Chapter 41

After the morning drills, Rurik gathered the group to discuss strategy for the tournament. The atmosphere grew tense, each student hanging onto Rurik’s every word. He detailed the structure of the tournament: three rounds, each testing different aspects of their abilities. First, agility and elemental control; second, close combat and endurance; and finally, a match that would require teamwork.

“As strong as you may be individually,” Rurik said, his tone serious, “teamwork will determine who succeeds and who fails. You must trust each other completely. If you doubt each other even for a second, you’ll lose.”

His gaze fell on Zoe, Dominic, Nikola, and Sara. “I expect each of you to lead by example.”

Zoe felt the weight of Rurik’s words settle over her like a heavy mantle. She knew the others would rely on her, and that she needed to be ready for whatever the tournament threw their way.

When training finally wrapped up, Zoe found herself wandering toward the quiet spot by the pond where