The Sapphire of War

Chapter 4

"What is this place?" asked Daybreak.

Downpour had led the group to a large building just outside the palace walls. It had dark gray walls and was scattered with barrels filled with weapons -- spears, swords, bows, arrows, daggers, and slingshots, to name a few. Also posted across the room were targets, stands holding every type of armor imaginable, and detailed maps of Palem.

"This used to be a training building for soldiers in the MistWing army," Downpour explained. "It was recently abandoned and replaced by a renovated training center within the palace. I think it would be perfect for you, Droplet."

Daybreak's training began immediately, Downpour acting as her instructor. Daybreak learned the best ways to hold swords and spears and how to fight with them. She spent countless hours shooting at targets with crossbows, bows and arrows, and slingshots, and practiced blocking attacks with a shield. She even practiced claw-to-claw combat with Downpour and Gale (both of them wearing armor thick enough to block a WoodWing's claws). 

Just one day before the tournament, Downpour told Daybreak that they would be sparring one last time. "No weapons this time," he said, slipping on a set of golden armor that contrasted sharply with his light blue scales. "I want to test you in claw-to-claw combat." Daybreak nodded and positioned herself.

The fight was simple at first -- basic moves, blocks, and attacks. Daybreak then realized that the fight was too simple. If Downpour truly wanted to test her, he would be doing something other that basic moves. There's got to be something more to this.

She began to study Downpour more carefully. There -- his tail flicked just sharply enough to be deliberate, and he swiftly winked his left eye. Without missing a beat, Daybreak lunged to the right, deliberately tipping over a barrel of swords. Sure enough, the swords bounced off Gale's armor -- she had been preparing to lunge at Daybreak from behind. Gale winced, then grinned at Daybreak.

"We'd better leave now," said Downpour. "We've got a tournament to win."