283 Regrowth (1)

Sweat ran down my back as my weak muscles threatened to give up. I clenched my teeth as I held my form. 

A week had passed since I had last spoken with Mother. She and Aoife had left the next day for a far away competition, leaving me mostly alone in the house. 

Aoife had spoken with me before she left, though I could see her pity in her eyes, and it was painful. I cut that conversation short – I didn't need or want her pity. 

My leg gave up and I collapsed on the floor.

"Damn it…" I mumbled, panting and out of breath. I had been training every single day since they left and seeing so little progress was painful.

I forced myself to get up and walk a lap around the large training hall. Then, I grabbed my towel and wiped my sweat off. My legs were shaking from all the effort. Time, I told myself. It will take time.

I headed to my room to wash myself and rest.