Fiona's POV
The early morning air was crisp as I made my way through the woods, heading toward the riverbank where I had agreed to meet Stella. The rising sun painted the sky in shades of orange and pink, casting long shadows through the trees. I was nervous but resolute. Today marked the start of something new.
As I approached the clearing, I saw Stella standing by the water, her arms crossed and her expression stern. She was dressed in all black, her hair tied back tightly. The sight of her no-nonsense demeanor made my nerves spike, but I pushed them aside.
"You're late," she said without preamble as I came into view.
"By two minutes," I replied, trying to sound confident.
"Two minutes could mean life or death in battle," she shot back, her eyes narrowing. "We're here to prepare you for the worst, Fiona. Don't take this lightly."
"I don't," I assured her, standing taller. "I'm ready."
