A nice attempt, he said, but youre still ignoring the obvious. Skill will get you some of the way, but power matters, armor matters, surprise matters. There are a thousand things that go into a real fight, and it doesnt matter if it is fair that you have them or not. All that matters is if youre the one left at the end of it.

And how am I supposed to be the one with the most size and power? Erin asked. It seemed like the commanders way of making her feel that she wasnt wanted. Maybe he was trying to convince her that she wasnt meant to be here, that she was supposed to go home and be the princess her parents wanted.

Youre not supposed to, Commander Harr said. Youre supposed to find your own edge. Each of our knights has something they do that is unique. Be faster than the other person, be sneakier, outthink your foes. Oh, and never assume that a battle is done until your foe is down.

Erin saw the blur of movement from the corner of her eye and brought the haft of her spear up in time to parry Pershs blow. She stepped to the side and struck back, kicking his feet from under him and then bringing her short spear down to rest an inch from his throat.

Better, Commander Harr said. But the only way you will truly learn is to be in the world. Two of my men are about to ride a patrol. Ride with them, listen, and learn.

Truly? Erin asked. She could think of nothing she wanted more. Her father would never have let her ride out into danger, yet the commander was actively sending her. Joy flared in her at the thought.

Til and Fenir will be by the gate by now, Commander Harr said. Youll need to hurry to catch them. Your horse is saddled. Tell them I sent you.

I will, Erin said, turning to run down there. At the last minute, she remembered to turn and salute him. Thank you!

She ran to the spot where her horse was waiting, held by a groom. Erin all but leapt into the saddle, riding to the spot where two knights in half plate were waiting atop their chargers. In her chain shirt and leathers, Erin felt surprisingly vulnerable by comparison.

The commander says that Im to patrol with you, she said, enjoying how easy it felt to say those words. She felt as though she belonged here in a way that she didnt anywhere else.

As you say, one of the knights said. Im Til. This is Fenir. He doesnt say much.

The other knight nodded in her direction.

Were to set off along the East Road, Til said. There are reports of folk going missing out near a cluster of old crofters huts there.

Then lets go, Erin said. Im ready.