Eli burst out of the city gate, maintaining a jogging pace as he approached a familiar guard. "Seen my brother come through here?" he panted.

  The guard nodded, recognizing him immediately. "About ten minutes ago, Eli. Heading to the woods for training, are you? Watch out, though — there have been ghystbryd sightings. If one spots you, bolt. Its kin won't be far behind."

  Eli's brow furrowed, taking in the warning. "Thanks for the heads-up," he replied, then launched into a sprint.

  Two miles later, just as Eli considered pushing for a third, he reached a junction where the road kissed the forest edge. Demetrius' voice cut through his exhaustion, and Eli looked up to find his brother on horseback, approaching him. He paused, panting heavily, and used his shirt to wipe away the sweat that clung to his skin.

  "Thought you'd never get here," Demetrius teased, slowing his horse. "Where's your steed?"

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  "Left it behind," Eli managed between breaths. "Thought I'd be faster on foot."

  Demetrius smirked. "Guess we're doubling up then." He tossed a gourd to Eli. "Drink up. We've got ground to cover."

  Gratefully, Eli took a sip, then clambered onto the horse behind Demetrius. With a nudge, they ventured deeper into the forest, following a trail that ran parallel to a ravine. The dense canopy overhead allowed only dappled sunlight to pierce through, casting a play of shadows and light on the forest floor, which was carpeted in a mix of vibrant and withered leaves.

  Upon reaching a familiar training spot, they dismounted. As Demetrius fetched wooden swords from his pack, Eli took a final swig from the gourd. However, in his haste, he choked on the last gulp, drawing a chuckle from his brother.

  Eli, still recovering from his coughing fit, caught the sword handle thrust in his direction. As he gripped it, Demetrius began listing the rules, each point punctuated with seriousness.

  "Joints: one point. A stab to the chest: one point. Everything else: half a point. We go five points a round, and it all ends either at sunset or if one of us taps out. And watch that blade alignment," Demetrius said, his tone firm yet eager. "From now, you have a hundred seconds to position yourself."

  Eli grinned, twirling his sword. "No magic, you sneaky wizard. But soon, maybe that won't matter," he said with a sly wink.

  Demetrius raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "What's that supposed to mean, Eli? But alright, let's table that discussion. Ready... set... go!"

  With those words, they dashed off in opposite directions. The woods came alive with the sounds of rustling leaves and snapping twigs as the brothers darted through. Demetrius found an advantage point first. Spotting a sturdy, low-hanging branch, he made a calculated jump, hauling himself up. As he climbed higher, he nestled himself between two branches, perfectly camouflaged, yet poised for an aerial strike. The game was afoot.