Out of the forces deployed for the Mummy Bats campaign, only Squads One and Five had returned to the fortress, and they had all gathered at the archery lanes. When Hermi arrived, the air was thick with the rhythmic thrum-thud of their arrows hitting straw.
Again, Curzio was the first to spot her. He had just loosed a shot when his gaze shifted her way. Instantly, the intense focus on his face melted into a vivid blush.
"Your Majesty!" Curzio shouted. He dipped his head low in a total fluster, nearly dropped his bow in the process.
Seeing Curzio's earnest reaction, Hermi withheld the urge to laugh and squeeze his burning cheeks. With so many veteran archers around, she replied with the measured tone required of her station.
"Curzio. I see you have already returned to your practice. Such diligence is commendable."
