Nakhtmin had a larger-than-life presence which was as equally intimidating as the sheer size of him, or the swords he carried. As he bowed Aiesha felt the distinct impulse to withdraw, to flee—but if she was to become a proper mazoi she would have to adapt. There were a myriad of creatures in service of Satriya, and trusting them was a necessity.

In answer of his question she explained, It was a footwork drill. Khusobek—I do not know if you have met him, he was our jodai— the divisive language was hard to avoid and she did not realize she had used it, splitting Akashingo from Satriya in her mind, It was something he had me doing, and we adapted it a little bit for difficulty.

She was still out of breath, but maybe that was because of Nakhtmin.

Something about... Training myself to breathe? Not just reactions, but... She was a little dizzy, and didn't want to admit it. Her train of thought tapered.