The cold air bit at Nicole's cheeks as she and Jasper made their way back to the castle, the sun glimmering off the snow like millions of tiny diamonds scattered across the landscape. The training session had invigorated her, and she felt a renewed sense of purpose coursing through her veins. She had faced Jasper's challenges head-on, and though she had stumbled at times, each misstep only fueled her determination to become stronger. She practiced with Jasper day and night as he was determined to make her stronger and build her strength.
As they entered the castle, the warmth enveloped them, a stark contrast to the biting cold outside. Nicole shook off the chill, feeling the blood return to her limbs as they moved through the grand hallways adorned with tapestries and ornate decorations. Jasper's presence loomed beside her, an ever-watchful shadow.
