The morning began with Aleks leading the group out of the camp, his commanding voice cutting through the misty air. "We're starting with the basics. If your body fails, your magic will too. A strong foundation means stronger results."
The crew gathered reluctantly, the echoes of their brief rest clinging to their movements. Seisyll stretched lazily, his expression unimpressed. "Are we training or preparing for a marathon?"
Aleks shot him a sharp look. "You'll find out soon enough. Get in line."
Arthur silently took his place, his eyes scanning the group. Fedlimid stood a little straighter than before, though the lingering shadows of his recent struggles clung to his expression. Melite tightened her boots, giving Aleks a look of mild defiance.
Aleks wasted no time. He had started early in the morning to build a circuit: sprints across the uneven terrain, push-ups in the damp earth, and climbing the lower branches of the towering trees.
