Ashe declared the rest day before anyone else could suggest pretending they did not need one.
Nobody argued.
That alone told Vane how tired they actually were.
"We've all changed rank since the last time we properly tested against each other," Ashe said, stretching one shoulder across her chest with the solemnity of someone presenting a battlefield plan. "I'd rather learn what that means here than halfway through a fight where being surprised gets someone killed."
Nyx sat cross-legged beside the dead fire.
"Wonderful."
She stretched her arms overhead.
"Violence as a bonding exercise. My favorite tradition."
Ashe looked at her.
"You say that every time."
"Because it's true every time."
"You also enjoy yourself every time."
Nyx shrugged.
"I contain contradictions. It's part of my charm."
Mara had already opened her ledger.
Charcoal in hand.
"I'll score."
Valerica looked over.
"Absolutely not."
Mara paused.
"Why?"
