"I did nothing special," I said. "I was perhaps more forward than Valan expected. Did you know she does not like her companion approaching a conference?" "No. That was why you waited?" "Yes." "Don't do it again. We are guests in these villages, but you are my companion, and you serve me, not the village chiefs." "Yes, Malora. I didn't know." "Of course you didn't. Did you and Honna talk?" "She asked about how I came to become your companion, and she asked about my hair. Both led to conversations I did not think I should pursue." I explained further. "You disagree with your punishment for being tardy?" "No. She did. She thought I got off too easily and expressed doubt my punishment would deter further tardiness. I disagree with her receiving a beating, but she didn't offer details. Perhaps there was history." "Is she right?" "The punishment was not meant as a deterrent. If it were, then I would agree with her. If you wanted to offer me a deterrent, you could make me attend training.
