After a while, Ryan checked the time and got up. He called Mary along, and the two of them headed back to the training ground together.
By the time they arrived, everyone was already there. Small groups sat on the ground, talking animatedly, their faces filled with anticipation. Ever since lunch ended, no one had been able to sit still.
Ryan walked to the front and coughed lightly.
Instantly, all chatter stopped.
Everyone sprang to their feet and lined up neatly, eyes fixed forward, waiting for the next command from the company commander.
Mary stepped forward lightly and stopped at the front of the formation. Her gaze swept across the faces before her, steady and calm. A faint smile curved her lips as she spoke, her voice neither loud nor sharp, yet it carried clearly to everyone present.
"I know what you're all waiting for," she said slowly. "Before taking the medicinal potion, I want to ask you one thing. Are you willing to submit to me?"
There was no hesitation.
