Selvara’s POV
My back ached as I bent to gather the damp towels littering the courtyard. They stank of sweat as they were used by the warriors who had just finished their morning drills, but I didn’t dare complain. Everyone else had left, and I was the only one left to clean up.
The pile was heavy in my arms, as I struggled to balance so I wouldn't fall. Breakfast didn't go round that morning, so some of us would have to starve till dinner, and I was lucky to be one of them.
I knelt for another towel when footsteps clicked behind me and my stomach tightened. I didn’t need to turn to know who it was.
“Still working?” Kaela’s voice rang behind me.
I straightened quickly, lowering my head. “Yes, my lady.”
“Good. Your diligence is… admirable.” She stepped closer, the hem of her fine dre
