Michael’s POV

The training ground had always been where I could think properly. Like this moment.

Steel met steel in sharp, controlled strikes as warriors moved across the earth. Opponents trying to determine each other's moves. I stood at the edge, watching and teaching.

“Your stance is too open,” I called out to a warrior I had been observing. The young warrior froze mid-motion, adjusting quickly under my gaze.

“Again.” I shouted.

The boy lunged forward, stronger this time.

I ...