Rowan and the guard walked out of the training ground together. Sweat had soaked his collar, and he couldn't quite settle his breathing, but a small smile remained at the corner of his mouth.
The guard slowed down when Rowan fell behind. The boy was trying to straighten his fingers. Each clash with Leon had jarred them, and they trembled when he opened his hand.
"How did you learn those movements?"
"By watching them."
"I saw you watching them. I mean before today."
Rowan scratched beside his ear.
"I learned them today. From the students and the instructor."
The guard stopped walking.
"Just by watching them?"
"Yes."
Rowan waited, wondering whether he had said something wrong.
"Unbelievable." The man rubbed his jaw. "I didn't expect you to have a talent like that. The Saintess will be pleased."
Rowan smiled again. He tried making a fist and winced.
"Could we go back now?"
"Had enough of the city?"
"For today."
