The sun had barely risen when the estate buzzed with activity. Men and women moved like shadows—quiet, precise, deadly.
Aria – Learning to Fight
Raiden took me to the estate's training room, a cold space filled with weapons and mirrors.
"If you want to survive here, you have to learn how to fight," he said, handing me a gun.
My hands trembled.
"I don't know if I can."
He studied me for a moment.
"You can. You have to."
---
Raiden – Breaking Down Walls
I watched her as she struggled with the weight of the weapon, her fear, her determination.
"Don't be afraid of the gun," I told her. "Be afraid of not knowing how to use it."
She nodded, biting her lip, focusing.
---
Aria – Facing the Mirror
Hours passed. My aim was shaky, my moves awkward. But something inside me shifted.
This wasn't just about survival anymore. It was about taking control.
---
The First Lesson
Raiden showed me how to reload, how to hold my stance, how to breathe through the chaos.
"Focus," he said. "Your mind is the most powerful weapon."
I felt a spark of something fierce.
---
Unexpected Visitor
Suddenly, the door opened. Luca stepped in, face grim.
"We have a problem," he said.
Raiden's expression darkened.
"Talk."
---
Luca – The Warning
"Il Principe's men have been spotted near the estate. Scouting."
A chill spread through the room.
"They're coming," Luca said. "Soon."
---
Aria – Ready or Not
My heart pounded. This was no longer a game.
"Then we make sure they regret it."
Raiden's eyes met mine, fierce and unyielding.
"Together."
---
End of Chapter 31