Hiraeth

Chapter Two

Sage awoke the next morning to the sound of rain drumming softly against her window, a rhythmic lullaby that invited her to linger in bed just a little longer. She pulled the covers tighter around her shoulders, savoring the warmth, but the thought of Duke Fleck and the promise of their upcoming escapades pulled her back to reality.

"Ugh, this is not how I envisioned our adventure," she muttered, swinging her legs over the side of the bed. The gray clouds outside matched her mood-she was restless, anxious for the next step in her life to unfold. Today was the day she would meet Kade for their usual morning training session. She could feel her heart racing, a mix of excitement and nervousness fluttering in her stomach.

After dressing in her favorite riding outfit-dark trousers, a fitted white blouse, and a sturdy jacket-Sage inspected herself in the mirror. Her long brown hair was pulled back into a practical braid, and her freckled cheeks were flushed from the brisk morning air. She looked the part of a lady ready to ride, but underneath, she felt more like a rebel preparing to break free.

Descending the staircase, she found Kade waiting in the foyer, leaning against the wall with an easy, casual demeanor. The moment their eyes met, he straightened and flashed her a grin that made her heart skip.

"Morning, my lady," he said, feigning a bow. "Ready to be schooled in the art of swordplay?"

"Ready to wipe the floor with you," she shot back, playfully bumping him with her shoulder as she passed. "But first, coffee."

"Coffee, eh? I guess we can't go into battle without our fuel," he said, following her into the kitchen, where the aroma of fresh coffee filled the air.

Sage poured herself a steaming cup, taking a moment to relish the rich, dark liquid. "You know, Kade, I'm starting to think you're just using me for my morning coffee."

"Can you blame me? You do make the best coffee in the entire estate," he teased, pouring himself a cup. "Besides, I'm here to train you, not for your coffee-making skills."

"Right, because you're such an expert at sword fighting," she quipped, rolling her eyes.

"Hey now, I'll have you know I'm quite the knight," he said, pretending to be offended. "A knight who happens to love coffee and appreciates a good sword duel."

Sage chuckled, feeling the tension of the day ahead begin to dissipate. "Alright, let's see if your skills match your bravado, then."

They finished their coffees and headed outside, the rain having turned to a soft drizzle. The world outside felt fresh and alive, the garden glistening with droplets that hung like jewels on the leaves. The training yard, surrounded by tall hedges, awaited them, a familiar battleground where they had spent countless mornings sparring.

Kade led the way, his long black hair tied back, revealing his strong jawline and bright green eyes that sparkled with mischief. As they reached the yard, Sage's heart quickened. There was something invigorating about wielding a sword, a sense of empowerment that filled her veins.

"Alright, Sage. Let's start with the basics. Show me what you've got," Kade said, picking up his sword with a flourish, the blade gleaming in the muted light.

She grinned, taking her own sword from the rack. It felt familiar in her hands, the weight comforting. "Prepare to be impressed."

They sparred, the sound of their blades clashing ringing in the air. Kade was skilled, his movements fluid and precise, but Sage had been practicing, and she matched him blow for blow. The friendly competition always ignited a fire within her, the thrill of the fight awakening her spirit.

"Not bad, my lady," Kade said, dodging her strike with a grin. "But I think you're holding back."

"Hold back? You wish!" she shot back, lunging at him with newfound determination. With a swift move, she disarmed him, sending his sword clattering to the ground. She stood over him, breathing heavily, her heart racing. "Looks like I win this round."