Game of Survival - A Tobias Eaton Story

- 6 -

Kate's POV

The next morning, I woke up before anyone else, eager to seize the day. I quickly changed into my training clothes, tied my hair into a braid, and laced up my boots. Moving quietly, I slipped out of the dorm and headed toward the training room. I found a spot and sat down to finish tying my boots before claiming one of the orange punching bags. I began to throw punches, practicing the techniques Four and Eric had taught us the day before.

As I focused on my training, I was unaware that Four had walked in behind me, observing my determination. I pushed myself to work on my strength, fully aware that I was not only competing against the other initiates but also the Dauntless-born, and our scores would be ranked together. I was determined to survive.

Once the rest of the group had woken up and joined me in the training room, Four called for shooting practice. I maneuvered through the course, hitting every dummy with surprising accuracy. A smile crept across my face as I finished, feeling a surge of pride in my performance. When we back in the training room for sparring, I noticed Four walking around the room.

"You're doing very well, Kate," Four said as he walked past me.

I felt a blush rise to my cheeks at his compliment. "Thanks, Four. I guess all that practice is paying off," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady despite the warmth spreading through me.

He turned slightly, a hint of a smile playing at the corners of his lips. "It's not just practice. You've got a natural talent. But don't let it go to your head," he teased.

I chuckled. "Oh, I won't. But if you keep giving me compliments like that, I might just start believing I could take you on in a fight."

Four raised an eyebrow, crossing him arms over his chest. "Is that a challenge? Because I've trained against some tough opponents. Are you sure you want to test yourself against me?"

I met his gaze, my heart racing. "Maybe I do. I like a good challenge. Besides, I have a feeling you'd go easy on me."

He stepped closer, his voice dropping to a low, teasing tone. "You might be surprised. I've been known to go all out when it comes to training. But then again, maybe I'd be willing to make an exception... for you."

"Really? How generous," I said, fighting back a grin. "But I'm not sure if I'd want you to hold back. I need to toughen up if I want to keep up with you and the rest of the initiates."

"Well, I can show you some moves after training if you're up for it," he suggested.

"Count me in. Just don't blame me if I end up knocking you out," I replied, feigning confidence as I fought the flutter in my stomach.

"Fair warning: I'm not that easy to take down," he said, a playful glint in his eyes.

"Challenge accepted," I declared, a smile spreading across my face as I turned back to the training bags.

I couldn't help but replay that conversation in my head. Unfortunately, I was pulled out of my thoughts when I noticed Christina getting knocked down by Molly. I walked over and stood beside Tris.

Molly knocked Christina to the ground, crawling on top of her. She threw punches, and Christina managed to dodge a few, but Molly kept coming, landing blows to her jaw, nose, and mouth. In a moment of panic, I grabbed someone's arm for support. Looking down at the tan skin I'd latched onto, I realized it was Four standing beside me.

"S-sorry," I stammered, my voice barely above a whisper.

"Don't worry about it," he replied calmly.

I held on tightly, needing something solid as I watched blood trickle down the side of Christina's nose. I hoped desperately that she wouldn't fall unconscious; thankfully, she remained conscious as the fight dragged on. Eventually, Christina raised her hand, gasping for breath.