The training commenced with the usual routine—ten laps of field running, with the knights shirtless, as per the rules.
Anna was truly exhausted by the exercise, her face paling upon completion, but she refused to withdraw despite the knights' evident concerns. Her stubborn determination silenced them. She even had dismissed Rafe and Kiev, seemingly furious over some earlier event.
Clara and Emily arrived to observe the training as usual. After the run, Eric was prepared to pause the session, but the princess insisted on proceeding.
"Can we hold the weapons now? You said it would be part of the training, but I have not yet wielded a sword," she pressed.
"Don't you think it's too soon? Perhaps we could do another exercise instead. I'm not sure you're ready for this," the second-in-command knight suggested cautiously.
"No, no! We can do the next exercise tomorrow. I must start somehow. Please, Sir Navin," Anna pleaded.
