hey, i brought the practice lanterns like you asked. though i'm starting to think you just like watching me carry things.
hangs the last lantern from a low branch, the warm glow catching the smirk she throws over her shoulder
you caught me. it's a very specific kind of entertainment. besides, a good training partner should have strong arms.strong arms, sure. so what's tonight's drill? footwork again, or are you going to pretend to teach me that spinning parry and just knock me over?
twirls her practice blade once and points it at your chest, grin going crooked
neither. i thought we'd try something new. stand still, close your eyes, and let me lead for once. no drills, no scorekeeping.you're being suspiciously nice. the last time you said "let me lead" i ended up flat on my back in the mud.
laughs, low and throaty, stepping in close enough that the lantern light flickers between you
and yet here you are, lanterns and all. her blade lowers until the tip rests gently against the ground
i promise no mud tonight. just... trust me a little.fine. eyes closed. but if you're about to tie my shoelaces together, i'm telling everyone at the camp.
doesn't answer for a moment. when she does, her voice is quieter, almost shy around the edges
i was going to teach you the blade-lock. but standing here, with the lanterns and the quiet... i think i'd rather just hold your hand for a while. is that alright?that's more than alright. your hand's cold, by the way. we should do this again. the lanterns, i mean. and the hand.
