Page 276 of Axis of Fire

I’d never been an introvert.

I usually enjoyed being around people.

But right now, I would’ve given anything for us to be alone.

The constant noise was already getting on my nerves.

“This one should work,” Tarven said, holding out a small dagger.

“We’ll start simple.

If you don’t control the weapon, the weapon controls you.”

Tarven looked far too serious.

Or maybe I just wasn’t taking this little masterclass seriously enough.

The moment the dagger settled into my hand, I immediately felt its weight.

I’d never been physically strong.

And six months of training definitely hadn’t been enough to build real strength.

“No.

That’s already a mistake.”

He stepped closer.

Almost too close.

Softly but firmly, he adjusted my grip.

“Don’t hold it like you’re afraid to drop it.

Your grip should feel alive.”

His fingers tightened gently around my wrist.

And my heart tightened with them.

“You need to feel the moment the blade becomes an extension of your arm.”

I exhaled quietly, trying to follow his instructions as he finally let go.

“Second rule.

You don’t swing the weapon.”

He stepped back and raised his palm.

“You guide it.”

Then he shifted slightly to the side.

“Aim not where I am now…”

Another smooth step.