The clearing was bathed in morning sunlight, filtered through the crimson leaves of the towering, centuries-old trees that rose like natural pillars around the training grounds. The air was filled with invigorating freshness, mingled with the earthy scent of moss and the resinous fragrance of the surrounding pines. A carpet of crackling dead leaves covered the ground, muffling the footsteps of the cousins who had already gathered: Eli, Jenny, and Seyca, their faces reflecting excitement and a hint of apprehension. Kaiser stood with his arms crossed, watching the scene with his usual confident expression, while Dezeil, imposing at the center, commanded the group's attention with his calm presence.
"Areyos, Yoko, you're up early," Dezeil remarked, his deep voice echoing through the clearing.
"Good morning, Lord Dezeil," Yoko replied with a dazzling smile. "Yes, we went for a walk farther down the mountain."
