The girl hastily pulled back the sword and hid it behind her back.

"I saw that."

"Sorry, Aerin," said Erith, hanging her head and twiddling her foot. "I'll be good."

"Good," said Aerin. "Now that you've met Alesan, you should know he's come to stay with us. He's going to be your brother from now on."

Erith made a twisty face, and he stuck his tongue out at her.

Aerin tsked. "You two, go outside and play while there's still light. Don't stray too far. If you see the Loreius farm, that's too far. And come right back in if you get too cold. And don't be late for dinner. Go on, now."

Erith nodded earnestly. Then she grabbed Alesan's hand and tugged at it. "Let's go! You haven't even met Torom, yet. He's the best dog in the Pale."