The sun had long hidden for the moon to take its place. The night was young and serene. Maleeka was girded with a belt over her light dress. Light enough to ease her movement, her hair was tied in a pony.
She unsheathed her dagger. It was her preferred weapon; small and sharp, it could get the job done.
Eric stood in the middle of the arena. It was an enclosed training ground within the palace. It was private.
Satisfied with the dagger within her grasp, she faced him. “Where is your weapon?” she asked.
“Don’t need any.” He smiled, it irritated her. It was only fair for both of them to have weapons. Normally it would seem to her advantage. But looking at him, she understood. She was not muscled but wit she had. She can’t win him in strength, that’s practically impossible. But with b
