The week before our departure passed in a blur of preparation and goodbyes. Students we'd trained, fought beside, protected. All watching us pack with expressions ranging from gratitude to abandonment.

"You're really leaving," Lysandra said, helping me sort through weapons in the armory. "For six months."

"We don't have a choice." I set aside a blade that needed sharpening. "It's this or lose the bond entirely."

"I know. Doesn't make it easier." She pulled out a small dagger, well-balanced, ...