Arrival at the Amazon Camp
The journey to the Amazon Camp was long and demanding, winding through dense forests and across shallow rivers that reflected the golden sky. It was a place hidden from the eyes of ordinary people, a sacred ground where only the most resilient women were chosen to train.
Daniella's heart pounded with excitement as she and Rose emerged from the thick foliage, their eyes widening at the breathtaking sight before them.
The Amazon Camp was a vast expanse of land, encircled by towering stone walls covered in ancient markings. At the center of the camp stood the Arena of Trials, a massive circular battleground carved into the earth. It was surrounded by smaller training fields, armory huts, and wooden barracks, where the warriors lived.
In the far distance, a large waterfall cascaded down jagged cliffs, feeding into a clear river that served as both a water source and a place of meditation. The air was thick with the scent of burning incense, and the distant sounds of warriors sparring filled the atmosphere.
This was the heart of the Amazons—a place where warriors were forged.
Rose, who had arrived months earlier, grinned at Daniella's awestruck expression.
"Welcome home," she said.
Meeting Gloria
As they walked through the camp, Rose guided Daniella through the maze of training fields and shelters. She pointed out the different divisions within the Amazons—the hunters, strategists, and elite warriors—each trained for a specific purpose.
"We don't just fight," Rose explained. "We survive. We lead. We protect."
Just then, a group of warriors emerged from the sparring grounds, their bodies glistening with sweat. At the front of the group was a striking figure—a tall, muscular woman with sharp features and piercing dark eyes.
"That's Gloria," Rose whispered. "She's one of the best warriors here."
Gloria stopped in front of them, her gaze sweeping over Daniella with mild interest.
"A new recruit?" she asked, voice laced with confidence.
"Daniella," Rose introduced her. "She's here to prove herself."
Gloria smirked, arms crossed. "We'll see if she lasts."
There was no malice in her tone, but there was no warmth either. It was the voice of a warrior who had seen many hopefuls come and go. Daniella held her ground, meeting Gloria's gaze with unwavering determination.
"I will," she replied.
For a moment, Gloria studied her, then gave a small nod before walking away.
"She's tough," Daniella murmured.
"She's more than that," Rose said. "She's a legend. And in two months, she'll be in the tournament."
The Elders of the Amazons
Later that evening, the new recruits were led to the Circle of Elders, a sacred hall where the leaders of the Amazons resided. The structure was carved into the side of a mountain, its entrance flanked by two massive stone statues of ancient warrior queens.
Inside, the air was thick with the scent of burning sage, and ten elderly women sat in a circle, their faces lined with age and wisdom. They wore deep purple robes, their bodies adorned with ancient beads that signified their rank.
The High Elder, a regal woman with silver hair and glowing eyes, stepped forward.
"You come seeking the path of the Amazons," she said, her voice echoing through the chamber. "But the path is not easy. You will train, you will fight, and you will be tested. Only those who endure will rise."
The recruits knelt in respect as the High Elder raised a small bowl of water, sprinkling it over them in a ritual of initiation.
"From this moment forward, you are sisters," she declared. "Your past life is behind you. Your new life begins now."
Daniella felt a surge of pride. She was one step closer to her dream.
Two Months Until the Tournament
For the next two months, the camp was filled with intense training sessions. While Daniella and Rose were not yet eligible for the upcoming tournament, they were determined to learn as much as possible.
Daniella trained tirelessly, pushing her limits in combat, archery, and survival tactics. She sparred against seasoned warriors, learning their techniques, their strengths, and their weaknesses.
Gloria, meanwhile, was preparing for the tournament, where ten warriors would be selected to compete for the title of Amazon Queen. She trained harder than anyone, her movements sharp, her focus unshakable.
Yet, something about her uneased Daniella. There was a hunger in Gloria's eyes, a desire not just to win—but to conquer.
One night, as Daniella rested near the river, an old seer approached her.
The woman's eyes were clouded with age, but her voice was strong.
"Beware the warrior whose heart is heavy with shadows," she murmured. "She will bring fire to the Amazons, and the sisterhood will break."
Daniella's blood ran cold.
She did not understand the full meaning of the prophecy, but one thing was clear—Gloria was destined for something far greater, and far darker, than anyone realized.
To Be Continued in Chapter 3…