Torun smirked.“I think Salat still has drawings of Katta in action.That would make a fun poster for him.”
“Don’t you dare suggest it.”
Eskin looked between them.“You have history with Torun?”
She grinned.“Sort of an older sister, younger brother situation.He and I have always enjoyed taunting one another.I was in the program for fifteen years before he showed up, and another ten after that before I was teaching in the program.”
Torun asked, “How old are you, exactly?”
“I don’t know.Birthdays weren’t really a thing in the program.I was eight when I left the Sethir-Nin.I do know Aluhara was just becoming an adult.They were planning a huge party for her, and I was removed the day before.”
Torun blinked.“That makes you...”
She held up her hand.“Fairly old.Yes.I am aware.”
Eskin chuckled.“You were the most even-tempered and controlled of all the instructors.Also, surprisingly good at combat for a healer.”
Alody exhaled on her nails and buffed them against her shirt.“I have skills.”
Torun grinned.“That you do.”
Alody snorted.“So, when do you think Diena will be facing trade negotiations with the prefect?”
“Two days at the outside.The Lorn Empire was famous for its exotic minerals.”
Alody smirked.“I can’t wait to hear what happens when you tell Zera she isn’t the real empress.”
Torun had been sipping at a glass of water, and he spluttered.He looked at her in astonishment.“How do you know about that?”
“I travelled the world and sent her all kinds of scenario ideas.In the empire, there are statues in every corner of a woman covered with glyphs.Diena knows more about it than I do.”
Eskin smiled.“She’s an impressive woman.”
“Yeah.I am so proud.”Alody smiled.
Torun said, “Well, Katta, this is not the last time you will be seeing me.Let Jenaki know that he makes good waffles.”
Alody nodded.“I will.If you want to come over again, let us know or knock on the gate.I am loving the bug zapper.”
Torun sighed.“Sorooth should paddle Keska’s butt.”
“I don’t think that’s her thing.”Alody smiled.“She does excellent work.Half the domestic gadgets Zera sells were based on Keska’s designs, and some of the weapons.She made the bug zapper for fun and for protection.”
He grumbled and walked over, kissing her on the head.“Glad to see you again...Alody.”
She snorted and got up to escort him to the door.“Remember.Manners matter.I tried to knock that into you then, and it looks like getting cooperation from little boys is my destiny.”
He grinned.“See you soon.The prefect is going to find this interesting.”
“Go and take care of a natural disaster, you purple goof.”
Torun nodded and left, saying, “I think you should move in.More family is good for you.It’s softening your edges.”
“My edges are none of your business.”She shoved him out the door and closed it behind him.She exhaled in relief and then saw Eskin.“Now, what the hell am I going to do with you?”
He grinned.“I have many ideas, but you would need to get a babysitter for Ithal, or we could go on a family date.”
She laughed softly and felt her face heat.“So explain your interest, recruit.”
