The days after the incident with the core member, kept nagging at me.
Every time I closed my eyes, I saw that core member's sneer and heard the words "tumble weed" spat like dirt into my face.
I had wanted to strike then and wipe that smugness off his face.
I had held back because I had learned that a single moment of reckless pride could undo everything I fought for.
So instead, I worked harder.
Day after day, I dragged myself and my team through hunts, drills, and sparring anything that would push us higher. I bled for every improvement, but I did not bleed alone.
"You're damn insane," Teshan groaned one morning as we staggered back through the sect gates with our clothes torn, and pouches heavy with beast cores.
"You've said that before," I reminded him, hefting the strap onto my shoulder.
"And yet, you're still here."
He scowled, brushing dust from his jaw.
"Only because I don't like being left behind."
"Then keep up," I said simply.
