Chapter 79

VALERIA’S POV The next morning, training began. Yuvonne wanted me to start by locating the source of my power, the wellspring from which my strength was drawn. It sounded simple in theory, but the reality was far from it. I sat cross-legged on the cool earth, my hands resting on my knees, my back straight as she had instructed. The morning air was crisp, carrying the scent of damp soil and pine. It should have been calming, but my patience was already wearing thin. “Close your eyes,” Yuvonne ordered, her voice steady but firm. I did as she asked, inhaling deeply, trying to settle into this so-called meditation. “Now, I need you to disconnect from everything around you,” she continued. “The wind, the noises, even my voice. Your body is here, but your mind must go inward.” Easier said than done. I could still hear the rustling of the trees, the distant chatter of warriors training in another part of the camp, the rhythmic tapping of Yuvonne’s nails against the hilt of her dagger. My sens