The sun was high over the field, and the clashing swords and grunts of the warriors filled the air. Ronan stood at the edge, nervously balled his fists to grip to stop his hands from shaking. Across the field, Celeste was waiting, her silver armor seeming to glow in the sunlight.
Taking a deep breath, Ronan stepped forward toward her. Each step felt heavier than the last, as if the ground itself sought to hold him back. Once he finally stood in front of her, he paused, his voice barely above a whisper.
"Umm. M-Ma'am Valefor?" he stuttered.
Celeste spun around immediately, her sharp eyes fixed on him. She stood tall, exuding authority, and for that moment at least, the ground beneath Ronan seemed to vanish from under him.
"So, you're the boy Hero Aurelia recommended," she said, her tone sharp and skeptical. She crossed her arms and studied him like a hawk.
"Yes, ma'am," Ronan managed to say, standing stiffly under her gaze.
