I snort and throw back my head. “It certainly felt like I was in genuine danger.” Despite the physical activity, the failure makes me restless. What would it take to summon my craft if a dagger aimed at my face isn’t enough? “What you did with the shadows—can most shadowblessed do that?”

“No. The Calling of Shadow isn’t limited to only three variations of ability like shamanic crafts are. There are many different crafts the shadowblessed possess.”

“Like giving life to shadows.” I retrieve my swords from the ground, wiping dirt off the blades before sheathing them again.

“An imitation of life.”

“Well, don’t feel bad, Hlau Theyen. It’s been years since anyone aside from my swordmaster has defeated me in a fight.”

When I first entered the Prince’s Company at eleven years old, I was a scrap of a girl, too skinny to lift a proper sword, which was why I chose the dual swords instead—two lighter, shorter blades that allowed for more fluid motion in combat. And despite that initial near-disaster, as training progressed, it became quickly apparent that I had an affinity for swordplay, which is why Kendara took notice of me.

“Perhaps you need stronger provocation, then,” he says.

“Bold words for someone who ended this duel on his back. Were this a real fight, you would no longer have a head.”

He crosses his arms. Dirt clings to his shoulders and hair. “I have many years left of studying the sword before I can call myself a master. Only a fool overestimates their own ability.”

“I recall you saying something about not being trained for real battle?”

“You’re good. Your swordmaster no doubt claimed you’re a natural.”

She didn’t. In fact, she told me I’m overconfident and a show-off. Sisters, I miss her.

“But once you’ve truly seen death—”

I’m already annoyed that I didn’t invoke my craft, and his condescension unleashes my anger. Before he’s finished the word death, I’ve released my sword from its sheath and nudged the tip beneath his chin. He goes still but otherwise doesn’t react.

“Don’t speak as if you know me.” Satisfaction rushes through me at the thrill of having someone with Theyen’s power at my mercy. It’s not something I’ve ever before thought possible. For a moment, I understand how Ronin might feel with his influence over three powerful kingdoms, and why he would want to hold onto it.

“Watch yourself, shaman. I am a Fireborn Hlau.” Theyen speaks softly but coolly. Now that the sun has begun to rise, his eyes are visible. They’re a vibrant shade of coral blue, rimmed in lavender, a bright contrast to his white hair and gray skin but just as cold.

“What does that matter to me? Do you think imprisoning his soulguide will win you Ronin’s favor?”