I took a shallow breath through my nose, then tried again. I dragged one foot back, but pain shot through my spine, and I wobbled almost dropping to the ground.
I kept pushing forward. Each step felt heavier than the last, like I was walking through thick mud. My chest ached from more than just the rejection. My heart still hadn't settled, and my breath came out uneven.
Elder Dominic gave a slight nod. "Start the clock."
The bell rang loudly, echoing off the walls. "Thirty minutes begin now."
I dragged myself into the woods. I didn't even have the strength to run. My body was screaming at me to fall, to give up, but I didn't. The cold air outside hit my skin, and I staggered, nearly falling again.
The trees stood tall like shadows, the ground wet and uneven beneath my feet. My wings caught on low branches, dragging behind me uselessly. Blood was still seeping from my back, soaking through the dress, dripping with every step I took.
