Page 101 of A Sunwoven Ascent

He no longer looked like the boy she had rescued. His face was clean-shaven, his hair trimmed and styled in a way that reminded her so sharply of their father that it made her chest ache. Even the way he carried himself—straight-backed and composed—felt familiar. His clothing was much like Aron Duskwood’s had once been: well-fitted, simple, and unmistakably noble.

They walked arm in arm, Aurelia leaning slightly toward Cillian as she spoke, her voice too distant to hear but her face bright with animation. He listened patiently, offering the occasional nod, and for a moment they looked almost whole.

As they drew nearer, Evelyne’s attention shifted instinctively toward Kaldrek. He was sparring with Holden a short distance away, the two moving through a controlled exchange of strikes and blocks. But the moment Aurelia stepped fully into view, Holden faltered completely. His footing slipped, his focus shattered, and he landed flat on his backside with a dull thud against the ground.

Kaldrek lowered his hands slowly, one brow rising as he looked down at Holden. Evelyne pressed her lips together, fighting back a smile.

What is wrong with him? she teased through the bond, though part of her already knew. Men had always behaved strangely around Aurelia. She was breathtaking, after all.

He is merely off his game, Kaldrek replied, amusement threading through his voice.

“Join me?” Evelyne asked aloud, nodding to Heidara as she stepped away. Alaric followed easily behind them.

“Sister,” Aurelia greeted her as they approached, her gaze sweeping over Evelyne with clear delight. “I must say, I am quite taken with these leather ensembles you insist on wearing for your… combat exercises. Are they handmade? How daring for a lady to dress so… revealingly.” Her lips curved. “I should very much enjoy frightening Mother with one.”

Evelyne laughed. “I’m sure the Ironwolf pack would be more than willing to provide you with one, if you’d join us for training.”

“Training?” Aurelia echoed, blinking. “Oh… I… No. I do not believe I am suited for such things.”

“I think you’d learn quickly,” Heidara added with a grin. “Evelyne did.”

“Good heavens, I should make a complete spectacle of myself,” Aurelia said lightly, though she rose subtly onto her toes, peering over Heidara’s shoulder.

Evelyne followed where she was looking.

Of course.

The shirtless males.

Evelyne could hardly blame her curiosity.

“What brings you both here?” she asked, turning back.

“Well,” Cillian began, “aside from ensuring our dear sister has not completely abandoned us for the wilderness, we come with… a request. From Mother.”

“Why does that one avoid me?” Aurelia cut in. She lifted a gloved finger, pointing. “The blonde one there.”

“Holden?” Heidara said. “Honestly, I have no idea. My brother usually adores women. I am rather surprised he has not already come over to charm you. Perhaps he is trying his hand at manners.” She and Evelyne both laughed.

Across the clearing, Holden had clearly noticed them—and immediately looked anywhere but in their direction.

“Or perhaps he simply dislikes your dress,” Cillian teased.

Aurelia turned sharply. “You told me I looked lovely this morning.”

“You do,” he said quickly. “But he may prefer leather.”

“Oh, do stop,” Aurelia huffed. “This is becoming absurd.”

Come here, please, Evelyne sent. And bring your companion.

Kaldrek paused mid-training and turned, all but dragging his second along with him.

“What was it Mother wanted?” Evelyne asked.

Aurelia let out a small breath. “It would seem most appropriate that the two gentlemen hear this as well.”

“Gentlemen?” Alaric echoed, amused.