Aurel strode in the dining room with a frown at her brows, having finished her morning training. She plopped down the chair beside Mikael, sweeping a glance around the room, looking for someone.
"Where's brother?" she asked, an obvious irritation laced her voice.
Mikael answered, "He spent the night in his office. I don't think he will be joining breakfast today."
Aurel nodded before slumping on the table while the maids were preparing her meal. "…Ugh, sister, training has been exhausting these days," she groaned to Mikael, complaining about how tiring it had been lately.
Mikael offered a comforting gesture, patting her arm. "You're doing great, Aurel. Just hang in there."
She leaned back in her seat, rubbing her sore muscles. "I swear, it's trying to kill me," she muttered.
"Should this unladylike practice tire you, then when do you intend to quit, Miss Aurel?" Esteemed Lady Clarissa's voice cut through the room; her tone sweet but with a sharp undertone.
