Chapter 29
“Good,” Manat said. “You’re just in time.”
Bradamante stood at the entrance to the high-walled outer courtyard, grateful she’d taken the time to change back into tunic and pants before searching for her teacher. Dust settled around them as twenty or so young men and women paused in their training to stare at her.
“I brought yours,” Manat said, leading her to a pile of weapons. “And you’ll want this shield, too. Ready?”
“We use our real swords?” Bradamante asked. “Won’t someone get hurt?”
Manat smiled. “Not if I’ve taught you well.”
Bradamante glanced up to see Astolpho joining the group. He avoided her gaze.
“You’ll work with Rayda,” Manat said, pointing to a girl Bradamante guessed to be about twelve years old. “Tachus, can you go work with Astolpho?”
Bradamante was sur
