The first light of dawn crept across the sky, spilling golden rays over the landscape. Umbra stood waiting outside the house, his six students stirring inside. They rubbed their eyes and yawned as they greeted his call. "Up and out," he ordered, his voice smooth but carrying that weight that pulled them instantly to attention.
They stumbled outdoors, still groggy but rapidly becoming more alert with the sight of their instructor standing ready and waiting, his eyes calm and fierce.
He pointed to a line of weapons laid out in the dirt. "Pick one," he said, the tone of his voice brooking no hesitation. They exchanged glances before each reached for a sword. Umbra watched them with a tinge of approval.
"Perfect," he said, nodding. "The basic always is the foundation. And today, I want all of you to come at me with everything you've got. Hold nothing back. Fight as if you mean to kill me."
