207 Alder's Farm

"Open up!" Arran knocked on Snowcloud's door, louder than the previous time.

"I'm coming," her muffled voice sounded from behind the door. It opened a moment later, revealing Snowcloud's flustered face. From the sweat on her forehead, Arran could tell she had been in the middle of a training session. "What is it?" she asked.

"We're going into town," Arran announced.

"I can't," Snowcloud replied without hesitation. "I have to practice my Body Refinement."

Arran gave her a flat stare. "After six months of ceaseless training, an afternoon off won't make a difference."

"Brightblade told us not to draw attention," she retorted.

"She also told us to enjoy the town," Arran said. "If she intended that to mean we should stay in our rooms, she would have picked a nicer inn."

"I won't risk it," Snowcloud said. "You can go if you want, but I'm staying here."