Drunk while fighting Vancha

Larten faced Vancha March and bowed again. “Sire,” he said quietly.
“Larten,” Vancha grunted, casting a critical eye over the General.

“How are your ribs?”

“All healed.”

“I thought you’d still be hobbling after the beating I gave you.”

“I have sustained worse injuries stumbling down stairs,” Larten said.
Vancha scowled. “Be careful or I’ll knock you about again.”

“I had been drinking when we fought,” Larten said. “Sober, I do not
think you would fare so well against me.”

***

The Saga of Larten Crepsley: Brothers to the Death, Chapter 14