The Ashen Rebellion

16 | A plan

AS THE FIRST LIGHT of dawn spills over the camp, casting long shadows across the training ground, the rebels gather with a sense of anticipation. The morning air is crisp, carrying a hint of the day's impending heat. Kael stands at the forefront, his face partially obscured by a bandana, sleeves rolled up to reveal his muscular arms. His stern demeanor commands respect as he prepares to lead another grueling training session.

Nyssa stands beside Lyra, her attention divided between the rising sun and Kael's commanding presence. Kael's focus shifts to Arjun, who is struggling with his form.

''Arjun, you call that a defensive stance? Fix it before you embarrass yourself further,'' Kael barks, his voice sharp and unwavering.

Nyssa leans discreetly toward Lyra, crossing her arms. ''Have you ever noticed he commands us like we're some soldiers in a military squadron?''

Lyra smirks, leaning closer. ''You didn't know?''

''Know what?''

''He used to be a lieutenant in the Firelord's army.''

Nyssa's eyes widen. ''What?'' 

This revelation hits her like a blow. All this time, they had been wary of her betrayal because she was a Wyrn, while Kael had been working for the actual enemy? The thought of him possibly being a double agent gnawed at her.

"Lyra," Kael's voice cuts through their whispering, "Since you seem so keen on talking, I'll assume you've mastered the maneuvers enough to spar with me?"

Lyra looks sheepish, clearly torn. Saying no would make her look weak, but losing a sparring match to Kael would be even worse.

Much to everyone's surprise, Nyssa steps forward. ''I've mastered them.''

Lyra mouths a grateful 'Thank you.'

Kael barely spares Nyssa a glance. ''Come spar with me.''

Nyssa reaches for her sword, but Kael stops her with a harsh command. ''Without weapons.''

Hesitant but determined, she stepped into the center of the training ground. Kael turned to the others, his tone instructive. ''Today, we'll focus on blocks, deflects, and breaking out of holds. Watch carefully.''

Kael stretched, then squared off against Nyssa. ''Hit me.''

Without hesitation, she throws a punch. Kael dodged effortlessly, grabbing her waist and flipping her over his shoulder. She crashed to the ground with a groan but quickly scrambled to her feet, adopting a defensive stance.

"Is that all you've got?" He taunts, his voice laced with challenge.

Anger flared within her, and she launched two quick strikes, both of which he dodges and deflects with ease. He maneuvered behind her, locking her in a chokehold. She slams back into him, surprising him enough to break free. Gasping for breath, she turned to face him again, only for Kael to tackle her to the ground, pinning her with a knee and both arms.

Struggling against his iron grip, she lets a whine escape her lips. A spark of heat ignites in her palm, but Kael's sharp voice halts her. ''No powers.''

Defeated, she sagged underneath him. ''You give up?'' He asked, eyes gleaming with some unreadable emotion.

With a sigh, she nods. He released her, offering a hand to help her up. She smacked it away, still stinging from his harsh treatment.

Kael stood, addressing the group. ''Nyssa's mistake was her breathing. She let her frustration dictate her actions instead of maintaining control. In a fight, your breathing is crucial. Lose control of it, and you lose the fight.''