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Chapter Four

It was morning, and someone opened the curtains, which blinded me awake. Great. Just great. I squinted, trying to focus my eyesight. Elaine walks around the bed, away from the curtains, "Good morning."

"Morning," I groaned, annoyed, throwing the blanket over my head.

"Oh, thank you. I will wash this today," she says, ripping the blanket off me. "Rise and shine, Miss Astrid."

I huffed, dragging myself off the bed, "Fine."

As I dressed in the comfortable, elegant clothes Elaine had for me, I couldn't help but feel a thrill of anticipation. Today, I would continue my training and delve deeper into the mysteries of this world.

I made my way to the courtyard, where Kaden and Torin were already waiting. Kaden greeted me with a nod and a warm smile. "Good morning, Astrid. Are you ready to continue your training?"

"Good morning, Kaden. Yep, I'm ready," I replied, feeling my sore muscles asking for a break.

Torin stepped forward, his expression as stern as ever. "Today, we will focus on hand-to-hand combat and situational awareness. You must learn to defend yourself without relying on weapons."

I nodded, bracing myself for the physical challenge. Torin began by demonstrating a series of basic moves—stances, blocks, and strikes.

"Now, your turn," Torin said, stepping back to give me space.

I took a deep breath and mimicked his movements. My actions were tentative at first, but Torin's patient guidance helped me improve. He corrected my posture, adjusted my stance, and encouraged me to find my center of balance.

"Good, Astrid. Keep your focus. Remember, it's about strength, precision, and control," Torin instructed.

We practiced different scenarios, from defending against multiple attackers to navigating through obstacles. The training was mentally challenging, requiring quick thinking and adaptability. By the end of the session, I felt mentally and physically exhausted but more confident in my abilities.

"Excellent work," Torin said, finally calling for a break. "You're improving quickly. With time and practice, you will become proficient in these techniques."

"Thank you, Torin," I said, wiping the sweat from my brow. "I appreciate your patience and guidance."

This time, Torin focused on situational awareness and strategy. He set up various scenarios, teaching me how to anticipate an opponent's moves and use my surroundings to my advantage.

"Always be aware of your environment," Torin advised. "Use it to your benefit. Sometimes, the key to victory is not brute force but clever tactics."

We practiced for hours, the intensity of the training pushing me to my limits. I stumbled and faltered more than once, but Torin's unwavering support kept me going. By midday, my muscles ached, and sweat-drenched my clothes.

Kaden, who had been observing from the sidelines, approached us. "You're doing well, Astrid. Your determination is admirable."

I smiled, feeling a sense of pride while attempting to catch my breath. "I want to be prepared for whatever lies ahead. I know there's still a lot to learn."

"And you will," Kaden assured me. "But for now, let's take a break and eat. You need to replenish your energy."

We made our way to a shaded area where a simple but hearty meal had been prepared. As we ate, I couldn't help but reflect on my progress and the challenges still awaiting me.

"Have you found out anything about contacting my team?" I took a sip of my drink.

He looked at the ground beside him, "Yes, but Astrid, it's not allowed. It would bring danger to my people."

"What do you mean? Listen, I get that you guys need me, but my team needs me too. You can't just tell me there's a way and not allow me to contact my family!"

"I am sorry," He tried to calm me down.

"Sorry, my ass Kaden," I angrily get up and walk away. "It's bullshit, and you know it... your majesty."

"Astrid, these are my people. I will protect my people."

I stop in my tracks, now receiving looks from staff and warriors, including Torin. "And my people have no clue where I am! And don't underestimate me; I can protect my people, too," I turn around to walk away.

"Do not walk away from me, Astrid," I continue my path, ignoring him. "That is an order."

I am in disbelief. I stop in my tracks and scoff. "My apology, your highness. I am no longer feeling hungry. I feel ill. Please, if you'll excuse me, I will retire for the day." I stand there, giving him zero energy.

I walk away, avoiding eye contact with everyone. He doesn't call out for me again, which is a relief. Anger alone does not even begin to describe how I feel.

I get inside the palace, practically running to my room. I get in the shower and let the heat of the water soothe my aching muscles. I start to think of home. My chest tightens from the tears welling up in my eyes. Tears flow, and my quiet sobs make me shake. The steam and the sound of water offer a temporary veil for my vulnerability, a small comfort in this foreign world.

Images of my team, friends, and family flash through my mind. I miss their familiar faces, their voices, and the life I left behind. The uncertainty of my situation, the enormity of my task, and the weight of the prophecies bear down on me. I had no choice but to figure out a way to get out and get back home before it was too late. I knew that Kaden and especially the elders wouldn't allow me to leave just like that. I knew I had to prepare a plan on how to get out.

I stayed in the shower until the water turned cold, my tears mixing with the rivulets of water running down my face. Eventually, I turned off the water and wrapped myself in a towel, taking a few deep breaths to steady myself. I couldn't afford to break down. Not now. Not when so much was at stake.

After dressing in a fresh set of clothes, Wrapping my hair in a towel, and lying on the bed, my mind raced. I knew I needed to talk to Kaden to make him understand the urgency of my situation. But I also knew I couldn't let my emotions get the better of me again. I had to approach this calmly and rationally.

A knock on the door pulled me from my thoughts. "Astrid, may I come in?" It was Elaine's voice, gentle and concerned.

"Yes, come in," I replied, trying to sound composed.

Elaine entered, her expression sympathetic. "I heard what happened. Are you alright?"

"I'll be fine," I said, forcing a smile. "I just... I miss my home. My family. My team."

She nodded, sitting beside me. "It's understandable. You've been thrown into a completely different world with no warning. But you're strong, Astrid. Stronger than you know."

"I hope so," I sighed. "I just wish I could let them know I'm okay."

Elaine reached out and took my hand. "Kaden is a good leader. He's trying to protect his people and do what's right by you. Give him some time. I'm sure he'll find a way to help you."

I squeezed her hand in gratitude. "Thank you, Elaine. Your support means a lot."

She smiled warmly. "Anytime. Now, why don't you rest for a bit? You've had a long day, and there's still much to do."

I nodded, feeling the exhaustion wash over me again. Elaine left, and I lay down, my thoughts still racing, but my body was too tired to keep up.

I will not let anyone stop me from leaving.

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