Aria woke early, her body still adjusting to the training schedule Lyra had started her on. Every muscle ached, but it was a good ache. The kind that meant she was getting stronger.
She dressed quickly in the training clothes Lyra had given her and made her way to the communal kitchen. A few early risers were already there, and they greeted her warmly. No one stared at her or whispered behind her back like they had in Silvermoon.
"Big day tomorrow," Marcus said, sliding a plate of eggs toward her. "The joining ceremony. Nervous?"
"A little," Aria admitted, sitting down. "But mostly excited. This feels right, you know?"
"We're glad to have you." Marcus grinned. "Even if Lyra is going to work you to death in training."
"I heard that!" Lyra's voice called from the doorway. She strode in,
