The grip on his collar loosened, and Stuart Weston stumbled back two steps from the punch.
Only then did he steady himself.
His face was in pain, grimacing and showing his teeth.
"Flossie Wright, Stuart Weston, what are you doing?"
Without warning, a stern voice came through.
Joshua Bailey walked out of the blizzard, his scrutinizing gaze sweeping over the two, his expression grave and icy.
"Reporting to Lieutenant Bailey, we were just sparring!"
Stuart straightened up and faced Joshua Bailey, replying with a resolute and powerful voice.
The face that was previously contorted in pain instantly regained composure, as if there was no sign of discomfort at all.
Joshua Bailey eyed him suspiciously for a few moments.
Stuart kept his composure.
After a pause, Joshua Bailey changed the topic, "It's so late, why aren't you training yet?"
