Audrey realized she was trapped as soon as the words left the older boy's mouth.  She couldn't... wouldn't... deny her heritage.  But if she acknowledged it the larger boys would know not only that she was a squire, but one of the lead family as well.  It was unlikely that knowledge will make them more respectful, considering how they treat Fabian even with his lineage.  They would probably just take it as even more of an excuse to pummel the pair.<br/><br/>With either answer leading to larger issues, she decided to stay quiet.  Still, she couldn't quite hide the anger she felt at how dismissively they said her family name.  Thinking of her brother and father, her fists tightened and she had to bite her lip to keep from saying something she'd later regret.  As long as she kept silent, they couldn't prove anything about her.  Then all she needed to do is get back to the squire's side and they won't be able to follow her. Not without risking a beating of their own.<br/><br/>Keeping her eyes on Edward, Audrey stepped slightly in front of Fabian.  She was certain she'd had more training in combat than he, despites the limits of her own experience in it.  Plus, she would rather protect her friend than let them both get beaten to a pulp.