The shared breakfast was a quiet, surprisingly comfortable affair. The fresh meal and company were welcome, and the conversation stayed light. Soon after, Vance and I completed the final stretches of our morning training.
As we began the walk back towards the town, the group fell into its usual configuration. Cassandra and Princess Aurelia walked a few paces behind, their voices a soft murmur. Cassandra was offering advice, her tone earnest.
"You must remember, Sister Auera, that true strength isn't always about visible power. Your quiet observation… these are weapons too. Use them as much as you can."
I tuned them out, focusing on Vance beside me. We had already discussed the trial's basics via our mental link. But I guessed that one final point still needed emphasis.
I felt his attention focused on me.
