The next morning, Beverly joined the household in what Lipei had called Jydrenth’s “Meditative Dances.” They looked a bit like dances, as they paired off and moved back in slow movements. Beverly had tried Tai Chi once or twice in her past life, but had never really found the rhythm. It was like standing yoga. Bev had preferred a more straightforward aerobics class.

This time, however, the motions felt different. In part, it was the new body, able to stretch further then she ever could. Her motions were faster and more fluid, and the whole routine was more fun than her previous attempts.

Jydrenth was likely behind that. Instead of trying to explain the movements using words, the gemstone dragonstone pushed the form into her head. It wasn’t an instant way to learn, but being able to know how her feet should be placed, how her knees should be bent, how it felt to carry through with a movement, it was simple to pick up the katas, as he called them.

It was a good invigorating workout, and, while she ended up covered in sweat, she felt more awake and alive at the end of it.

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They didn’t have any running water. Clean up was either warming a kettle on the cast iron stove and using the scant hot water to scrub at the sweat, or to take a dip in the pond. Beverly was still wary about the pond. Something was in there, but since no one else seemed to be bothered, she tried not to think of it. Toweling off would be good enough for today

--

Over breakfast, another meal of rice and vegetables, Jydrenth had some news.

“Lipei has offered to tutor you in courtly manners. It won’t be every copper and claw, but knowing courtesies can keep you alive. And perhaps seeing some of Maulkir might help you find something to do with your new life.”

Beverly swallowed the mouth full of eggplant as she considered. She really had nothing else to do. She’d help around here, but from what she’d seen yesterday, Silli was not only capable of handling the chores, but she’d been slowed down by Beverly’s attempts at helping.

So, with no reasons to not, she gave a nod.

Jydrenth smiled. “Good. You’ll head out with Maun when he leaves for the day.”

And with the logistics handled, Beverly began a week of lessons in the manners of dragons.