Gallus acknowledged Ri'vashi's advice with periodic nods but they were more humouring than attentive. "Yes, it was a risk," Gallus conceded in an exaggeratedly droll voice, jokingly smiling as he did. Though he didn't appear to hold it against her to lecture him, he had a little frustration in his movements as he snatched back his helmet. "Look, just because you continue to remain one step ahead of me, doesn't mean I should stop trying new things, no?"

Gallus slid on his helmet and readjusted his grip on the hammer he held. "Another round?"

Nearby, Gallus couldn't hear the whispers of the spectators through his helmet. Although even their discussions of his sanity regarding continuing to spar with the clan leader would not have stopped him.

[hr]
After taking another breath to collect himself, Tzirret took a seat next to Peiter cross-legged and leaning forward. He was looking at the water with tension in his demeanour for the most part. One of his flattened ears twisted upwards reflexively when Peiter mentioned the potions.

Tzirret breathed in to ask about the potions but the previous question caught up with him. He let out some of his breath and addressed that first, turning his head to face Peiter. "This one...doesn't know when the right time is supposed to be," he said in a very unsure voice. "It felt like the right time last night. Is there a particular time? How did Peiter find out?"