The force of Gytha’s words surprised Reid. She’d known Gytha and Dexter had a relationship that ended when Reid arrived in Axian. But, for some reason, she hadn’t expected Gytha to still have feelings for Dexter, much less admit them to Reid. The fact the couple could no longer be together made guilt consume Reid.

“I’m sorry.” The apology was inadequate, but she couldn’t change anything. If she were in Gytha’s position, she’d feel the same way. “Since I was raised as a man, I never had to worry about such things. I didn’t think anything about it, nor did I realize it might seem improper. I promise it won’t happen again.”

Gytha narrowed her eyes as she studied Reid. After a long, uncomfortable minute, she nodded curtly. “This way.” She opened the door, ushering Reid outside into one of the smaller training courtyards.

Short grass covered the ground and buildings surrounded the area on all four sides. There were around twenty-five people present, all about Reid’s age. She scanned their faces—only a fourth were women.

Gytha whistled. “Line up.”

Everyone immediately got into rows of five across and five deep. Reid moved to join them.

“You stay beside me,” Gytha said, taking a spot in front of the trainees. “You will be my partner.”

Reid did as instructed, clasping her hands behind her back.

“Today, we’re going to practice what to do if someone tries to attack you from behind,” Gytha announced. “Lady Reid, stand behind me and wrap an arm around my shoulders.”

Reid did, already knowing what Gytha intended to do.

“If you find yourself in this position, lean forward,” Gytha told the group. “Then use your attacker’s momentum to flip them over your body. Like this.” She demonstrated the move as she spoke.

Since Reid had been ready for it, she was able to land on her back without getting hurt.

“Now, it’s your turn,” Gytha said to the trainees. “Partner up with someone next to you, then take turns being the attacker and getting attacked.”

Reid jumped to her feet.

“You know how to fight,” Gytha stated.

“Yes.”

Gytha shook her head, clearly nonplussed. “But you’re a woman from northern Marsden.”

“Who was raised as a man,” Reid reminded her.

“I hadn’t realized that included learning to fight.”

“My father made sure I received extensive training.” Although, he’d been sure to shield Reid from any sort of battlefield experience.

“Why are you with the novice group?”

“I assume Prince Dexter finds my skills lacking.”

“What are your strengths?”

“I like to fight with twin swords rather than spar with my hands.”

“Does the commander know this?”

“No.” He hadn’t bothered to ask. And when Reid had fought him, the only weapon she’d had was a dagger—which she’d thrown at him.

“Just when I think I have you figured out, you surprise me.”