As I finished my training with Master Cyrus, the sun was starting to set beyond the horizon. My whole body was bathed in sweat, my muscles hurt, and every joint felt overworked. I prepared to leave the practice area as I wiped the perspiration from my forehead with the back of my palm. But Master Cyrus' voice stopped me in my tracks.He called, "Anna," in a firm and solemn voice.My chest was still heaving from the stress of the workout when I turned to face him. Although Master Cyrus was a man of few words, his comments had weight when he did speak. I gave him my whole attention.He walked up to me, his piercing eyes fixed on mine. He continued in a quiet, thoughtful voice, "I need to talk with you."Uncertain of what had sparked this talk, I nodded. We had spoken about many areas of my training and our common objectives, but this seemed different and more intimate."Anna, I've watched you closely over these years," Master Cyrus said to start. "I've seen your tenacity, devotion to y
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