The training ground gradually fell silent as Lilith and Atheline took their positions opposite one another. Neither drew attention to themselves.
There were no spectators gathering in excitement, nor were there loud declarations announcing the beginning of a duel. Only a handful of palace guards remained stationed near the edges of the grounds, and even they quietly moved farther back out of habit.
Experience had taught them that what began as a "light spar" between Their Majesties often became something that no ordinary knight wished to stand too close to.
A gentle winter breeze drifted across the open field, carrying loose flakes of snow between them.
Atheline rested his hand upon the hilt of his sword while keeping his bow slung across his back. Although archery was undoubtedly his greatest strength, he had come to understand one important lesson from every battle he had fought.
