored the pain. There was no room for being weak, especially with the dangers we were dealing with.

I headed to the practice area, where the chilly morning air felt cool on my skin. As I started my stretching exercises, my thoughts turned to Lyra's deception and Her unclear motives bothered me, which only made me more determined to get stronger.

I was so focused on my workout that I didn't see Xander coming until he spoke. "You're up early."

I faced him, wiping sweat from my forehead. "Couldn't sleep.” Thought I'd get a head start on training."

Xander's eyes softened with concern. "Aurora, you need to rest too. Pushing yourself too hard won't help anyone."

"I can't afford to rest, Xander," I replied, my voice tight with frustration. "Not while Lyra's out there, not while those twisted wolves are