The War God Alpha's Arranged Bride (Evelyn and Alexander) novel Chapter 180

**Steps Along Forgotten Roads**
**By Sophia Reed**
**Chapter 180: Training**

Evelyn had long since lost track of how many times her tightly clenched fist had met the unyielding surface of the punching bag that swung in front of her. Initially, she had felt a rush of excitement, buoyed by the guidance she had received on how to execute the perfect punch. Yet, as the count climbed past ten, a distinct burn began to manifest in her muscles, creeping into her joints and settling heavily in her arms. A thin layer of sweat began to form on her skin, a testament to her escalating effort.

“Jesus Christ,” she muttered under her breath, a mix of frustration and determination coursing through her veins.

When Evelyn had first approached Erik and Thomas about their earlier proposition to train her, she had been filled with equal parts hope and trepidation. She was uncertain of what lay ahead, and yet something deep inside her craved the challenge. The moment she stepped into their presence, both men welcomed her with broad smiles that widened even further upon noticing her bare face.

“It’s wonderful to see you again,” Erik said, his voice warm and inviting.

“I’ve thought a lot about your offer,” she began, her cheeks tinged with a hint of shyness. “I’ve realized that it would be wise for me to learn how to defend myself, just in case the need arises.”

Thomas nodded in agreement, his expression encouraging. “Fantastic! We’re actually heading to one of the training tents now. How about you join us and observe a few sessions?”

Evelyn’s heart raced with anticipation as she eagerly nodded, falling into step behind the two men. She was determined to keep a low profile, to blend into the background as much as possible. Over the next few hours, she found herself entranced, watching over half a dozen of Alexander’s soldiers demonstrate their impressive fighting techniques. Each movement was fluid and precise, a testament to years of training.

From time to time, either Thomas or Erik would glance back at her, checking in to see if she felt ready to try mimicking any of the moves they were showcasing.

“I… I honestly don’t know,” she replied, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

It was challenging to watch, to say the least. Most of the men were built like Alexander, their sheer size and strength intimidating. They threw punches with such force that it seemed they could easily send their opponent sprawling across the mat. The swift, effortless agility they displayed made Evelyn question her very presence there.

What on earth am I doing here? I can’t fight like that.

Just as she was about to stand up and slip away, Erik caught her eye and called out to her.

“What do you say, Luna? Want to give it a try?” he asked, his grin encouraging.

“Erik… From what I’ve seen, I really don’t think I can do what you all can do,” she admitted, a wave of doubt washing over her. “Maybe this was just a mistake—”

“I assure you, Evelyn, this is not a mistake,” Thomas interjected firmly. “Let’s start with the basics. How about we show you the proper way to throw a punch?”

With a heavy sigh, she dragged her feet over to one of the training mats, bracing herself for the instruction that would follow. Erik approached her from behind, resting his hands gently on her shoulders. “Imagine your opponent is right in front of you, okay?” She nodded, trying to focus. He adjusted her stance, guiding her body to an optimal angle, pulling back her right shoulder and arm. “When you curl your hand into a fist, remember to keep your thumb outside. Tucking it in could lead to a nasty injury.”

“Noted,” she replied, trying to absorb every word.

“Now, as you bend your elbow, lift your arm so it aligns with your shoulder. When you’re ready to throw the punch, maintain this form as much as possible. Got it?”

“If you lose tension in your muscles, you’re opening yourself up for an easy attack,” Thomas added, his tone serious. “Form is everything. Losing your form is like losing control.”

“Throw the punch,” Erik instructed.

Evelyn had clearly overestimated her strength, for the moment she threw her arm forward, she nearly lost her balance, teetering on the edge of embarrassment. Oh God. Her cheeks flushed with heat. Was it truly possible that she couldn’t even throw a decent punch?

To her relief, Erik and Thomas were kind enough to stifle any laughter. Instead, they offered her nods of approval, which felt both surprising and encouraging.

“Believe me, even though you wobbled a bit at the end, it’s good to see that fire in you,” Erik said, a gleam of admiration in his eyes.

She turned to him, confusion etched on her face. “Fire?”

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify