Interlude: Ferro

Alone in a corner of the compound that Lanoch had been given, Ferro trained.

The whole place was a yard surrounded by walls, with one main building, and so he'd resorted to hiding in the weapons shed either early in the morning or late at night to train.

He'd tried asking Lanoch indirectly if he would be allowed, but the lionkin who owned him laughed and said he already had enough magic to be useful. Then, if a mockery of romance, Lanoch said "The only thing you need to worry about is keeping your protector happy," before grabbing Ferro's butt and playing harshly with his tail.

Ignoring the soreness in his back, Ferro focused.