Day 77 - 10 PM - Practice at the Dour

Tonight's class was "interesting" to say the least.  Instead of arriving at the Dour at my usual time – 6:30 –  for my lesson, I decided it would be best to go with my fellow students at the designated class time of 7 PM.  I dressed in my usual practice clothes – an old dress and pants I used to wear when sheering the sheep, and followed a group of students up the street and into the Dour.

The moment Captain Aldis saw me, he began to bellow, "Ms. Willowbranch!  Where are you been?"

I glanced around at the group around me, "I…I thought class started at 7, sir."

"Not for you, it doesn't.  I expected out here at 6:30.  Now grab a sword and start sparring with Hinkly."

I could feel every set of eyes on me as I pushed my way through the group, crossed the courtyard, and picked up a practice sword from the table.

"Wait!" I could hear Aia protest from the depths of the crowd, "Why does she get special treatment?"

"Ms. Willowbranch has been taking private lessons for the last two months so she is at a far more advanced level than the rest of you.  Now, everyone line up and when I point to you, tell me your name and if you have any fighting experience."

As I strode across the courtyard to where Hinkly was standing, I couldn't help but glanced back at the crowd.  I spotted Aia right away – she was the one glaring daggers at me.  I just smiled and waved at her.  Hehehehe…that felt so good!