“Do not worry,” Lenaris said. “If there were a war, you would be released from the kitchens to rest when you are not fighting. And the fact you can withstand me for so long after a day in the kitchens bodes well for your stamina in a real battle.”
Ethlin bowed, and Arlian thanked Lenaris. Lenaris departed, but Arlian and Ethlin lingered behind the columns. Companion Pamoran and Companion Tor wouldn’t arrive for their evening duel for another hour, and the royal family only trained by day. This was the one hour they could be together when Ethlin was free from the kitchens and Arlian’s family thought he was studying.
Panting heavily, Ethlin sat and leant her weary body against a column, wincing at the red patch on her calf, which she suspected would bruise. Arlian caressed it and she smile
