Natalia’s POV
I was mid-kick when I spotted Karl approaching the training grounds the next morning. My foot connected with the practice dummy’s midsection with a satisfying thud, and I lowered my leg slowly, watching Karl nervously pick his way through the maze of sparring warriors.
“Morning,” he said, stopping a few feet away. “Do you… Do you think you could spare some time for another lesson?”
I turned and looked at him, taking note of the fact that he’d actually come today in training attire. And without a book under his arm, which was both surprising and a little disconcerting.
“Sure,” I said, gesturing for him to come over. “What do you want to work on?”
“Everything.” He managed a small smile. “I’m terrible at all of it.”
“You’re not terrible. You just need practice.” I handed h
