Old flame

Breakfast has become a pleasant routine, with Evie opening up more and more. She listens to Kael tell more stories about his exploits, focusing more on stories involving Lord Greyheart now that her heritage is known. Kael worried, at first, that things would be strange between them, both from what they learned yesterday, and what they did last night. In truth, it only seems to have brought them closer.

Evie still calls him master, but less often. It seems more a habit than anything. There’s genuine affection in her eyes when she looks at him, and it’s a nice feeling, knowing he feels the same way. When they finish, and Evie is clearing the table, she makes a point to kiss his cheek as she picks up his plate. Humming a tune, she heads off to the kitchen to clean up.

As pleasant as it is, and as much as Kael would love to spend another day simply relaxing with Evie, he has to get going. Being lord’s champion comes with responsibility, and getting back into action as quickly as possible is part of that. This, another training session to see how well his wounds have healed. With any luck, he won’t run into Orin today. Kael doesn’t want his mood ruined by boorish comments about Evie.

Kael says goodbye to Evie, getting a couple more kisses in the process. “I’ll see you tonight, master…”

There’s a look of promise in her reddish eyes, and a sly smile on her lips as she says that, catching Kael off guard. For once, he’s the flustered one as he beats a hasty retreat. Evie giggles as he goes, clearly enjoying the reversal.

Distracted by his imagination, Kael observes little on the way to the training grounds. Forcing himself to focus, he heads out into the open yard, and immediately sees that he’s not the only champion there once again. Thankfully, however, this time it’s not Orin. Instead, he sees someone who is at the same time more welcome, and less so.

It’s his ex girlfriend, Ria.

As he approaches, she has her back to him, shadow boxing as a warmup. Though she is his ex, it was an amicable break up. If they hadn’t both been champions, they would have likely stayed together, if he’s honest. They both agreed that their relationship could be a distraction, and decided to break up. They’re still very good friends, and Kael would be lying if he said he wasn’t still attracted to her.

As if sensing his approach, Ria turns to face him.

Wearing little as she trains, Ria’s muscular form is on full display as she wipes away a bit of sweat. The only woman among the champions, and around the same age as Kael, she’s always felt the need to prove herself. The fact is, she’s easily a match for anyone in combat, save perhaps Bernal. None of this diminishes her attractiveness, however. Shorter but muscular, with vibrant red and white hair, Ria cuts an impressive figure. And despite her physique, Ria has some impressive curves, with large breasts and a well formed butt, all highlighted by her tight training gear.

Interestingly, she’s had no one else since they broke up. Kael knows Orin tried his luck, but apparently she shut him down, fast. Outside of that, she’s still single, as far as Kael knows.

She lets him stare for a moment before laughing. “Got yourself an eyeful, big guy? You’re lucky I like you!”

With a smile, she punches his uninjured arm. “Heard you’ve been busy lately. Wanna spar and chat about it?”

This is how it’s been between them. Playful, almost flirty, and always pleasant. Ria is rambunctious and loud, but she has a good heart underneath her brash exterior. Kael laughs, shrugging, as he walks to the weapon rack.

“Sure, why not. Maybe my injuries will slow me enough to give you a chance.”

Ria laughs again. “You talk a big game, gimpy. Too busy relaxing with your new friend is what I heard!”

Kael grins, grabbing up a long dueling axe. “If you want details, you’ll need to beat it out of me.”

Ria winks at him, selecting a sword for herself. “Don’t threaten me with a good time!”