Annie's POV:
The column halted at midday to rest the horses. Chloe and I sat on the tail of the wagon with our feet over the side, eating bread, watching the warriors stretch their legs. The horses drank from a stream. The carts sat in a long line. The pack's noise was low and easy—the noise of a march going well. Even the dust seemed to settle at noon. The midday sun was warm on my shoulders, and for a moment the whole march felt like nothing more than a long walk with the pack.
Jasper had Jack on the grass a few paces away, showing him how to hold a practice blade. Jack's tongue was out with concentration. Jasper crouched at his level, patient, correcting his grip without once raising his voice.
"Look at him," Chloe said.
I looked at her. She was watching Jasper, her chin on her hand
