Morning in the Jade Lotus Sect usually began with discipline.
That discipline, however, depended greatly on who was teaching.
Today, the disciples found themselves regretting that detail.
"Again," Veronica said softly.
A line of girls stood barefoot on the packed earth of the training yard, dressed in light practice clothes that clung more and more to their bodies the longer the session went on. Sweat had already darkened the fabric around their backs, under their breasts, and at the waist, where their belts had been removed for freer movement. Their hair was tied up, but loose strands still stuck to flushed cheeks and damp necks.
Veronica moved through them with calm steps, hands clasped behind her back at first, only bringing them forward to help the girls fix their stance.
"Your body follows your mind," she continued. "If your thoughts scatter, your stance weakens. If your heart flares up too quickly, your sword will do the same."
