Althea decided to take a walk around the grounds with Melva and Ash, accompanied by her three warrior guards. Rudy walked in front, while Ben and Trudis followed behind. Her steps slowed when she reached the edge of the training ground, where a small group had gathered to rest between drills.

“What are they doing?” Althea curiously asked as her gaze swept over the field.

Rudy turned to her, brushing the dirt off his palms. “They’re sparring and practicing their shifting, my lady. ...