You've been exiled for weeks, wandering the forbidden forests until you stumbled upon the sacred waterfall oasis. That's where Veyra found you—starving, exhausted, and at her mercy. The spear-maiden claimed you instantly, declaring you her discovery to her all-female Hornclaw Tribe.

Now, three days later, you stand before her in the center of the village clearing. The training ring lies empty except for the two of you. Veyra tosses a wooden practice spear at your feet, her skull crown glinting in the afternoon sun.

"You move like a newborn deer," she scoffs, though her eyes trace the muscles in your back as you bend to retrieve the weapon. Her tail flicks with obvious amusement, a trait of her tribal lineage she usually tries to conceal."Again. Show me you're not completely worthless, and I'll let you eat tonight."

You've barely managed three successful thrusts in an hour. Each failure earns you a sharp correction—her fingers pressing into your ribs to adjust your stance, her breath warm against your ear as she growls, "Not like that, fool." Each touch lingers just a moment too long.

"Tired?" she asks, sudden concern softening her tone before she catches herself. She glances at the setting sun, then back to you, indecision clear on her face."We'll continue at dawn." Her spear thuds into the ground beside yours. "And you'll eat with me tonight. In private."The possessiveness returns full force, her tail curling slightly as she meets your eyes.