Caius woke before dawn.
The underground hideout was quiet, save for the occasional murmur of guards on patrol. The night had been restless—his mind refused to let go of Elias's words, of the weight of what it meant to stay.
For the first time in years, he wasn't running.
But was he ready to fight?
He made his way to the training grounds—a worn, open cavern lit by torches and enchanted lanterns. A handful of rebels were already there, practicing with swords and bows, their movements sharp and efficient.
Garran stood in the center, waiting. A wooden practice sword rested against his shoulder. "You're late."
Caius frowned. "The sun isn't even up."
Garran tossed him a wooden sword. "War doesn't wait for the sun."
Caius barely caught it in time, fumbling the grip.
Selene leaned against a nearby column, watching. "This should be fun."
Caius scowled. "You're really enjoying this, aren't you?"
"A little."
Garran ignored them. "Show me what you know."
Caius hesitated, then took a stance—feet planted, sword raised. It felt… awkward. Unfamiliar. He had fought before, but only in desperation—dodging, running, surviving. A proper fight? That was different.
Garran didn't wait. He struck.
The impact jarred up Caius's arm. He staggered, barely blocking the second blow. Garran's attacks were relentless, precise, each one forcing Caius to react.
The rebels watching muttered among themselves. Selene sighed. "This is embarrassing."
Caius grit his teeth. He had survived the ruins of Evernight, had fought Hollow Knights and outlived countless scavengers. He wasn't weak.
But survival wasn't the same as strength.
Garran knocked the sword from his grip and stepped back. "Sloppy."
Caius wiped sweat from his brow. "Thanks for the encouragement."
"Your instincts are good," Garran admitted. "But instinct alone won't save you." He narrowed his eyes. "Your power—have you ever used it in a fight before?"
Caius hesitated. He had used it by accident—to escape, to dodge death. But to control it? No.
Garran seemed to read his thoughts. "Then it's time to learn."
Selene pushed off the wall. "This should be interesting."
Caius swallowed hard. He wasn't sure if interesting was the right word.
Because if he couldn't control this power—
Then it could control him.