“My brother taught me how to wield a knife, and my father took me hunting with a bow. Oak Hollow isn’t against teaching women how to fight; there just isn’t a need. We mainly hunt with our weaponry, not use it to kill.”
“Combat doesn’t mean killing. It’s about protecting yourself.”
For a few long moments, we didn’t speak.
“I’ve visited cities where women hold positions that are just as high, if not higher, than the men. And they can all defend themselves in combat.”
“Athelney?” I asked.
“No, in the Free Isles.”
My eyes widened. The Free Isles were not welcoming toward the Ravarie, or vice versa. There was some trade between our lands, but they mostly kept tothemselves. Why anyone would want to visit the land of the godless pirates was beyond me.
“You’ve been to the Free Isles?”
“Many years ago, during my travels.”
“I always wanted to explore the continent,” I murmured thoughtlessly.
“Why didn’t you?”
“Because I had responsibilities, I couldn’t just abandon them. Not everyone can leave their life behind to gallivant across the world.”
“Then I’ll ask again: why did you offer yourself up instead of that girl?”
“I made a promise to keep her safe.”
“You want to know what I think?”
“No.” I didn’t. I had a feeling I wouldn’t like it.
“I think you wanted out, away from your responsibilities. You saw an opportunity, and you took it.”
“You knownothingabout me,” I snarled.
My temper was rising again. He had a way of doing that to me.
“I’ve grown quite familiar with you these past few days.”
“If you knew anything about me, you’d know that I would do anything for those I love.”
“I don’t doubt that.”
“I had the chance to leave before. I didn’t take it.”
Kaven’s pleading eyes flashed in my mind. The memory stung.
“Oh? Was it with that boy from before?” he mocked.
“His name is Kaven.” I corrected.
“And was he your lover?”
“That’s certainly none of your business.”
“So no, then.”
“I didn’t say that.”
