Chapter 20: Becoming Swift as the Wind

Randelle

"You'll never pin me to the dirt like a lame elk at this rate!"

Kieran's mocking voice cut through my concentration as I circled the grass sparring ring, sweat dripping down my spine. I gritted my teeth, centering my focus. Don't let him rile you up.

Across from me, Kieran prowled like a wolf sizing up prey. His sharp eyes missed nothing as he studied my stance, waiting for an opening to strike.

"Feet light as a dancer! Know where my next blow will land before I throw it!" he barked, words punctuated by a sudden flurry of jabs that had me dancing and twisting to evade.

The repetitive mantra played in my head as I pivoted and ducked Kieran's probing attacks. Stay loose as a reed in the wind. Sway and weave, anticipating his moves. Avoid damage as much as dealing it.

But fatigue weighted my limbs after our hour already sparring. I moved one beat too slow, and Kieran's open palm cracked hard across my cheekbone. Pain exploded across my face, dazing me.

"Pay attention, gi