Page 36 of A Touch of Stars and Stones
“Sure. I don’t know why, though.”
“Just indulge me, please. Hopefully, he’s still there.”
Ten takes us to a different stable than where we dropped the horses when we arrived. This stable seems more permanent, but I’m pleased that I recognise Nettle there, safely tucked into a bed of his own.
“Hey, boy.” I stand at the half door and smile as Nettle neighs his greeting. I’m careful not to touch him, understanding now dawning on me.
“Would horses be affected by touch, like other people in Kirrasia?” I ask.
“Maybe. I know that Warriors ride horses, and there are stories of their speed and strength. Perhaps.”
“Nettle didn’t like me to start with. He was wary of me when I touched him directly, skin to skin. He settled after I limited that.”
“Nettle was the horse who brought you here.” Ten gathers.
“Yes. I just felt like I should check on him.”
“He’ll be well looked after. Can we get you back to your apartment now?” Ten sounds impatient.
“Sure. I’ve had enough excitement for tonight.”
Although the walk back is quiet, the air is heavy with unasked questions from both of us. And by the time we’re back at the entrance to The Tower, I hope that we’re both brave enough to ask them another day.
He pauses at the steps. “You got it from here?”
I had it long before now, but I’m less irritated that he walked me back after seeing Nettle and having a moment to think.
“Goodnight, Ten. See you at training.”
“Goodnight, Ever.”
“What are you going to do when you move to the training residence if you can’t wake up without me as your alarm?”
“Kyra?” My voice is thick with sleep. “What time is it?” I force my tongue to work the words, but my eyes are still welded shut.
“It’s early. But your schedule starts early, so here I am. Up. You have training.” She slides the curtains apart, letting the gentle glow of the sunrise in through the arched window. It warms the room and suddenly makes it easier for me to come around from my slumber.
Every muscle in me protests at my slow movement. “Fine. Do you have any further information as to what my training involves at this unearthly hour?” I make my way over to the washroom and try to wake myself up with the cold water.
“No. Just that they’re expecting you. I’m sure Micah will show you the ropes. And there’ll be more people to meet.”
And Ten will be there. If he even wants to talk to me after last night.
I go to my dresser, but as I cross the room, I notice the new clothes laid out on the bed. I eye them, and then Kyra. “You want me to wear these?”
“Well, it’s recommended for training. I’m still pulling the rest of your wardrobe together, but I need to wait until I know what Order you’ll belong to before I can finish that.”
These are new, expensive clothes and signify more than just helping me out.
“Who’s given you these? Where did you get them?” I ask, trying to piece it together.
“Oh, this is from the Custodians. Lyle explained that you left in a hurry and didn’t have time to pack. That’s understandable. Nobody minds.” She smiles and picks up the black trousers. They are much more structured and fitted than the loose linen trousers that I wore, just tied at my waist. “Just for the physical training,” she adds.
“I’m not allowed to do that.”
“Running? Drills? You’ll be doing those, believe me.” She sighs and buzzes around the room. “Now come on. Or you won’t have time for breakfast.”
She has me there. My appetite is growing with every meal.
