Page 36 of Rebel's Fated Mate

I stepped forward, my heart pounding with anticipation. Kael led us through a series of drills, pushing us to our limits. \

He turned to the others. "Good work," he said, nodding. "Now, let's move on to conditioning. High knees, everyone! Get those knees up, higher!"

We started the drill, lifting our knees as high as we could. Sweat poured down our faces, and muscles burned, but no one complained. We were preparing for the battles ahead.[MN86]

"Keep those knees up, higher!" Kael barked, but there was a hint of a smile on his face.

"Like this, Captain?" I teased, exaggerating my movements.

He chuckled, shaking his head. "Just like that, Weaver. Just like that."

We moved on to squats, lunges, and push-ups, each exercise pushing us further. Kael's voice was a constant presence, encouraging and correcting.

"Elara, focus on your form," he said, coming over to adjust my stance during a squat. "Keep your back straight."

I nodded, correcting my posture. "Thanks, Kael."

He gave a quick nod, then moved on to the next person, always attentive, always pushing us to be our best.

After conditioning, we moved on to combat skills.[MN87] "Pair up," Kael instructed. "We're going to practice hand-to-hand combat."

I partnered with Lyra, and we squared off, ready to begin.

"Remember, control your strikes," Kael said, demonstrating a series of moves. "It's about precision, not just power."

We started sparring, moving in sync with each other. Lyra and I exchanged blows, each trying to outmaneuver the other.

"Nice block," Lyra said, grinning as she deflected my punch.

"Thanks," I replied, catching her off guard with a quick jab.

Kael watched us closely, offering tips and corrections. "Good, Elara. Keep your guard up, Lyra."

The session continued, with Kael moving between pairs, his presence a constant reminder of what we were fighting for.

Finally, Kael called for a break. "Well done, everyone. Take five."

I wiped the sweat from my brow, glancing at Kael. He smiled, a look of pride in his eyes.

"You're doing great, Elara," he said, his voice softening. "Keep it up."

I nodded, feeling a rush of determination. "I will. Thank you."

As we rested, I couldn't help but feel grateful for these moments. [MN88]

After a grueling morning, Kael gathered us around a makeshift weapon rack. "Today, we train with swords, knives, and staffs. Watch closely."

He picked up a sword, moving with a grace and precision that captivated everyone. Each strike and parry was fluid and powerful. "Pair up and practice. Elara, with me."

I grabbed a sword, feeling its weight in my hand. It was heavier than I expected, but Kael’s steady presence gave me confidence. He showed me how to balance it with my magic, enhancing my strikes and defenses.

"Use your magic to anticipate my moves," he instructed, launching into an attack.

I focused, feeling the energy pulse through me. The sword felt like an extension of my arm, moving almost of its own accord. Our blades clashed, and sparks flew. I could sense Kael’s movements, almost as if we were connected on a deeper level.

"Good, Elara. Keep it up," Kael praised, his eyes gleaming with pride.

We sparred until we were both breathless, ending in a flurry of strikes and parries. I focused my energy into a final, precise move, disarming him.