Chapter 54

Mica

“Are you feeling refreshed after a day and a half of rest, Luna?” Carter teases. I laughed at him and I didn't need to tell him how happy I was because I knew that it was obvious in my face.

“I think I will be able to beat you today,” I replied, smiling.

“I look forward to that, Luna,” he replied.

“Yes, and you better be in good shape.” I teased him back. We went to the mat at the center of the training hall. It was just us because Aziz didn’t want anyone to see us while we were training. I don’t know why, but it was a relief for me since I don’t feel pressured. Just the fact that the entire pack knew that I was training made me feel nervous because I didn't want them to expect so much about it since I am a human. 

But after my continuous training with Carter, I could feel my body change drastically in shape and strength. I felt a lot stronger, that's why I ate a lot too. Yes, before, I could stand a day or two without eating, but now, I have a great appetite.

We were about to start when Aziz came. “What are you doing here?” I asked,

“I want to see how you improved,” he replied, and I couldn’t help but feel nervous. 

“It’s OK Luna, you have been doing well during our training. And I never go easy on you, but you managed to land a hit on me.” Carter encouraged me. I smiled at him and nodded.

“Well, that’s good news,” my mate commented.

“But don’t let your hopes out. I’m still learning.” I told him,

“No problem, woman. Now go and show me what you, got,” he said, and I smiled, going on the mat in the middle of the training hall. I had to be at my best. We did some warm-up before I asked, "Carter, are you ready?" with a mix of trepidation and resolve in my voice. He smiled, a trace of mischief glinting in his dark eyes. 

“I'm always ready, Luna. Now, let's see what you got,” he replied.

I sensed Aziz's comforting presence watching from the sidelines as we assumed our positions on the mat. I felt pressure and ease at the same time because I wanted to impress him and demonstrate how far I had come in my training. We started the fight with fluid and accurate maneuvers from Carter and me. He was a great teacher, and I felt safe with him. He challenged me just enough while making sure I was always encouraged and protected.

I experienced an adrenaline rush as the spar got more intense. My instincts took over, and I resorted to the instructions Carter had given me. I concentrated on my footwork as I dodged and ducked his blows. I could feel Aziz looking at me, and his persistent focus made me feel both anxious and strong. I was resolved to make him proud and demonstrate to him my fighting prowess. I made an effort to anticipate Carter's quick and deliberate strikes. I was successful in hitting a couple of targets, and he nodded in agreement. My confidence increased with each successful strike, and I experienced a surge of excitement.

I lost sight of my mate as the spar went on because I was so engrossed in the action. I was concentrating on my motions and the art of combat with Carter by my side. I made an effort to put what I had learned—from the various attacks to the defensive stances—into practice. Carter offered insightful criticism and supportive words that helped me hone my approach.

Aziz watched from the side, his gaze a mixture of adoration and worry. Watching me fight with Carter was no different from his usual protectiveness of me. However, he was aware of how critical it was for me to have self-defense skills, particularly in a dangerous environment like the one we lived in. He would offer some encouragement in between rounds, his pride ringing through his voice. “Keep going, Mica; you're doing fantastic,” he shouted. His words of support strengthened my resolve, and I forced myself to work harder. It meant the world to me that I could tell that Aziz was genuinely interested in my development.

I moved purposefully, putting all of my attention into each strike and parry. Although my movements were not as smooth as Carter's, I could feel myself getting better with each conversation. I could feel my muscles beginning to tire as the spar drew to a close, but I didn't let that stop me. I concentrated on breathing deeply while maintaining my composure. 

Carter persisted in pushing me and putting my reflexes to the test. He pushed me to dig deep and discover the strength within myself by providing advice and motivation. Aziz's eyes were on me the entire spar. He could see the fierceness in my eyes and the desire I had to defend our pack and be an equal partner with him.

As I deflected one of Carter's blows and quickly countered with a jab, I experienced a rush of exhilaration. He skillfully avoided my attack and nodded his head in my direction. He seemed proud of my development, and that gave me even more motivation to keep proving myself.

As we continued to spar, time seemed to fly by. The thud of our kicks and the clang of our blades filled the room with the sound of our motions. I forced myself to continue as the spar neared its end to prove to Aziz that I was capable of defending both myself and our pack.

After Carter finally stopped the fight, we both stood back, exhausted from the struggle. Although my muscles were worn out, I felt a sense of accomplishment in my heart. With a proud grin on his face, he remarked, "You're getting better and better, Luna." I felt a mix of tiredness and joy as I turned to gaze at Aziz. He came closer, his eyes glowing with adoration and pride. 

"You did well, woman," he replied, his voice warm. "I'm pleased with how far your training has brought you." I grinned because I felt accepted and validated by him. 

"Thank you, Carter, and appreciate your presence, Aziz, and I'm committed to improving even though I still have a lot to learn," I replied,

“I knew you had it in you, woman, and you were great." My heart swelled with joy at what he said. I was more than simply his mate; I was a member of the pack, a Luna growing in power and capability.

"Thank you, Aziz. Your belief in me means everything," I said with a smile as I felt a sense of achievement rushes over me.

I felt his power engulf me as he pulled me into a loving embrace and said, "I have faith in you, my Luna. You are strong and capable, and I will always be here to support you."

"Without Carter's direction, I couldn't have accomplished it," I replied and looked at our gamma who was watching. 

"Luna, you're improving so much. Keep up the good work, and you'll get even better."

I was very grateful as I stood there, being held by my mate and having my dependable trainer at my side. I was fortunate to have Carter as a capable tutor and Aziz, who was such a loving and devoted mate.

I was aware at that point that I was not traveling alone. I had my pack with me, and Aziz was there to help and support me at every turn. Their confidence in me gave me the confidence to know that I could handle any problem we faced, not just as a Luna but also as a powerful and skilled mate. And I eagerly anticipated continuing to develop and learn while having the unwavering backing of people who had unflinching faith in me