If I learn the sword, I will have to follow in my mother's footsteps. She thought to herself. The girl thought back on how the children of the village viewed her, which led her to remember what the villagers often said in her presence.

"I'm sure you'll become a hero like your mother."

"Palma is definitely a prodigy."

"She'll grow into a strong women."

"You're our next hero."

"The next hero."

Though these were words of praise to the girl, it soon became a burden to her. Thus, She was consumed by pressure and fear of expectations.

No. She thought. I...I... "I don't  want to be a hero."

"What?" Nepella said.

"Eh...?"

Did I... Did I say that loud? She thought herself.

"You don't want to be a hero? Why's that?" The Chief asked.

Ack! This silly habit of mine! She screamed in her head. The girl cautiously glanced at her mother.

"Remain silent!" She mouthed.

The girl knew that if she refused the training, she would never win the recognition of her mother. But she also wanted her to know her true thoughts on the matter.

The girl took a deep breath and nervously stood before the Chief.

"I don't want to be a hero, because..."

To Be Continued...