Chapter 49
The Yule Feast arrived, along with a sudden cold snap that left the castle chilly and the inhabitants irritable. I sat at the head table, picking at my food and trying to contain my mounting nervousness. Finally, as the second-to-last course was served, Neeve nodded at me.
It was time to prepare for our demonstration of arms.
I re-folded my napkin, placed it on the table, and quietly left. Neeve followed, and we headed to a nearby storeroom so we could change. Fighting a mock battle in our best gowns would be foolish. Without much talk, we quickly traded silk and satin for trousers, boots, and sturdy leather jerkins.
We met Kian in the corridor just outside the great hall. He gave us a jaunty smile, no sign of worry on his open face.
“Ready?” He unsheathed his sword. “This
