Octavion leaned the quiver of arrows against a tree, took a seat on a fallen log, and watched while Altaria taught Kira how to defend herself. Seeing them as contenders gave him pause. He’d given his vow to protect his sister at all costs, and he knew he would never falter, but seeing Kira giving and taking blows at the hands of her imaginary enemy, made his stomach churn. The choice to let her be a part of their lives had not only put her in danger, but had been selfish on his part—he wanted to be close to her.
Just that morning he’d invited her into his bed. An innocent invitation meant to bring her warmth and comfort, yet it was almost unbearable for him. How many times he’d dreamed of her coming to him in the night—wanting him the way he wanted her. If only he knew her feelings, it would be easier. No longer would he have to love her from a distance and wonder what their future would bring. Their lives would be one—and so would their hearts.
“Kira, block with your arms. Defend yourself.” Altaria yelled, throwing a punch in Kira’s direction. “Do not watch for it, feel it coming, sense it.”
Octavion had to smile. Kira was giving it her best, even though she was no match for his sister. He was also amused to see Altaria holding back—a gesture uncommon to her. She’d never given anyone the upper hand, not even with her words. It was good to see her doing so now. Perhaps she was learning to like Kira after all.
“Stop worrying about hurting me. Kick with all your strength.” Altaria jumped in the air just as Kira swept her leg under Altaria’s feet. “Faster, you must be faster.”
Kira tried again, this time losing her balance and landing with her leg curled up under her at an awkward angle. She cried out in frustration and hit the ground with her fist.
Octavion jumped to his feet.
Don’t you dare! She needs to learn this. She is fine. Altaria motioned for him to back off.
With his fists clenched at his sides, he returned to sit on the log.
Kira untangled her legs and stood. “Again!” she challenged.
Octavion leaned back and folded his arms. He’d seen firsthand how stubborn Kira could be, but this was different. She was tougher than he realized. Perhaps a little fire burned behind those emerald eyes after all.
For the most part, he kept quiet. Every once in a while he’d let out a hoot or slap his thigh when Kira got in a good punch or avoided another, always earning a glare or harsh thought from his sister. When they’d finished, Kira panted like she’d just run a marathon, but Altaria seemed barely winded. Octavion handed them both a jug of water, and retrieved the quiver of arrows he’d found at the bottom of a trunk in his lair.
“You still up for an archery lesson?” Octavion asked.
“Ha!” Kira wiped the moisture from her mouth with her sleeve. “I didn’t say I needed a lesson, just wanted to know if I was shooting sticks.” She stepped to her shelter, hung the water jug on a supporting branch and grabbed her bow. “Lead the way, my prince.”
Altaria almost choked on her water trying not to laugh. “I think I will sit this one out.”