Clara’s POV
I changed quickly, pulling on the black training clothes Darius had brought. The fabric was lightweight but sturdy, designed for movement and durability. Not the fancy training gear from Shadowcrest, but something more practical. More serious.
Four minutes. I had four minutes to get to the courtyard. I splashed cold water on my face, tied my hair back, and headed for the door. My body felt stiff, the newly healed scars pulling with each movement. It didn't matter. I had asked for this training, and I wouldn't show weakness now.
Darius was already waiting in the courtyard when I arrived, his expression unreadable in the dim pre-dawn light.
"Three minutes and forty-two seconds," he noted, glancing at a watch on his wrist. "Not bad."
I wasn't sure if it was a compliment or an
