Chapter 21

Maxine's POV

“We are just getting started. You have a lot to learn, and a long way to go. But if you keep at it, you might just survive.”

His words were not comforting, but they gave me a glimmer of hope. Maybe, just maybe, I could get through this. I took a deep breath and nodded. “I will do my best,” I said, determination creeping into my voice.

Barron nodded. “Good. Now get back up. We still have a lot of work to do. We do not get lazy around here.”

I groaned as I stood up, every part of my body protesting. But I picked up the sword again and resumed my training. It was going to be a long and painful ride, but I was willing to prove myself. For the first time in a long while, I felt a flicker of hope. Maybe this was the beginning of something better. Maybe I could become strong, and earn the respect of those around me. Only time will tell.

***

I looked around the training ground and it was overwhelming. Despite my initial ginge