The Morning after A Long, Cold Night

Disclaimer: All characters and locations herein are the property of Tamora Pierce. Plot and actual written words owned by me.

It was not long past dawn when Keladry heard a faint knock on her door. She'd been in her dressing chamber washing up after her morning exercises, her brow and hands were still damp when she opened the door to her bower. She was puzzled, not expecting company so early.

She was met with a grinning figure in dusty travel gear. "Care for a morning ride?"

"When did you come back?" asked Kel.

Aly shrugged. "My ship docked in Port Caynn at about midnight. I made straight for Corus, and only just arrived."

"You rode all night, and you want to go out, now?" asked Kel, incredulous.

"Well, look at me," said Aly reasonably. "I'm all geared up for riding, aren't I? May as well make use of it."

It was true; she was clad in wool breeches and a short riding cloak, her feet shod with serviceable riding boots, her reddish hair tied back with a leather string. Kel herself still wore her cotton training clothes and soft-soled shoes.

"Don't tell me your horse is saddled and waiting outside," said Kel.

Aly shook her head. "I left the poor beast to his rest. It wasn't my horse, anyway. Dena has been in the palace stables the whole time I was away, and is probably fresh and eager to ride by now. Not saddled, I'm afraid, but I think I can manage that."

Kel examined the shadows under Aly's bright eyes critically. "Are you sure this is wise --"

"Keladry, dear," interjected Aly with a smile, "shut up."

She pondered this. Aly was unlikely to go to sleep now, unreasonably energized as she seemed. If Kel suggested it again, it would only make the stubborn lass more adamant to go riding than ever. The girl could certainly handle working through the night better than Kel ever could. She was a morning person, essentially.

She stood aside to let her in, Aly promptly kissed her on the nose and made for the dressing chamber. "Be ready by the time I'm out!" she ordered playfully.

She was, of course.