““She needs to add Odin’s rune before she leaves,” Torin cut in firmly. “How many runes did you get on your first day?” I asked, dreading etching more runes. “Ten? Twelve?” He glanced at Lavania. “Fourteen, but you were in the middle of a battle and needed to be turned fast.” Torin glanced at me and smirked. “Think you can beat that?” “Easily,” I retorted. “I don’t know.” He rubbed his chin. “I think five is a good starting number for you.” “Fourteen. If you haven’t noticed, I’m in the middle of a battle with three mean and powerful Norns.” Torin snorted. “I faced legions of scimitar-wielding, turban-wearing Saracens every day and—” “Children!” Lavania ordered. “Enough! You,” she pointed at Torin, “out! No. Not another word. And no more interrupting our lessons.” Torin looked like he was about to argue, but she narrowed her eyes and he clammed up. She turned to me. “Raine, you don’t have to add another rune if you don’t want to.””
