Lara blinked. "Your Highness?"
A grin spread across Kael's face.
"How about you and I have a spar one of these days?" he said.
Lara smiled shyly. "I'd like that."
Kael nodded, pleased by her answer.
"Good. Then it's settled."
He turned and walked back toward the castle, leaving her standing by the pond. She watched him go with a small smile.
For the first time since arriving at the palace, she felt a little less like an outsider.
Then a familiar voice from behind her made her smile disappear.
"Enjoying yourself?"
Lara turned. Her heart sank. Selene stood a few paces away, a practice sword resting casually on one shoulder. A slow smile spread across her lips.
"I couldn't help overhearing your conversation with Kael."
She twirled the sword effortlessly before lowering its tip toward the sparring ring.
"If you're willing to spar with a prince, surely you won't refuse a friendly match with me."
Lara's eyes widened.
"My Lady, I don't think that's a good idea."
"Why not?"
