The morning sun cast long shadows across the training grounds of the Ambrose estate. Eight figures stood in precise formation. Grim and Huangyan approached from the manor, their footsteps silent on the gravel path.
"Five men, three women," Chen Xing announced, falling into step beside them. "All trained under Orvannis's third son."
Grim nodded, studying the assembled warriors as they drew closer. Each stood at attention. Their armor was well-maintained but showed signs of use—these were not ceremonial guards but experienced soldiers.
"Lady Huangyan will conduct the evaluations," Grim announced as they reached the formation. "I want to see not just their martial skills, but their adaptability and judgment."
Huangyan stepped forward, her amber eyes scanning the line. "I'll test them in pairs first, then individually."
