The fencing room is actually a large gymnasium. It has traditionally been used for training in the art of fencing, and some of the greatest duels of all time have been fought here. Particularly spectacular was the week-long sleepless duel between Oberon and Dworkin in the castle’s early days, although a two-day contest between Random and Corwin ranks closely. The
first, of course, is apocryphal. The second ended because Corwin had a date.

The most noticeable absence in the fencing room is the lack of pure practice weapons. There are no foils here, only a few epees and a wide collection of sabers. Sabering, in fact, is the most common type of fencing, because none of the royals believes in fencing without the threat of death. The epee is used in initial training, but foils are never used at all. According to Eric, who began the system of training Amber’s military in the fencing arts, fencing with a foil is like smoking without inhaling: it gives the general idea, but nobody is going to care.

Jade will walk in looking all around and after a few moments she notices the lack of practice weapons. She will turn and look at her cousins. "I guess we have to practice with live steel." She didn't show worry or shock at the proposition though would talk to the King later to hopefully add at least some practice weapons.

Ariadne frowned
"What??  Practice with actual blades?  No, that's silly.  No one in Russian right mind would do that.  This is probably just a display of some if the quality weapons the kingdom has.  There must be wooden practice weapons tucked away somewhere "

"I don't see any practice weapons Ariadne."

Jade once again double checks and turns to Ariadne shrugging.
No wooden weapons in here."

Ariadne shrugged
"Well, if all our older relatives are, like, a billion years old, like you say, then maybe they've been skilled enough for so long that they don't need practice weapons anymore.  Perhaps it's been so long since they used this room that the wooden weapons got old and haven't been replaced yet.   Perhaps we can request some."

Jade nods and will ask a servant where the practice weapons are.

The reply is that there are none...

(EDIT) Some could be sent for in the city, probably... It'd probably take at least an hour, though...
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:37, Thu 17 Dec 2020.

"Alright thank you." She says to the servants.

Finding the others again, "No, no practice weapons. Perhaps our family doesn't believe in such things, I don't know."

*nods* "I am also surprised that there are no axes, spears or shields.  Whoever set this up wasn't very smart.  Dueling is great for one on one or even two on one if you are skilled.  But for a militia or guardsman? not so bright" *smiles* "That is ok, each of you pick a saber." he goes to the hallway and calls for a servant to quickly bring several large towels (8-10) and rope (25ft).
"we can make practice weapons."

Jade will pick out a saber that feels right and she is confident in it's weight.

Giving some practice swings she then will move to help out with what Jon is doing.

"once the servant returns with the towels and rope, we wrap the towels around the blades and tie them in place.  It isn't a perfect solution, but at least for now, to just get a feel.  It should be fine.  Besides I will use a shield so that you can practice and not worry about hitting me."  *smiles* "And we will have to talk to the weapon master and get some variety of weapons and shields in here for us all to practice with."

Jade will wrap up her saber and tie the rope around it.
She tests the blade again to see how well the towel will hold.

"These should work."

Ariadne nodded but shrugged
"Spending some time just getting used to the weapons, even without contact, might be useful as well."

"I am going to have a servant get us some practice weapons. That way we have some in the future. "

Jade went back to the servants to do just that. Returning to her cousins when she was done.

"So who should pair off first ?"

Ariadne frowned at Jade in concern
"Pair off??  Shouldn't we work on our form for a bit before we  start taking whacks at each other?"

Jade blinks and looks at Ariadne.

*smiles* "I see Jade's point of view, you never seldom know when a fight will occur." *chuckles* "But this is practice.  So yes, we should limber up a bit first, then I want check out your forms.  Make any corrections and run through a few drills." *grins* "Jade, since I know from our conversations you are trained with the Rapier, why do you start.  Show me your form and basic regimen that you've been taught."


GM: How do you want to handle practice Rolls?
I know my is perception, would Jade's me the normal Melee?

Also, clarification on penalties are they only for the next roll or for the entire day?

Jade gives a nod with a smile and will for this part of training use the Rapier given to her by Jon. She will stretch before hand and then go into a fighting stance and start on her moves. She has been trained and though her focus in life has not been the blade she is very good at her chosen weapon.

12:03, Today: Jade rolled 5 using 2d6 with rolls of 3,2.  Practicing Form Dex.


Jade somehow ends up hitting herself during some of the more fast parts of her practice.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:51, Fri 18 Dec 2020.

OOC: 14:23, Today: Jon rolled 5 using 2d6-1 ((1,5)). - Observing Jade for nuance / non-obvious issues.
Nope, no problems except for the coordination for the more advanced moves. *sigh* I assume that is now another -2, for a total of -3?

*smiles* "Well, your basics are pretty solid. But you will need to work on your coordination.  I don't know how different Remba is from here, but I know when I would practice in water it slowed me down a lot.  But when I got out, for a bit I was faster and it make it harder to control.  So that could be part of it here." Walks over and gives her a pat on the shoulder. "Let's stick to the basic for now. Just to be safe"

He then turns to Ari, "OK your turn.  Show me what your got."

Jade nods and moves to allow Ariadne to practice.
She feels deeply humiliated almost to the point of running off.
What a nerd I am.

Trying to be careful of her stab wounds, which seemed very stubbornly to not want to fully heal, Ari took out a rapier and moved around with it as she'd been taught.  She attacked and defended against an imaginary opponent, trying to move her feet and body accordingly.

"OOC:  15:28, Today: Ariadne rolled 7 using 2d6 with rolls of 2,5.  Practice
I have a +2 for Dex and a +1 for Str.  I'm not sure which is applicable

OOC: 17:05, Today: Jon rolled 6 using 2d6-3 ((4,5)). Observing Ari for any nuance / not obvious.
For this let's pretend it was Dex.  so that would be a 9.

Jon ALMOST saw something, so I'm up to a -5 now.


*nods* and smiles "Nice.  You definitely mastered the basics. And have the coordination down for some of the advanced moves." he walks over and gives her a on the shoulder as well. "Nicely done.  Now, to embarrass myself, it is my turn."  He picks up a saber and begins a quick pattern from basic to skilled.

OOC: 17:11, Today: Jon rolled 11 using 2d6+2 ((5,4)).  Practice routine - Saber

"He is really good !" Walks over to stand alongside Ariadne and watch.

Ari raised an eyebrow and smirked, but it was was definitely in a self deprecating way.
She gave Jon a smile, of a student to a Master

He finishes the routine and *grins* "My father will be happy that I didn't disgrace myself." he then looks at Jade and Ari. then around the room, he spots some brooms and gives an *evil grin* "OK you two, grab those brooms.  We will use those in place of swords.  Then you can attack me and I will defend with a wrapped saber.  Let's see how coordinate you can be, just keep it simple.  We are only looking at baseline."

OOC: Since this is practice, and technically non-combat, my suggestion is we use STR for the bonus, cuz they are brooms and covered saber.
And for rolling, 2d6 + Str: If I meet or exceed your roll, I block.  If you exceed my roll, you land a hit.  Basic modification for the Melee rolls, again ONLY because this is practice.

Jade looks at the broom a bit longer then she should.
She then looks to Ariadne to coordinate with her. She goes for a leg sweep spinning low.



15:43, Today: Jade rolled 8 using 2d6-1 with rolls of 3,6.  Strength check -1 from last roll.

Ariadne worked to block, trying to focus
OOC: 16:47, Today: Ariadne rolled 7 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 5,1.  Parry Jade

OOC: WOW, I am screwed next round :)
21:34, Today: Jon rolled 10 using 2d6+2 ((2,6)). Block Jade
21:35, Today: Jon rolled 14 using 2d6+2 ((6,6)).  Block Ari.


Jon uses his foot to block the sweep attempt, then jumps back to meet Ari's block, parrying it into a riposte, giving Ari a tap.

*smiles* "keep going."

He is definitely  Eric's son

Jade isn't so much surprised at Jon being able to defend himself. It is a superb skill he is able to do so with that impresses her.

She  will this time make a jab to his midsection.




20:03, Today: Jade rolled 5 using 2d6 with rolls of 2,3.  Thrust.
Trips and falls taking a -2 from these fails on next attack.

Ariadne was getting into the moves, her old practice regimen from other stunt people coming back to her.
But she was also caught off guard by Jon's sheer brilliant moves and actually yelped in surprise as he effortlessly blocked her

OOC: 22:04, Today: Ariadne rolled 9 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 6,1.  Swing with dex

OOC: 22:56, Today: Jon rolled 7 using 2d6+2 ((3,2)). Block Jade
23:07, Today: Jon rolled 7 using 2d6+2 ((4,1)). Block Ari.

Jon side steps Jade and gives her a tap on the shoulder as she passes by.  Seeing her fall, he moves to help her up. "Are you OK?" his concern is genuine.  But it  does leave him open to Ari's attack and he takes the hit. *smiles* "Very good, don't let yourself get distracted but take advantage of your opponents inattention."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:00, Sun 20 Dec 2020.

"I am alright. Only thing that is hurt is my pride."

Jade will take his hand to get the help up.

Jade gives Ariadne a smile and nod.
"I agree, it was good to take advantage of an opponents distraction."



This message was last edited by the player at 05:46, Sat 19 Dec 2020.

Ariadne blushed and rolled her eyes, smiling sheepishly
"I'm gonna be honest, i was so intent on getting a shot in that i didn't even notice Jade fall.  If i had, i probably would've waited.  I suppose i need to be more 'ruthless' in real combat, but I'll need time.for that "

Jade looks to Ariadne and pats her shoulder.

"It's not being ruthless, it is being pragmatic. Your strike may have helped me recover before an enemy would take advantage of my vulnerable position. You did good."

Ariadne laughed warmly and smiled at Jade
"Ih, don't worry.   If Jon had been a Grey Goon, I'd have pounced on him in a heartbeat, if only to protect you.   It just felr weird going all out with you guys'

"I know I said I am not really a warrior, but I had really hoped I would have done better. Still I am willing to get a bit black and blue and maybe even bloody to get better. Thank you both for helping with that."

Ariadne nodded with a smile
"Skill takes time, Jade.  That's  the sad truth in any world, i suppose.   I'll bet it's the same way with magic"

"I would agree with you, though I think my mother's bloodline had a lot to do with it. It was one of the first things my mother asked me, was if I had displayed the gift. I hope I get to introduce you to her." she smiled proud of her mother even though she didn't truly know her well.

"Your pretty good at this Ariadne, I am glad your father had you trained."

Ariadne shrugged
"To.be brutally honest, most of my martial arts training wasn't his idea.  He let me play with swords and stuff as ankid, but i think that warrior training would have made him sad, because it would have reminded him of my mother.   But i sought out teachers on my own, though mostly for unarmed combat "

"Oh, I misunderstood you. I can understand he would have been reminded of her. Though he has you, and you both have each other, which is wonderful. You have us too as a bonus !" Jade gives a warm smile.

Ariadne grinned self consciously
"It's been just he and i, for all practical  intents and purposes, for so lomg that it'll take to really adjust to the idea of an extended family "

"I agree I had no family, and now I do !" Jade smiled brightly.

"A great big, royal family and luckily a bunch of cousins around me age."

Ariadne chuckled
"Are we the same age?  I'd think that it would be hard to tell?"

Jade nods, "I think we are, I'm nineteen."

Ariadne blinked in surprise
"You're only 19??    Hell, I just turned 30.  I feel old"

Jade shakes her head and offers Ariadne a smile. What is the difference of a decade when for our first hundred years or so were all going to be considered kids."

"So please, don't feel old."

Ari grinned wryly
'I guess perspective is everything.   On Earth, one hundred is absolutely ancient.  Most people don't even make it that far'

Jade nudges Ariadne good naturedly.

"You'll hate me in a few decades probably. Right now I am new and shiny." Jade was smiling to show she was teasing.

(I think everyone is doing fine dealing with rolls while I'm not around.

I think you can deal with 7s and up just fine.

But to give some general guidelines:

In general, 7 to 9 is a hit, but you leave yourself open to counterattack
10 to 12 is a hit where you keep your guard up
over 12 is awesome cool

6 or lower, take -1 forward-- or, if you feel like it, lose 1 hp (but NOT if you accidentally hurt YOURSELF, i think.)

Jade, you have gained 1 xp so far, but your -1 forward is from serious embarrassment...)

I agree she is seriously embarrassed

Jade picks up her broom.

"Well, we should keep going and get more of this training in."

She tries to bop Jon with the bristles though she is still stinging from falling.
She misses horribly.



13:31, Today: Jade rolled 3 using 2d6-1 with rolls of 3,1.  Bristle Bump.
I think the die roller is telling me. Youd die lady.

Seeing as how Jon is definitely the better of the three of them, Ari swung at his weapon as well

OOC: 15:55, Today: Ariadne rolled 8 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 5,1.  Dex swing

So is the -1 on just the next combat roll? or for the whole day?  Also are they cumulative?

OOC: 18:22, Today: Jon rolled 7 using 2d6+2 ((1,4)). Block Jade
18:22, Today: Jon rolled 8 using 2d6+2 ((1,5)). Block Ari

Jon dodges Jade's surprise attack and uses his free hand to grab and pull the broom forward to keep Jade off balance. *grins*
At the last second, he gets his saber up to block Ari's attack, he is being hard pressed.
"Good Job, Ari, you've got good instincts and skill."

"Whoah..." Jade was headed floorward again and there it was she was sprawled again.

"Ever have one of those days ? I don't mind, it's just I don't like having an audience on them. How embarrassing. Jon I am glad you are not a Gray Man."

She started to get up.

*smiles* "But that is the point" he offers to help her up "We need to understand everyone's strength and weaknesses so that we can better cover each other." Once Jade is back up.  he takes a step back, saber is pointed down. "Based on what I've see right now, if it was the three of us in a real fight.  I would have us form a triangle.  But instead of the point, Jade, being forward she would be behind us.  Ari and I would be upfront.  This way we injure or create opportunities for Jade to finish off opponents while limiting her risk." *smiles at Jade* "But that also allows Jade to cover our backs and see things we may not."

He pauses  "Back home magic requires a lot of skill and focus.  I would assume it is the same here." *nodding to Jade* "But that also means that magic user needs to have excellent situational and spatial awareness. And as such, Jade can potentially direct the other two points of the Triangle to where we would be effective.  Much like, I would imagine, casting a complex spell."

*grins* "My goal is not make each of us into a great warrior or anything.  My goal, hopefully, is to get us to be able to work together and coordinate in a fight.  Don't get me wrong, I also want to make sure that we can take care of ourselves well enough as well, especially if a planned strategy fails." *grins* "Once, we get comfortable with each other with the physical combat, I also hope to utilize Jade's magic. And that would also change how we fight."

*chuckles* "But one important thing, and Ballad helped me realize that I wasn't being clear, I don't think that I am the One to lead nor to I think I am I the best.  I have different experiences than you all and mine has a slightly more military perspective.  Nor do I expect to be the teacher for all.  My basic skill level might be higher than, but I still have plenty to learn.  This is why I want us to experiment and find out what weapons we like.  Because then we can work with the Weapon Master and other trainers to build on our natural aptitude and skills." *gives a sad smiles* "So please don't think, trying to dictate or anything."

Jade accepts the help up again.

"I know we are feeling each other out. I would still love to be up front fighting like you two. I am can finally understanding why Lance feels unworthy." She shook her head a bit.

"I understand watching each other's  backs. We are like a school of fish and enemies can come from any direction."

She looks perplexed as he continues, "Nothing wrong with being a leader. It helps give direction to a group. Though I can understand, Ballad seems like a free spirit. She probably doesn't want anyone to direct her course."

Jade reaches down taking off her heels and setting them to the side of the room.

Ariadne shrugged
"I've jever really thought of myself as a 'leader type', although...."
She gave a lopsided smile
"I've certainly been called.'bossy' a time or two.  Still, you're right; learning to defend ourselves and each other is more important, or at least more urgent, than worrying about any kind of pecking order amongst ourselves."
She looked at Jade speculatively
"You know... I'll admit that you're absolutely right about Jade, Jon.  If she has magic that can attack, or even distract, our enemies, then behind us is the perfect place.  We draw the attention of the bad guys, and she does her magic whammy.  it's a solid plan, or at least a good tactic "

Jade looked at Ariadne for a while then, "I don't know, you have that serious and tough look. You said you were a rebel right ? Rebel's are usually charismatic at least the ones that lead groups." Then she turned to Jon, "And you Mr. , you have it in your blood as a previous kinds son. Your more of a leader then a ruler, you take your time, your willing to teach and work with people, You look out for your team. If Eric was like you I can see why people liked him."

Jade then holds her hand up touching her chest with her fingertips.




"I don't wish to lead, perhaps in time. I like to research, socialize and learn. I'm still trying to find myself though I know I enjoy those things. Since I love learning, I don't care how many times I might fall or get wounds from training, eventually I will stand at your side and be able to drive the enemy before us."
This message was last edited by the player at 14:29, Sun 20 Dec 2020.

*frowns* "Lance nor you have any reason to feel unworthy.  I was trained for years by a knight, specifically to know how to fight.  Then I became a huntsman and worked my way up to rangers.  Again more training.  I am only 24, but at least 14 years of near constant training and about 3 years of actual service.  That doesn't make me worthy, just experienced." he moves over an puts a hand on Jade's shoulder.  "So don't get discouraged. You are doing fine." *smiles* "Besides, we are making do with Brooms, towels and rope.  These are not balance nor proportioned. So you and Ari are at a disadvantage."

*smiles* "Don't worry, Ari has the right of it.  I'm not worried about pecking order.  I have an idea and vision for the short term, to help us get prepared.  So there is no pressure." *grins* "I may be a King's son Jade, but we are all Royalty, which means we all have the potential to lead.  Besides, each of us needs to be aware enough to be able to take over at any time.  This way no matter what happens, we don't become disorganized." *chuckles* "But I am getting a head of us.  For now, we just need to get a good foundation."

Jade listened and nodded.

"Well, we still have time to practice before we get our keys. I guess it is good we didn't use live steel."  At least for me.

"Im up for it." She recollected her broom.

*smiles* "That's the spirit Jade!"  He looks to Ari, "Up for some more?"

In reply to Jon (msg # 62):


Jade nods and holds the broom tight readying to strike in time with Ariadne.



10:50, Today: Jade rolled 4 using 2d6 with rolls of 3,1.  Broom strike.
This is ridiculous. She isn't falling this time she will take a wound.

Ariadne tries to parry, but is definitely thrown off by their gear
OOC :15:34, Today: Ariadne rolled 5 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 3,1.  Strike

OOC: 17:17, Today: Jon rolled 7 using 2d6+2 ((1,4)).  Block Jade.
17:18, Today: Jon rolled 12 using 2d6+2 ((4,6)). Block Ari.

Jon knocks Jade's attack aside, and catches her hand as he pulls her close to him, wrapping her with arm from behind. Almost like he is dancing with her and gives her a wink.  But this does leave him open.
But not letting himself get to distracted, he meet's Ari's attack with a solid block and a riposte giving her a tap on the other shoulder.  All while planted firming with Jade as a "Hostage"

Jade looked at Jon and smiled a soft note or two a siren song flowed from her.

"You don't want to hurt me do you ? You should be protecting me." Her eyes large and expressive.

Her looks are subtly enhanced at least in relation to Jon.



15:35, Today: Jade rolled 14 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 6,6.  Charm Person.

Ariadne grinned with amused annoyance at Jon after he bested her


She tried again to swat Jon to rmfree his 'hostage'

OOC:.16:39, Today: Ariadne rolled 5 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 1,3.  Strength roll

Oh for crying out loud!!!

Jon looks into Jade's eyes and his whole expression changes.  For him, time seems to slow.  He takes in her plaintive look and really sees just how amazing she looks.  For him it is like no one else exists. He gives her a warm smiles "I would never willing or knowingly hurt you." he eyes fill with determination "I will always protect you, My Princess." with a bit more and subtle emphasis on last two words.  Distract as he is, given the request to protect her, He barely sees Ari coming in. Jon drops the sword and scoops Jade up to cradle her to him and turns his back to Ari and drops to his knees to cover and protect Jade as much as he can.

Of course, this sudden change in tactics is enough to throw Ari off and she collides with Jon, giving him a nice poke with the broom.
Once the danger is over, he looks at Jade. "Are you OK?" his concern is genuine.  He then looks around and makes sure no other attacks are coming.

Jade smiles to Jon. Almost feeling silly, but definitely safer.

She caresses his cheek briefly.
Wow, ok the siren song worked really well. A girl could get used to this.
A blush came over her cheeks.

"You didn't have to get hurt though. I am ok, thank you so much Prince Jon."

Oh what now ?

Jade looked briefly to Ariadne, "I wanted to show you both I am not completely incompetent. That I could contribute in a battle you know."

Blushes a bit himself.  "It is OK Jade, the important thing is that you are OK." gives her a big smile "I never doubted that for a second." he stands up, still cradling Jade.  Once he is at his full height, he does one more check and sees that the area is safe.  He will then carefully help set her on her feet. "Your illusions and enchantments will be quite useful.  Most people underestimate the effectiveness of Illusions and enchantment in combat." *sighs* "Too many think it has to be fire and lightning for combat magic."

He looks over at Ari, "Are you OK?" he asks, he is concerned but there is a subtle difference. "I apologize, for my switch in tactics.".

*smiles* "I think we did well given the circumstances." gives a wink to Jade. "But I think we should call it here for now.  Let's get together and place and order for some good practice gear, including padded armor.  And let's identify the Weaponmaster or Masters.  I don't intend to change how the militia is trained, at lest not yet.  But for us." he looks over at Jade. "For us at least, I think we should start with training gear and work our way up to live steel practices."

OOC:  Yes, I am playing it as Jon doesn't realize he was whammied, which is why there isn't a dramatic difference.
After all, that was a Crit.  Which speaks to both its potency and subtlety.

"I agree, we should get some actual practice gear. I am doomed if I must rely on brooms." She tried to make light of her fighting.

"I do have some research to do, and if any of you wish, I will be observing the pattern. I won't be that talkative since I will be very focused but I wouldn't mind the company and you could see what the Pattern looks like."

"We can all get our key's our uncle King Random, was making copies of the Pattern room key for all of us."

Gives her a pat on the shoulder. "You did fine.  Both of you!  You should be proud.  Improvised weapons are not easy to use." he then down plays his success "I had a real weapon, though covered, it was a real weapon." this isn't false modesty, but he does feel he had the advantage.

*smiles* "Certainly, I would like that." *nods to Jade* "Wise counsel to observe the pattern before I try to walk it." gives a wink to Ari. "I think I'll wait until tomorrow to try, since that was a nice hit there at the end."

Jade invited Ariadne to the Pattern Room too if she wanted to come along.

Ariadne nodded to Jon, looking a bit confused at how much he was fawning over Jade.  Ari knew from experience that the tall woman wasn't nearly as helpless as she might appear
But Ari certainly didn't want her male cousin to fawn over her, so she didn't comment on whatever "damsel in distress" thing Jade had going.  Ariadne was worried about her own improvement for now, and let Jade do her own thing.

OOC :  Ari also didn't notice that Jon was charmed, so is also oblivious

Rory enters the training hall. "I was told that you wished me to meet you here, milord...?"

*nods* "Yes, sadly we've ended practice today.  But what I could still use your help with is to expedite an order for training gear.  Specifically, padded training armor and shields, blunted and slightly heavier weapons.  We are looking for rapiers, broadswords, battle axes, quarterstaves and spears.  at least 3 to 4 of each weapon and at least 10 sets of the armor and shields." *smiles* "Can you please coordinate with the castles Masters of Arms to have that here ASAP. And that we would like to setup regular training sessions with him."

"Yes, milord. Technic'lly, the closest thing we've got to a Master of Arms is Volsk, a captain who Prince Benedict and Prince Julian leave in charge when they're not here... But begging your pardon, the best weaponmaster is a man named Fenton... he does most of the training of new guards...?"

*nods* "Then please coordinate with Fenton, I want us to have the best training possible.  And understand that this includes you and the maid Odile and not just us 5 royals.  We all have room to learn, so please do not take this as anything more than being prepared." he takes a deep breath "I plan to walk the pattern tomorrow.  Once I return, I would like to schedule a sparring session with just you and I overseen by Master Fenton.  I want to gage our skills and have him see how we can improved and coordinate our fighting styles.  Starting with you and I but also with all of us together." *smiles* "If you are OK with it that is.  Being a travelling companion to someone like me."

"Certainly, milord. And it'll take until tomorrow to gather your gear here, anyway, but not longer, I reckon, so that should be fine, if you can wait until early afternoon... Shall I go start, ah, coordinating it now...? Or is there anything else...?"

*smiles* "No, nothing else for now.  Well other than Thank you for your assistance.  I appreciate it."

Rory bows quickly, grins, and hurries off...

He looks at Ariadne "Well that was unexpected.  She is much kinder than I expected of the Queen of Amber."

OOC: I figure that since we are looking for trainers, it makes sense to use this thread, since we'd be coming back her anyway :)

Ariadne smirked,  but nodded
"I'll admit that i don't have a lot of experience with actual queens.    Just a lot of divas who thought of themselves as queens.    So i was pleasantly surprised,  certainly. "

*Chuckles* "Indeed." his posture and bearing are relaxed, back to his usual self. "So, Lady Ariadne, shall we begin our quest to find a master or two who is willing to train 4 or 5 Amber Royals?" he says with a smile and mirth in his eyes.

Ariadne shrugged
"Sure, why not?  Do you think we'll have trouble finding someone?  I can imagine that training royal family members is a bit of a dubious honor"

*shrugs* "I don't know.  But I agree.  One of the rules, we will all have to agree to is that are royal status does not apply while in the training hall.  And that unless something truly inappropriate happens, no matter how tough they are on us, there shouldn't be negative consequences.  I'm not sure how'd we do that here.  I mean it was even tricky back home."

Ariadne chuckled
"I totally agree with you there.  I did some training and sparring in martial arts on Earth , and occasionally worked with relatively famous celebrities.   I made sure to treat them professionally,  but never gave special treatment "

*smiles* "Good, that experience will come in handy.  I've never tried to set something like this up before."  he looks lost in thought for a moment. "Why don't we start with the Captain of the Guard, see who trains the guards."

(Just ask a passing servant...)

As Ari and Jon head out, he flags down a Servant. "Excuse me."

When the servant is filled in on who and what is wanted: "Would you like me send him to you, or to take you to him, or just to give you directions on where in the castle to go, milord?"

*smiles* "Just directions, I would like us to acquaint ourselves with the castle. And also could you also schedule a private meeting between myself and Queen Vialle, at her convenience tomorrow or the day after that?"

Jade will try to search out her cousins...

Ariadne listened to the conversation

Jade tried to sneak up on Ariadne...

Ariadne glanced back at Jade with a wry smile
"Can i help you with something?"
OOC:
23:01, Today: Ariadne rolled 11 using 2d6 with rolls of 6,5.  Perception

Sputter almost trip, "Oh Hi ! I thought you two, would be uhmn getting a carriage." Tries to look innocent.

"How are things going."

Ariadne smiled
"We're just looking for tutors for combat training "

"How about an older member of the family like Julian, or Gerard or maybe even Benedict ?" Jade said with a gentle shrug.

"It was really nice of the Queen to make me this sculpture, it's so cute and reminds me of home." She bops the Narhwal around in the air like it is swimming and smiles.

Ariadne shrugged
"I was thinking they might be busy,  but we can ask them."
She smiled
"That's a beautiful figurine "

Jade nods.

"It was really sweet. I am going to try and help her Majesty out. I don't know how yet but I am going to see if somewhere in shadow is the cure for her sight problem. She is as kind as Queen Moire said." Her eyes are still a bit wet from crying earlier.

"Oh I made something for Jon, an enchanted protection. I can make something for you too if your going to Weirmonen with us."

Ariadne nodded,  thinking
"Though you'd have thought that if there was a cure, the king would have done something by now.
What did you have in mind for protection?"

"Oh the king tried, and the Queen even said he didn't find anything but I am hopeful. We are a new generation with new ideas and maybe you can help. Did Earth have a cure for blindness ?"

Jade then held up the Narwhal, "Something like this for protection, a small keepsake of yours would be best. I could do it on a rock or feather or some other item but it would be best if it was something small that holds value for you but that is not already enchanted. We saw what happened when enchantments clashed with your mothers ax."

"Earth has impressive science and technology,  though our success with blindness is limited.   It all depends on what caused the blindness.

I'll try to find something for you to use. "

"Your phone might work, though I fear mixing it's inherent card like powers with magic. It is about the right size though. I think her Majesty was born blind. I just feel we will all have powers and I want to use mine to help the people I care about."

"Given time, i can probably get another phone if you need to experiment with it "

*smiles* "Hi, Jade, that was quicker than expected.  I hope we didn't upset the Queen." his face shows concern at that.
"As for one of our Uncles, I wanted to wait until we have mastered the basics.  They seem to be busy people, so I figured if we engaged them for advanced training and techniques it might be a better use of their time."

*nod* "When I go home, I will check on any options for the blind that our healers and artificers might have. But I fear they will need to examine the Queen before a definite plan can be made."

"But on the topic of training, we have directions to guard captain's current whereabouts.  So let's see how lost we can get." he says cheerfully.

Jon's whole body looks relaxed, compared to when he was visiting the Queen.  But as usual, there is that default wariness of Jon passively looking for trouble that they might encounter.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:28, Mon 08 Mar 2021.

"No, neither of you upset the Queen. She enjoyed your company. I think she enjoys company."

"Advanced training, that makes sense."

Jade thought about things a bit, "I am not sure how keen she might be on going through testing. She probably went through a lot when she was young."

Nodding, "Alright let's find this guard captain."

*grins* And Jon starts heading to the Guard Captain, leading the trio.

"Thank you, to the both of you. You didn't have to help me but I appreciate it." Jade smiled to show her thanks to the both of them. She picked up her pace.

She put her minisculpture safely in her purse.

Ariadne shrugged
"I don't know how we really helped,  but you're welcome.   We need to stick together , after all "

"I mean helping me out, in trying to help Queen Vialle out. It is really nice of you both."

Ariadne shrugged and smiled
"Honestly,  she seems like a nice person,  so I'm happy to help "

*smiles* "I agree with Ariadne, she is a very nice person.  And if we can help her, I will.  But we will need to respect her wishes as well.  I mean think of it from her point of view.  You said she was blind from birth, correct? So this is her normal.  We need to make sure that we are not acting on our own subconscious fears, but genuinely out of the Queen's well being."

He holds his hands up to forestall comments. "If anyone of us lost our sight, it would be traumatic, even if it was not from a attack.  We would be hard to function normally without our visual sense.  But that is because we've always had our sight.  Our bodies and minds have developed as we grew with our visual sense.  So it would take time for us to adapt and find our balance.  And we would probably never be as good as we were, while our bodies and mind would adapt, we may never reach the same level of the Queen or anyone else who was always or the majority of their life blind.  So from the Queen's stand point, the thought of seeing with her eyes may be just as frightening to her as being blind is to us.  And it would be a big adjustment."

*sighs* "We see it as a handicap, but it is normal for her.  And look at what she has done! She is the Queen of Amber, her artistry is amazing for any person and not just for 'a blind person'.  So, while I am all for search for treatments and solutions, we must temper our enthusiasm and not take it hard or personally if the Queen declines. What we find and or develop may help many, but the Queen may choose not to.  Same with others. But there will be many who would be thrilled."

Jade walks over to Jon and puts her finger on his lips.

"Boop."

She smiles.

"I fought and fretted about talking to her about it because of the very reasons your talking about." Jade pats Jon's head.

"Rest assured she would be happy to have sight, so not to worry."

Then Jade kind of grew quiet.

"Sorry I shouldn't be so personal with you all, we just met. I am just caught up in this wonderful idea of family."

It turns out that the guard captain is to be found in the barracks. All right, fine, where are the barracks?

The answer is mildly unexpected and mildly interesting. It turns out that there's a level between the ground floor level of the castle and the dungeons. Many of the servants have quarters down there, too (although many are on the ground floor). But all the castle guards and soldiers (not counting Julian's rangers in Arden) are down there (on, as Ariadne mentally starts thinking of it, "Basement Level 1," with "Basement Level 2" being the Dungeons/Pattern level).

Captain Volsk is a large and impressive man with long wavy hair. "What may I do for you, milords and miladies...?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:12, Tue 09 Mar 2021.

In reply to Jade (msg # 115):

He blushes slightly when boops him. *nods* to the knowledge that she's considered things.
He then *smiles* "I don't mind Jade." *chuckles* "Believe me, it would be obvious if I did." he Looks to Ari "It is indeed nice to have a family again."

As they reach the Barracks, he nods to him "Captain, We wanted to inquire about the training for guard, specifically around who conducts the training and group coordination training."

"Our Weaponsmaster is a man named Fenton, milord..."

*nods* "How varied is his knowledge of weapons?  He is a primarily a sword and Shield trainer or Just spear?  And I assume he is good with Unit tactics and training?  I ask because what we are going to need is someone who can train on a wide variety of weapons and basics of unit fighting and coordination." Jon's tone is neutral tinged with a bit of curiosity and a bit hopeful.

"Rather more widely varied than you're expecting. Prince Benedict would not allow less..."



"Hm. Good, yes. But you might want me for training with tactics and teamwork..."

Jade perks up, "He was taught by Prince Benedict ! Oh I have read about him, if it is so we should certainly have no problems."

*smiles* "That is very good!  Legends of Uncle Benedict have even reached me.  My father was inspired by him and so mastered several weapons and installed that in me as well." Jon is clearly excited. "If you both are willing, I would like to work with you to setup training for Myself, Ariadne, Jade and Ballad, both to hone our individual weapon skills but also out ability to work as a pairs, triplets and as a quartet.  We may bring in a few others. To train with us."

"Certainly, sir. As you wish." The captain seems to find nothing unusual about young members of the royal family raised in other Shadows wishing to train for combat as quickly as possible.

"It must be known in the near future there are some Pattern walks and a diplomatic trip ahead." Jade thought it prudent to let them know before any scheduling took place.

Ariadne listened with interest

*nods* "Not counting today, we have at least 5 days until the pattern walks.  We need to nail down our schedules and we can at least begin.  Have you and Weapon Master Fenton gage our abilities over these next few days and put together a regimen for us to follow."  he looks at the Captain "Sir, where is Weapon Master Fenton currently?  We should find out if he would be willing to train us and work around both of your schedules in addition to our own, especially for the Team training sessions."

Jade was a bit nervous since the training wasn't specifically between just her family but that there would be someone else there instructing them. She hummed quietly to herself as she waited and smoothed out her skirts.

"He'll be willing, milord... it's part of his job. I'll make sure his schedule allows for it. He's doing guard duty on the castle's walls, right now... But he should be back any minute..."

*nods* "Then if it is alright with you, we shall wait." *smiles* "So, have there been any sighting of the Graymen in the area more recent than Jade's encounter in the city?" he inquires with curiosity.

Ariadne frowned,  looking skeptical
"Does he get paid extra for this?  I mean, i don't want to take up all the man's free time, at least without compensation "

*nods* "Good point, Ari.  Though hopefully, most of us will be available during what his normal shift is so that we don't eat into his personal time.   But her point is still valid." He looks at Ari and Jade "We could always take a collection between us and give it to him.  I know I am working with Rian to have much, if not all, of my expenses covered by my father's holdings vs. the Royal Treasury."

In reply to Jon (msg # 131):

Ariadne chuckled and shrugged
"I was comfortable back on Earth,  but paper money is just pretty paper here.  My father apparently comes from money, but to be honest I'm not even sure how his family is reacting to him coming back here after 30 years.  He might have been kicked out of the family,  for all i know,  and it would kind of gall me to 'ask daddy for money' like when i was a kid."

Jade laughs and then covers her mouth.

"When you walk the Pattern find a world made of gold, that has plants that flower gemstones and you should be all set for money."

Ariadne chuckled
"That feels like it's too easy.  If it were that easy, why aren't there rooms of gold and gems here?"

"Hello have you seen this place." Gestures all around.

Ariadne laughed
"Good point.  This place makes the Vatican look like a shantytown. "

"What is the Vatican ?" Jade moved away from the wall and moved closer to her cousins.

Ariadne smiled wryly
"Sorry,  i keep forgetting about Earth references.    It's one of the main religious centers on Earth, supposed made to help.the poor, but filled with gold, jewels,  and valuable artifacts "

"I bet with that kind of wealth they help the poor a lot. The church of the Narwhal does that. We give donations to the church. The church of the Unicorn here is very well appointed too but I don't think it is as interested in helping the poor. It used to be a crusading religion when Oberon ruled."

Ariadne smirked
"Yeah, don't get me started on 'crusading'.  Most of the evils done by religion is done 'to help nonbelievers'."

Jade's face kind of became expressionless for a moment then scrunched up.

"That doesn't make sense crusades are lead by the church and their templars usually."

It was obvious either Jade was acting or she really couldn't believe a crusade could be hosted for non religious reasons.

Ariadne chuckled
"Oh, it's still technically religious,  but the motivations are often political,  and the results, especially for people of a different religion,  can be devastating,  when the crusaders religion is brought to people at the tip of a sword"

"Ahhh ok, now I see what you mean. Yes for those who stand in the way of the crusade or oppose it very unhealthy or even lethal. Lands and coffers do often transfer to the church and probably some went to the old king as well. So maybe our worlds in this are not that different."

Ariadne sighed and smiled ruefully
"I'll admit that I was hoping this place,  with its longer reign of a single family,  would have been different from the chaos of my own world,  but i suppose it was too much to ask for."

Jade then says something she has read and heard.

"Well, it is said, what happens here is reflected out there. So our presence and our actions will in some way be reflected out there in endless shadow. People based on us will spring into being, our actions and indeed Amber's actions are reflected. So Ariadne you might be the change you are asking of Amber."

Ariadne stared at Jade in confusion for a moment,  then chuckled
'Well....that's a lot of pressure.   Hopefully we can be a good influence on these old people.    Though i suspect that our parents hoped for the same thing with the former king"

"It is a lot of pressure true but I come from the depths of the sea. I know pressure well. King Random was chosen by the Unicorn herself. That is a pretty big endorsement. I think all we can do is try our best, do our best."

Grinning wryly,  Ariadne shrugged
"Well, I'll admit that 'chosen by the unicorn' doesn't really mean anything to me.  I don't mean this to be disrespectful,  but that reminds me more of the superstitious nonsense of Earth than anything else.  If you trust 'the unicorn' to make those decisions,  that's fine, but i need something more logical and factual"

Jade goes pale...

"Superstitious nonsense ! The unicorn stopped two wars in that act. Brother attempting to kill brother, the family tearing itself apart. The battle at the end of the world." Jade leaves out where Ariadne's own mother died among others.

"When a goddess needs to intervene in immortal affairs it is a very serious thing." Jade shakes her head unbelievingly.

"I need to get some air. I will be back later."

Ariadne sighed to herself as Jade walked away,  rolling her eyes and smiling wryly.
She kept forgetting that religious fanatics were the same,  no matter where she was, apparently.

She had lots of things to say about this supposed "intervention", but she knew that Jade wasn't in a mindset to be able to hear it objectively.

Ariadne looked at Jon with a wry expression
"Well....THAT escalated quickly.   So, shall we get to training "

Jon watched the discussion.  He was about to say something when Jade walked off.  Jon is confused. "Yeah.  I knew she took her religion seriously, but I didn't expect that kind of response from her." *smiles* "It will pass, though, I don't think it is anything to worry about.  I mean, I don't think you were disrespectful.  You just expressed an alternate take."

*nods* "Captain, can you have him meet us in the training room?"

Ariadne nodded to Jon, and to thd Captain
"Yes, I'm definitely ready for some training

*nod* "Let's stop by the armory and pick up some Armor and weapons to use for today.  And that reminds me I need to check with Rory on the order for training equipment." looks at the captain before they leave. "Captain, could you please coordinate with Rory, Rian's nephew, to ensure the training equipment arrives and is organized?"

"There have not."




"Our recompense is not a problem. And I assure you, milady, he would rather be training than walking the walls or standing and guarding something. You're doing him a favor."




"Certainly."



"I shall."

Ariadne,  having worked with a bunch of ex-military people in movies,  was expecting m'l ore posturing and arrogance (though admittedly that might just be the ones who go into acting),  and was imporessed by the unshakable professionalism of the guard.  She nodded,  ready for more training

The armory is located adjacent to the kitchens, a vast room full of trunks and cases with historical mementos, weapons and armor on the walls as well as ‘put away’ on shelves for use. The guard on duty is a stocky, dusky-skinned young man with red hair and pretty eyelashes, and he looks—to Ariadne—like he’s doing the Amber equivalent of a crossword puzzle when Jon and Ariadne enter.

In fact he doesn’t notice them right away, and won't until they make their presence known.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:29, Wed 17 Mar 2021.

*smiles* "Excuse me guardsman, I am sorry to interrupt." Jon say in a quiet and friendly tone "But we would like to take a look at the armory for some weapons and armor to use for a bit."

The guard startles. Hard. He leaps into the air, his pencil goes spinning and so does his little pad of paper, as he scrambles to catch it. His first look is inclined to be annoyed but then he sees who all has come into the armory and he turns red instead.

“Um. Right. You are... Both?... Going to? Er, I mean, and your names are.......”

It's entirely awkward because he knows, he's pretty sure he knows, but... It's probably best not to just let two random beautiful people collect weapons and armor without vetting them... The guard can imagine his fellows laughing at him later already...

Ariadne raised an eyebrow,  not sure whether to be amused or annoyed at the slapstick quality guardianship in the castle.
"Jon and Ariadne,  unless you need more? "

“Nono, milady, milord, th-that will suffice,” the guard says, abashed and not losing the extreme flush any time soon thankyouverymuch. He clears his throat and gathers up the somewhat (okay, very) tattered shreds of his dignity. "Er, so what can I help you... both... find in terms of weapons? Or did you want to look at some of the historical curiousities? Milord and m...er, milady can wander around or- er, or I can give you a tour..."

Smiles "I think for now, we just need some basic leather armor for each of us.  For me, I am looking for a longsword, shield and a staff." Jon looks over at Ari "She will definitely want a doubled bladed axe and.." *grins* and gestures to Ari for what else she might like."

Ariadne looked to Jon, and shrugged.
"I'm okay with a general tour, just seeing the basics."

*grins* and nods "Well, Sir, um I'm sorry, we didn't get your name.?.  But you heard the young lady." he teases.

“Yes, milord,” the guard says, trying to be serious. He ruins it a little by chuckling nervously and doing the medieval equivalent of finger guns (which would be… finger bow and arrows? Snap and point?) and saying, “Heh, long as no axes get thrown at my head, though I guess that’d be y—uh..." (So it seems the gossips are definitely at it. "I mean. Yesmilordmilady.” He turns and grimaces like what are you doing with your soon-to-be-severely-shortened-life. He clears his throat and turns back like he's steeling himself to be stabbed in the gut.




"I'm Peregrine, uh, Perry, milord. O-okay, milady. Milady is from Shadow Earth, is she- er, is she not...? We have, uh... Quite a lot of Shadow Earth paraphenelia, or- uh, would you rather see other ... or I could... Right, the whole tour. So let's start over... Here. This is one of the oldest pieces, ancient Amber hist- history..."

And if it seems like neither Jon or Ariadne are going to stab him...

He'll walk them over to Oberon's first set of ring-mail, still in excellent condition, even though it is ancient... explaining what it is and throwing in a story about the last time Oberon might have worn it...

Although her father had been an historian,  and also prone to lectures and storytelling at the drop of a hat, Ari nodded, drawn into the history of this strange place, especially keen on seeing an Earth exhibit

Jon nods and winks "That is why the Axe is for her and not me.  Much safer for everyone." *chuckles* and follows, listening to his tales.

There’s a story about one of Benedict’s early polearms involving a tower made of volcanic glass, some pieces from that time the Moonriders of Ghanesh were a problem, a few odds and ends from the different Golden Circles—here’s a sword from Montevalno wielded by Bleys, here’s a shield carried by a young Prince Gérard… A series of ornate daggers from Tanus, an anlace with a hilt set with green jewel that seems to have a slightly dizzying property, belonging once to Caine...

Then on to the Earth stuff… A falchion carried by Caine on the Spanish Main, Julian’s full plate from the crusades, a saber he carried at Balaclava, of course Corwin’s sword which he wore at Waterloo, some Japanese armor and swords belonging to Benedict...

Perry nervously rambles about repair and cleaning, and shows Jon to the longswords which can be 'checked out' of the armory. Hesitantly, he shows Ariadne the axes... tall axes, short axes, fat axes, thin axes... Pollaxes, halberds, battle axes, dagger axes, scythes... Is it a weapon? It's here... There's A LOT, but there is a method to the madness.

Ariadne was a bit surprised,  and a little uncomfortable,  with the knowledge that several of the "Amber Boys" meddled with Earth wars.  She knew that they weren't all powerful gods or anything,  but it still felt like some kind of interference.   She wondered if there was evidence on Earth of their meddling,  and if that was why her father was as wrapped up in history as he was.
She felt drawn to the axes, which annoyed her in its predictability,  but she tried to embrace it.    She was familiar with many versions of the weapon from her father's work, but this was darned impressive.

Jon picks out a nice serviceable longsword not too thin, not too thick, and not too sharp since this is training.
"I'll take this one. Perry."  he takes the sheath and straps the blade on his hip.

Since she'd probably be sparring with Jon, Ariadne took a similar weapon.
The concept of "picking out a sword" was still a bit weird to her

*smiles* "Don't forget to get an Axe.  We want to train with the weapons we plan on using the most.  Which is why I will still need a shield and a staff.  While, I also like bows, for right now, we should stay focused on Melee."

Ariadne nodded,  shrugging but definitely agreeing,  and chose a battle axe

"So what are you... both... um, training... um, for?" Perry says, conversationally, as he helps Ariadne choose a battle axe. By which we mean, he does not in any way interfere with her choice, but makes a few gestures like he's going to offer this or that one but by then she's already chosen. Maybe he thinks that now is the time to swoop in all suave (cough) and get some firsthand gossip on the new royals.

Ariadne looked at the guard a little suspiciously,  wondering if the grey men were a state secret,  or if he was just out of the loop.
"There are these creepy grey assassins from out in shadow that hafe been seen in Amber, and have attacked a few of us.  Haven't you heard about that?"

"No, milady, I mean yes milady, I mean no- I mean yes we're all briefed on the gray men," he sounds a little grim, then looks puzzled. "Only I thought, er, well, it sounded as if- with these weapons choices, um- and the way milord was... well it just sounded as if the exercises might be more than just self defense..."

Ariadne frowned
"Well, with our people in danger,  we can hardly sit, waiting around in our towers, for the grey men to find us, can we?  As an Earth philosopher once said: 'Sometimes the best Defense is a good Offense'. "

*smiles* "That is a nice saying and it makes sense." Jon gives a slight shrug "Besides, you guards drill and practice both your individual skills and your unit coordination skills regularly, don't you?  And when you have new people join, you ramp them up to ensure that they are on par with the rest of the unit, correct?"

Giving a friendly smile "It is no different with us.  We are going to be 8 - 10 individuals who are coming together to fight as a unit.  So it makes sense that we would want to train and ensure our skills are sufficient and our group coordination is well honed."

Ariadne chuckled
"I never really thought of myself as enough of a 'joiner' to be a military person,  but i suppose things change "

Perry clears his throat. "Er, um, uh, of c-course, milady. That makes sense...  I believe th-that adage has been attributed to Obero- uh King Oberon here in Amber. Earth sounds as if- er, as if it's quite a war-like little place..."

(Have some Amber-citizen arrogance, a lot like the arrogance of a New Yorker, sure that everything else just isn't quite as good...)

He blinks, and gives Jon a worried/concerned look. "Um, 8-to-10? Are there more of you I haven't heard about yet...? Who- you're the captain, milord? Or is it you, milady?"

He has lead them back to a little desk with lots of books and sheaths of papers, and he opens a binder on top of the others, then rummages rather haphazardly for a pen or pencil... "This is the log where you can ch- that is, um, write down what you've borr-taken-what you're using. As far as armor... uh, if I may- may I speak frankly?"

He waits for invitation. His ears are definitely pink and he seems pretty hopeless/aware of the impression he must be making. Gulp.

Ariadne raised an amused eyebrow at the Amber king being credited with an Earth saying.   It was like the joke about reading Shakespeare "in the original Klingon"
She smiled reassuringly at the guard.  While she wasn't,  at least not yet,  a major celebrity on Earth,  she'd been recognized for a few bit parts and was somewhat accustomed to people being a bit tongue tied (though she hoped for better from royal guards).
"If you have something you need to tell us, please feel free.   I want you to be honest with us.   If about an 'armor fitting', or something personal like that,  we understand "

*smiles* "Right now, I am just the organizer.  Once we get a feel for each other and ensure all our skills are at least at a similar level, I'm sure the group will naturally find a leader.  And it may very well depend on what we are doing who is the best to lead." Jon's tone remains friendly and earnest.

He signs out the shield, armor, sword and a staff.

*nod* "Indeed, feel free to speak your mind." his posture indicates genuine interest.

“Um. I was just going to say, it’d probably be best if you commissioned armor from one of the castle armorers if not one of the artisans down in the city rather than going with the secondhand stuff… though if you just want some padding for training, we have a wide selection of stuff, milord and milady can try on or choose from—and uh, Grigor, that’s one of the castle armorers who makes sure everything’s in good repair, he, uh, can probably make some minute adjustments…”

If they seem to want to try on some of the available gear, Perry efficiently (gasp, he can be efficient? Well, in this ONE case) makes this happen.

"Are... are you going to have your training open to viewers...?"

Ariadne nodded
"I'm presuming that you guys have some kind of "one size fits all" padding we might be able to use for sparring, but i suppose getting proper armor for later is a good idea. "
She frowned questioningly
"Viewers?"

*nods* "That is a good idea, to get armor commissioned. Though for now just training."  *chuckles* "I haven't considered an audience, but no I didn't expect any." *smiles* "Thank you for the reference of Grigor, I will have him check out my traveling armor."

"Um, yes, you know... people will be interested to see what you all can do... Some of the young nobles, like, you know, they like to show off how sporting they are..."

*chuckles* "Maybe once we have some practice under our belts and coordination." *grins mischievously* "But once we are ready, perhaps we could put on an exhibition against the the guards." he gives a conspiratorial wink to Ari. "That should be entertaining."

Ariadne rolled her eyes,  but smiled.  She was used to being an example to novice trainers,  but that was on Earth.  She suspected,  once again,  that her little fish was in a much bigger pond now.
"Great, we're the latest entertainment "

Perry smiles at them both, somewhat relieved, although the smile flickers as his mind goes back over what Jon says and he raises one finger - "Uh, against?"

But they are interrupted at this moment by another guard. This man is rangy and tall with lustrous brown hair and brown eyes so dark they've got that mahogony gleam and a smattering of freckles over a nose broken at least a few times in his life.

He bows. "Milord, milady." Then apparently waits to be given leave to speak. Jon and Ariadne might recognize him from their last trip to the city, before the picnic.

*chuckles* "Don't worry Ari, not for awhile or perhaps not at all.  This is a decision for all of us to make, the exhibition."

Jon is about to respond to Perry, when the Guard arrives.

*smiles* "Nice to see you again." with warmth and friendliness evident in his tone and posture. "What can we do for you guardsman?"

The tall guard says, neutral,"I found the address and name of the old woman from your exhibition of the other day, should you still want it, milord..."

Jon brightens at the news "Oh definitely, still interested.  Do you know anything else about her?" he asks with curiosity and enthusiasm evident.

"I thought milord wished to apologize himself," the guard says, apologetically. Perry glares at the tall guard, envious of his sangfroid. The tall guard adds, "Her name is Goodwoman Grizelda Chandler and I know she is a widow, but has a large family..."

*nods* "You are correct, I do wish to apologize in person.  But I want to bring something that would be helpful and appropriate.  Gold is to often used and while it would be helpful for a time, it can foster the wrong idea." he claps the guard on the shoulder. "But not having that information, is no reflection on you.  You did excellent and commendable work identifying her." Jon is sincere and earnest as he speaks.  "So, tell me what you know and where I can find her, my friend." there is no duplicity in his tone or posture.

The guard stoically withstands the shoulder clap. "Alas, I do not know what she might want, though I'm sure she will tell you herself if you ask her. She is strongminded..."

And the guard will tell Jon and Ariadne where to find Grizelda, a house that is indeed in the same neighborhood as the weaponsmith whose axes they purchased.

*chuckles* "Relax my friend.  Thank you for your assistance.  But what you do mean about being strong willed?" he asks curiosity clearly evident on his face.  Jon is very relaxed and genuinely happy.

"Just what I said, milord... Strongminded... She has strong opinions. It was just an impression I gleaned..."

Further questioning won't turn up anything more, although the guard will do his very best to answer questions with variations of the same thing. He is polite and unhurried.

Jon *shrugs* "Thank you. I appreciate the assistance." he turns back to Ari and Perry and then turns back. "You are dismissed."

He looks to Perry, "Is there any more paperwork, we need?"

The guard nods respectfully, shoots a covert look at Perry, who flushes (he's gone all this time without flushing! Darn it), then leaves. Perry shakes his head. "No, milord, milady; I put milady's items down while you were talking."

He does offer to have somebody assist them with the basic protective gear (if they opted for it, though it will be ill-fitting) and some of the 'extra' weapons, if Jon (mostly he seems to look to Jon for direction) wants.

*smiles* "No need, but thank you Perry." as he finishes strapping on the shield and carries the staff.

he picks up the bag of armor for Jade and Jon. He turns to Ari, "Ready?"

Ariadne picked up the gear and nodded
"Ready"

Jon starts heading for the Training Hall. "Well, I don't expect this to be long.  Just enough to get a feel for him and then is will probably be close to lunch time.  After a quick bite, we can go looking for your Father and your family." Jon is in a good mood and it is very evident in how he is carrying himself, relaxed but alert for trouble.

"And if that goes well, I might try and find Grizelda this evening or tomorrow after breakfast."

Ariadne nodded and followed
"I appreciate you taking the lead on our training.  I'm experienced  with training people,  but this old fashioned stuff is a bit outside my area."

*chuckles* "Old fashioned stuff.  You are very amusing Ari.  This is more or less normal for me.  I can't speak for Ballad and Jade, but my guess is that they haven't had anything this regimented in a while.  So it will be interesting to see how they take to it." he steps closers to Ari and whispers "I expect Ballad to be the most difficult to wrangle followed by Lance who will probably just ignore us like he does with everything else."

He then gives a merry laugh, full or mirth at he envisions the discussion with Ballad.

"But, it is the least I can do to help out.  I want to make sure we are ready.  If even a quarter of what Jade and Ballad have told us about these "shadows" are true.  We will need these skills and wilderness survival skills more than ever."

Gives her a little nudge "Besides, I expect that you and Ballad will be leading us in no time."

Ariadne smiled and shrugged.
"I'm a true blue city girl, so I don't have a lot 'outdoor skills'.  I've been camping a few times, but, well, it was hardly 'roughing it'.

However, I've led exercise classes and martial arts exhibits, so I might be able to lead something."
This message was last edited by the player at 15:01, Mon 22 Mar 2021.

*smiles* "You are a natural.  I have no doubt, once you are comfortable, you will be great."

He gives her a sincere look "Do you know anything about throwing a Ball?" his face is very serious as he the smile leaves his face.
It is almost as if he remembered something.

OOC: We will return to that last line in a different thread ;)

Ariadne looked a bit puzzled
"You mean like a baseball?  I was on the high school softball team for a while, at least until I was kicked off for punching an annoying teammate "

*chuckles* "That must've been one very annoying person." you can see some of the cheer return. "What is baseball and softball?  I am not familiar with those kind of Balls."

She chuckled wryly
"She definitely was.  Though,  to be honest,  i was easy to annoy when i was a teenager.   It didn't take much to set me off in those days.  But anyway....baseball and softball are sports.  Two of the sports we play on Earth.  They're non contact sports, well, at least when other people play them, but they're fun.
What kind of sports are you talking about?"

He listens intently, curiosity evident. "That is hard for me to see, you are so relaxed, all things considering, that I figured you must have always been this 'cool' and resilient." he says with a bit of uncertainty that he used the earth term correctly and then chuckles when he realizes that Ari was talking about sports. "Ah, a banquet and dance.  They are formal occasions, do they not have them on earth?" his eye get a little larger in surprise.

Ariadne blinked in surprise,  then laughed
"Oh!  A 'ball' as in a party?  Sorry, I'm familiar with the term, but it hadn't been used much on Earth, outside of old stories, in many years,  so I didn't realize that what you meant. "
She narrowed her eyes in thought
"Well, I've never put on a formal dance and a posh party full of pomp and circumstance,  like the old fashioned medieval balls of old, bit I've definitely thrown a party or two.  I certainly understand the basics of organizing one, even if I don't know the local foods and entertainment options. "

For his first point, Ari grinned ruefully.
"I'm not totally 'calm, cool, and collected', even today,  but i was MUCH worsewhen i was younger.    Honestly,  I'm not even really that sure why.  Some of it was fighting against conformity,  as people at school tried to make me behave the
way they  believed was 'correct', but honestly,  i was always an angry kid.  I was just always ready for a fight.
Since i left school,  though,  I've found more people like me, and it was like a whole new world."

Jon's eyes are very expressive and you can see the mirth reflected in them as his laughs. "OK, well, I have never organized a party before or any type.  And Ballad recommend the Ball, because of a training exercise that I went through.  And I liked the idea of having a Ball for the 5 of us to announce to Amber that we are here officially.  And hope it might be a way for us to meet some of the nobles, prominent Merchants, etc. of the realm." *grins* "To get a pulse of how we might be perceived and received."

Gives her a bump of reassurance. "Well then you are a good actress indeed!  But I, for one, am definitely glad to know this version of you.  You seem more at peace with yourself than Lance or even I for that matter.  I think only Ballad has you beat there in being comfortable with who you are." some of the mirth, drains from his eyes and his body stiffens a bit, like when he was speaking formally with the Queen.

Ari shrugged, chuckling at the bump
"Well, i get a little insecure now and then.   Being educated by overly religious teachers will leave a few scars on your psyche.    But I've definitely made peace with a lot of it.  Of course, I've spent the last couple of years in very accepting environments,  so that helped "

She nodded
"I didn't even think about the whole 'announcing the new royals' nonsense that these fancy folks get all excited about.    It seems odd to 'announce' that we're here,  after being here for a week."

Knock Knock at the door.

Ariadne looked at the door
"Um.....come in?"

Jade steps in, "Ah good you are both here." She smiles brightly.

*smiles* "Well, yeah, but mostly it has been through rumor and word of mouth...."

Jon smiles as Jade enters, a smile that touches his eyes and he simultaneously seems to relax a bit and tense at the same time.

"Jade, I thought you busy?" he asks curiously.

"I just had a few things to do. Like talk to someone in Alva Arrington's family." She smiled brightly.

"I also got us invited to a concert tonight if you would both like to go."

Ariadne frowned in confusion
"Wait...what??"

"I met Sandwyn Rondoval who is a relation to the Arrington's on his mothers side. He told me that Alva was invited back happily on that side of the family."

"He is also the one who invited us to this concert tonight. All of us Lance and Ballad as well."

Ariadne nodded,  though she still seemed to want to feel suspicious
Then she nodded again,  visibly trying to be more relaxed
"So he's my cousin,  a few times removed?  Or however that works?  This place is getting bigger every day.    What kind of concert?"

"I am not sure to be honest, I was just so excited and it is being hosted by nobles so it is a good chance for us to make a splash that I didn't really grill Sandwyn on it. He really looks forward to meeting you Ariadne due your relationship."

Ariadne chuckled
"I'm almost feeling nervous now.   Should i feel pressure to live up to the hype?"

"I don't know what is Hype ? Is that like fame ?"

"Am I too late for training ?"

Smiling and suppressing another chuckle,  Ariadne nodded
"No, you're just in time"

"Good, I can't wait." She sets her purse and the Narwhal safely away from battle. She then looks around for a weapon.



Picking something like this out, she returns to the others.

"I got a really shiny club."

Ariadne smiled
"You're going straight to beating heads in?"

"Well, better then cutting them off I suppose you know ?"

"Ha ! Have at thee Earthlander, for I shall defend the sea and all it's dampness !"

Ariadne picked up some armor and strapped it on

"Oh armor, I might need some of that."

Looks around for some.

The guard from the armory did have someone assist with bringing some basic training armor to the training hall, as requested! So there's a nice orderly heap for Jade to go through and see if she can find anything that fits.

(You guys might want to wait for Jon to get a word in here, since he's taking lead on 'training exercises' and all. :P)

"I must be girded for battle." Looks for what might fit.

Sniffs some of the armor then holds it away from her, "Ewwww no not that one."

Ariadne laughed
"You might as well put it on.  We'll make enough of our own sweat anyway. If you're not sweating,  you're wasting your time "

"Ariadne, you want to help lace me up in this ?"

Finds some armor and starts putting it on.

"Sure thing"
The brunette started helping Jade, and it was clear she had experience with this sort of thing.

"Thank you, I have my own armor but its very different from this."

Once she was armored up.

"Ok, Im ready." she said happily.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:37, Mon 22 Mar 2021.

Jon is content to watch Jade and Ari talk.  He laughs with mirth at Jade's comment.
"Ari is right, you won't notice it once we get serious."

*nods* in appreciation of Ari's deftness and experience in armoring Jade up.

Jon takes time to armor himself up, straps on the sword and shield.  He then test out he staff as both a staff and a spear.

"Ok, Ari, I think you are the last one.  Then we just need to wait for the Fenton the Weapon Master to arrive."

As if conjured by his name, a man in the typical guardsman uniform of Amber arrives in the training room. He has pale eyes, the shape that always seems a little sad whether or not that's true. He's weathered and of indeterminate age, could be young or old, with slight silver scruff and a hint silver at his temples, though maybe he just started going silver early on.

There's nothing very special about him. He bows, "Captain Volsk informed me you wanted my presence?"

*smiles and nods* "Ah, Master Fenton, thank you for coming.  Captain Volsk, is correct. I and my cousins would like to strengthen out melee combat skills with various weapons.  With some of us specializing in certain weapons, like the axe or rapier. At the very least it would be the three of us, but I am hoping to get all five of us on training regimen."

"I see."

He looks them quietly over without saying anything, folding his hands behind his back. They all have the opportunity to feel what it's like to be a new recruit, assessed by Fenton's mild gaze.

"Who will be specializing in the ax? Who, the rapier?"

OOC: I'd ask y'all to take this opportunity to tell me how combat ready your characters seem. Do they look athletic? Is Jade holding that club correctly? Ariadne's got armor on, but I can't remember if she's holding an ax or a sword from the armory...? What's Jon doing? Gimme the goods.

Jade is probably not holding the club properly.

"I would be wishing to learn to better my rapier training."

*smiles* Jon is in a relaxed stance, but ready to react.  His has a Shield on his left arm and the sword on the left side so that it can be drawn easily with right.  He is currently holding the staff.  Jon definitely looks like he know what he is doing.  He is balanced and doesn't seem to be bothered by the weight of the armor or weapons.  His build is athletic, mostly balanced, though his upper body is a bit more developed.  He carries himself with generally with grace of a trained combatant.

"Yes.  We wanted to meet and have a quick session to allow you gage our skills so that you can help us improve our individual skills and abilities. We understand that this is serious and this to us is not a game.  We are being hunted and were lucky enough to survive. We may not get lucky again." Jon locks eyes with the weapon master, his jaw is set, there is determination in his eyes and a sincerity and honesty in his tone.

OOC: Jon might be technically, by story, be a decent fighter.  But the Dice Roller will most likely make him a kitten instead of a tiger. :)

Ariadne nodded in agreement with her cousins
"I definitely need training in using axes.  I have some experience with swords and knives, but cod use some polish there as well."

To Jade: “Milady, do you think that the weapon currently in your hand will assist you in bettering your skill with a rapier?” He sounds neutral

To Jon: “I see. And what do you wish your focus to be on, milord?”

To Ariadne: “Very well, milady. Let's get a sword in your hand to begin with.”

To all: “I will give you a few simple exercises to perform. You three are likely to be somewhat more..." How to say basically gods? "...hardy than the usual new recruits or oldtimers looking for some polish, but I will treat you no differently, unless you request I do so now. Requests?” An eyebrow raise.

"No, I was looking to thwack people, with this shiny club. I will get a rapier."

Jade changes out her weapon for the one at her side. She looked slightly embarrassed.

“To ‘thwack’ people? Why?” Mild curiosity.

Didn't Volsk say he was trained thoroughly by Benedict? Must have been trained by Benedict in senses of humor, too...

"Splish splash." she waves one hand about.

"All waves against the shore now, no need to really get into it." Jade smiled pleasantly.

Ari shrugged
"I've had experience with weapons, but my experience is more....theatrical...than practical.   To be honest,  I've never used a sword against a real enemy "

*smiles* "I am proficient with a wide variety of weapons. Longbow, short bow, crossbows, shields as range weapons and melee shield, most swords with a preference for the long sword, spears, daggers/knives and staves. Since this is melee focused training, I would like master all of my melee weapons. For the swords, the long sword and the great sword, like the one my father has kept would be the focus.  I tend towards versatility.  "  his posture remains ready and his tone direct but respectful.

"And no, Master Fenton, we expect no special treatment.  Though we may have responsibilities that pull us away from Amber to the Shadows before we complete any of the training arcs you might have."

"A small favor Master Fenton. We were invited to a social tonight so no bruises to visible parts of us would be preferable."

*grins mischievously* "That will depend on how revealing of a dress you plan to wear tonight, but does fully apply to your beautiful face." he teases her.

"Let's assume hands, wrists, ankles, my face and neck as well as my cousins. Unless Prince Jon shall go shirtless of course." Jades expressive eyes sparkled.

Ariadne chuckled
"Oh. i dunno.....a nice combat bruise might look nice for us, and give us a bit more of a good reputation as warriors "
She was smiling in a way that made it hard to know if she was serious or not.

"Right that might be a thing on Earth but not here. Pretty Princess here please." Jade said back teasingly.

Fenton raises the other eyebrow at Jade’s splish, splash, his expression blank. But he nods (more approvingly) at Ari’s answer, and Jon gets more of blankness as he describes his wishes.

At Jade's request, he... well, first he listens to the interplay between the three royal cousins.

And then he says, "Hmm. A few simple rules. One... Do what I ask of you. I do not say 'without question.' You may question me at any time, but I may choose not to answer until after you have made the attempt... Two... No flirting during lessons. Three... No gambling, either. Pitting your skill and your luck against another is gamble enough."

"As for bruises, noted. But I do not think you need be concerned about that today, milady. Now spread out. Are you ready? What I want you to do is - "

OOC: Fenton's going to have you do some exercises on your own and make adjustments that way. That's right, we're entering sports training montage territory. And we're going to roll stuff, wee.

Let's have you all roll Strength, and I'll letcha know what that means for doing the exercises. There probably won't be an XP gain here.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:16, Wed 24 Mar 2021.

15:55, Today: Jade rolled 5 using 2d6 with rolls of 4,1.  Strength check.

"Ow ow ow ow..."

...Jade doesn’t stick to task. Maybe she gets distracted or maybe she wants to show the weaponsmaster that she really does know her stuff or maybe she starts with the exercise but then slips into an old routine. Whyever it happens, instead of performing the exercise Fenton asked her, she almost perfectly—graceful as only somebody of the royal lineage can be—executes another, more difficult exercise.

Eventually, he stops her, shaking his head. “No, milady. That isn’t what I asked you to do and it does not show me what I need to see. When you are ready to try again, try again. If you don't feel like following instruction today, you may sit out.”

Feel free to try again, Jade! No additional penalty.

Ariadne smiled briefly at the rules about flirting, but didn't bother to point out the obvious.  She nodded at the rest,  not having a particular problem with any of it.

She started her workout

OOC: 17:16, Today: Ariadne rolled 8 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 4,3.  Strength .
17:16, Today: Jade 

Jade stops a moment nods slowly. As if the embarrassment might kill her. She composes herself the way she might before singing. Closed eyes more focus then she had before. When she opened her eyes she began. Being reprimanded reminded her of long ago in her duties as a maid. The sting of it she tried to hide from her cousins through grace.




16:16, Today: Jade rolled 11 using 2d6 with rolls of 5,6.  Strength check.

Jon nods accepting the rules and the rebuke.  He takes his place so that he can see the other three in the room.  He sets down the staff and removes the shield. He stretches a little bit and then begins as instructed.

OOC: 20:05, Today: Jon rolled 9 using 2d6+2 ((6,1)).  Strength

Fenton corrects Ariadne’s grip once or twice. The new grip feels awkward at first throwing her line off—but as she goes through the exercises, as she throws herself into the sheer physicality of the work, she can feel new power flowing through her arm, can feel the beginning of a business-like surety. As she goes through her workout, she can feel herself pushing. . . Perhaps because she's also aware, as she works, that this feels Real.

And it's all to good effect. Fenton, after watching Ariadne for a little while, gives her a different exercise to go through and rather than adjusting her grip this time he merely says, "Good."

. . . And then he moves on to Jon . . .

No, first he makes sure to study Jade, now that she's applying herself. He does not say anything, but he nods slightly.

Jade, however, feels like she's found a good rhythm and a steady balance, and though it is work, now that she's in it there's something of a beautiful dance to it.

Now he moves on to Jon.

First, Fenton tells Jon to move to another spot. "Don't concern yourself with them right now, milord," he tells the prince.

Then he watches, frowning, and Jon knows he doesn't start out as strongly as usual, and the harder he tries to focus, the harder it IS to focus. Fenton asks Jon a few mild questions, pointing out that he is favoring one leg over the other. A determined young man, he manages to rule himself. . .

. . . And he feels himself beginning to rise to his (own?) expectations, as if he just needed to struggle through before reaching that mental space where worries drop away and there's really only this moment where the weapon is just an extention of one's will and he is in sync.

--

Fenton keeps them at this for quite a while.

(Roll your Constitution for me, y'all.)

Jon is definitely feel the burn.
~I definitely have let my training go.~ he thinks to himself.


OOC: 20:49, Today: Jon rolled 6 using 2d6 with rolls of 3,3.  Constitution

19:35, Today: Jade rolled 5 using 2d6-1 with rolls of 4,2.  Constitution.



Jade tries to fight through any fatigue though. She is aware of some soreness in her muscles.

Ariadne responded well to Fenton's directions,  finding the man neither condescending nor patronizing,  unlike other male trainers she'd endured in Hollywood.   Of course,  the Hollywood personal training scene was overly populated with meatheads arrogant men who spent  their formative years as high school bullies.  Despite being a more "primitive" society,  Amber, it seemed,  was beyond that..  At least this time.

Thus distracted,  Ari might have pushed herself more than she should have.

OOC : .06:11, Today: Ariadne rolled 5 using 2d6 with rolls of 2,3.  Constitution

Apparently the entire royal contingent is about to collapse.

The three scions of Oberon's line are all impressive individuals. They keep up with the exercise long after their muscles begin to rebel, long after lesser mortals would be gasping for air, hearts fit to bursting...

But they are wearying, they are flagging. They can feel themselves tired. Good tired, but tired nonetheless.

Fenton hmms and stops them, then gives them a couple minutes breather while he demonstrates the next thing he wants them to do (and he is very, very good... economy of motion, a spare but forceful poetry to each 'move,' sturdy as ever any oak was...). Then they get a couple of minutes before the next exercise to talk amongst themselves while he confers with a guardsman out in the hall...

OOC: Okay, guys. Feel free to post wildly the way you do during this "break," but also gimme another Strength roll unless your character is going to ask to sit out of the next workout. -1 penalty.

"That wasn't so bad. We have to be able to defend ourselves after all. I would feel silly though asking Master Fenton to teach me Parasol techniques for defense."

A smile played across her lips as she said it though.

*smiles* "I have been thinking about it since you mentioned it.  I have some ideas, but I need to get a parasol first to try out some of my ideas." He looks over at Ari and then Jade "I definitely think he is a good choice and this is the right course for us to improve.  I haven't worked out like this since my ranger training days." Jon is relaxed and happy, which comes across in his tone and general vibe his giving off.


OOC: 15:10, Today: Jon rolled 13 using 2d6+1 ((6,6)). Sheesh.  by the power of Greyskull!

Ariadne paused to catch her breath as she listened to her cousins.   She nodded and smiled
"I think I've been getting a little lazy on Earth.  Success and fame has made me soft.   Hopefully it'll be easy to get back into the swing of training "

OOC:17:31, Today: Ariadne rolled 6 using 2d6 with rolls of 2,4.  Strength

Jade rejoined the others when they started back up. She was a bit amazed at Jon he certainly caught his breath in that little while. She herself pushed herself not wanting to be done quite yet.

Come on Jade you can do this.



17:20, Today: Jade rolled 5 using 2d6-1 with rolls of 5,1.  Strength now with -1 to fatigue.

He beams a smile at Jade and Ari "Ballad is probably gonna hate this." he gives a mirthful laugh "But I think she'll also benefit once she comes around."

He sits down for a minute while waiting for Fenton to return.  "I hope we can get Lance to join.  We should also find companions for when each of us have to go solo, so that we are never left alone in the field.  Rain has a nephew Rory, I was going to hire him as one of our companions."

(I'll give y'all results of that last round of Strength rolls/narrate the Second Wave of Exercises after you've had some back and forth, unless you don't want to wait. Justlemmeknow!)

Ariadne raised an eyebrow in amused skepticism
"You're hiring 'a companion'?  That sounds weirdly like needing to hire friends.  Reminds me of some of the sadder celebrities i met in Hollywood. "

She shrugged
'Though i suppose some mercenaries or bodyguards isn't the worst idea, because of the grey jerks out there "

"Why do you think Ballad would hate this ?" Jade glanced over.

"I don't know how much Odile would enjoy this. She is wonderful and helpful but this would be asking even more of her."

*chuckles* "Not friends, well not at first at least.  But, yes trustworthy types of Mercenaries or Guard.  I used companion, because there is no telling how long we could be out in the field.  So I would want someone, I can trust and feel comfortable talking to."

Jon nodes to Jade "Rules, timetables, etc.  You know at first she will chafe under it, fight it. But if we can get her to stay with it, I think she will come around." he looks thoughtful as his eyes get a far away look and his face relaxes for a moment before he speaks "Ballad strikes me as person who values their freedom and individuality.  Not to the detriment of others, but likes to push rules and expectations to see how far she can go.  Fenton is pretty strict, so that will probably rub her the wrong way at first."

"She will get to spend time with us though. How can she possibly turn that opportunity down ? It will be like going to school together at least a little bit."

Ariadne chuckled
"Going to School may not be the exciting draw you think it is, depending on our school experiences. "

Speaking of school. . .  Fenton returns! The second round of exercises get under way!

Ariadne finds that she keeps going back to old muscle memory bad habits, even though she knows better, now, even though Fenton only gently corrects her stance or posture or grip again. . . and this exercise involves some light engagement from Fenton, testing out Ariadne’s defenses. Ariadne is used to being able to hold her own, but it’s hard this time around, and she slips up a few times. She knows it’s not her best work, although at least she can feel where she’s going wrong and her muscles burn. Once she comes in too hard, and it's a piece of brutal elegance to behold, though it overbalances her after. . .

She is very tired.

“You will improve,” Fenton says.

Jade, as she goes through the drills, has a similar experience to Ariadne. . . except she gets distracted once or twice by what’s going on elsewhere and it causes her to slip up. She has to self-correct frequently, and when she doesn’t, Fenton gently reminds her . . . and this exercise involves some light engagement from Fenton, testing our Jade’s defenses. She feels herself hard-pressed, but perhaps it’s some consolation that Fenton was trained by Benedict. Citizens of Amber can be fairly mythic too, after all, even if they’re resigned to second string. . . Once she loses her grip on her rapier (her skirts get in the way, maybe because she's not used to fighting in open air with such a voluminous wardrobe), but manages to catch it with her off-hand. It almost looks intentional. . . to someone who wasn't skilled, she might've been able to get away with it.

She is very tired.

“You will be better,” Fenton says.

Jon feels… does very well, as if the exhaustion he’s feeling has only sharpened him. He feels . . . at home. He looks it, too—a study in perfection. This exercise involves some light engagement from Fenton, testing out Jon’s defenses . . . and although Jon feels he must stay alert, he neatly and expertly meets every testing little thing Fenton throws at him, and even causes the man to look a touch tired himself.

“Hmm,” Fenton says. He's breathing more rapidly. “Very good,” he says, inducing jealousy in all other new recruits who’ve trained under Fenton—who is sparing with his praise.

After this latest go ‘round, Fenton says, mildly, “Do miladies and milord wish to go through one more drill?” He does not sound as though he’ll judge them if they decry, but they might wonder whether this is special treatment in spite of his earlier claim that they won’t get any.

Ariadne shrugged,  chuckling wryly
"Sure, why not?"

Fenton nods approvingly at Ariadne's attitude.

"I want to see you with an axe."

He leans a tall old wooden shield against the wall, walks her the exercise he wants to see her do--and wishes her to end with throwing the axe at the shield (the target).

(Go ahead and roll Strength again, -1 penalty still in place. Then roll Dex for the throw, no penalty.)

"We could use the training Master Fenton. We appreciate this, everything will help us against these Gray men." Jade was tired she didn't hide it but she also knew she was a Princess of Amber and would not give in before her fellows.

"Let us see how you would 'thwack' with the 'shiny club'," Fenton says to Jade. He sounds very dry, but so he hands her the club, and shows her a few moves to try--walking her through how to hold the weapon in order to get the most forceful blow, etc.

(Strength roll please, Jade!)

Jade lines up and begins a series of swings with the shiny club.



19:43, Today: Jade rolled 6 using 2d6 with rolls of 2,4.  Strength.

Ariadne works on using the axe with balance and precision,  and ends with a hurl at the shield

OOC:
20:48, Today: Ariadne rolled 12 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 5,5.  Dex.
20:48, Today: Ariadne rolled 8 using 2d6 with rolls of 5,3.  Strength .

Wow Ariadne is really good with Axes. She is a natural !

*nods* "Yes, Sir, that would be a big help." Jon is tired and a bit sore, but his tone reflects only respect and his posture is still a relaxed ready stance.

Jon's next group of exercises is not with a blade. Instead, Fenton asks him to use a short spear and shield.

(Go ahead and roll Strength, -1 penalty still in place... Meant to tell that to Jade too but looks like no difference anyway :sheepish:

Summary/naration of everybody's rolls to follow Jon's!)

Jon puts on the shield, selects one of the spears and does his best to follow the routine outlined.


OOC: 14:44, Today: Jon rolled 8 using 2d6+1 ((2,5)).
STR is normally +2, with with -1 penalty = +1

The axe is once again Ariadne’s time to shine, her glory. The drill itself is challenging, and she still feels that she is correcting herself, that it takes something out of her to do the work—but she does so unerringly, and what feels so good as this kind of work?

Come time to throw the axe at the shield, and everything comes together—as if Ariadne were the axe, and the axe were Ariadne, and it went exactly where she wished it to go. If she wanted to show off, to split a hair in two—she did so. The axe struck the shield dead center of the dead center, poetry.

“Very good,” Fenton says, and now it’s Ariadne’s turn to be whispered about amongst the guardsmen later on—a subject of some jealousy. “You have a precise hand.”

—

Jade is struggling, weariness coiling through her limbs and making her as imprecise as Ariadne is precise. She’s an Amberite, and there’s a certain power in even her clumsy blows. The club, she might feel, is not her weapon—it’s much more difficult for her to switch over from the other exercises than she’d like, and she accidentally thwacks herself in the back with the club during a certain blow—it doesn’t even leave a bruise, but … Well, she’s tired.

Fenton corrects her grip a time or two, and then says, “Next time, I will see you with a trident. They are popular in Rebma, are they not? What about spears or other polearms?”

—

And Jon… The exhilarating perfection when he was engaging with Fenton, when the weariness was sharpening him, is gone and he knows it's gone, but he still does very well with spear and shield, adapting to the new exercise quickly enough. His overenthusiasm or excitement at first causes him to be corrected a time or two, but eventually he settles into a steadier rhythm. Fenton nods.

"I have seen enough," he says.

Jade nods, "Yes the guards use tridents and some spears. I was not a guard but I can certainly try with such weapons on another day."

Jade while she may be harboring a bit of jealousy is still if anything a friend and heads over to Ariadne, "You were amazing, the Ax is your weapon. I think your mother chose it, but it chose you." She gives a brilliant smile.

She then approaches Jon, "Great work, I think even Master Fenton was getting winded with the sword play. The both of you acquitted yourselves like true Amberites."

As long as no one clapped her on the back she made her leave sighting the need to shower and change for tonight's concert.

"I shall be in my colors, I think I shall add blue as well, the last of my colors which I don't wear as much. If anyone wishes to coordinate."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 19:47, Thu 25 Mar 2021.

*nods* as he finishes the routine and returns the spear to the rack.
"Are we suitable enough students for you to take us on and train?" he asks with respect and genuine curiosity, perhaps even a bit of concern on his face as he asks while removing the shield and placing it along the wall.

Jon visibly brighten as Jade complements him.
"Thank you Jade.  You did great as well." he says with a smiles and from him it is not an empty platitude, but a heartfelt and sincere as evident in his eyes.

Looking of at Ari, "I agree, the Axe is definitely your weapon."

The axe seemed like such a clumsy thing,  so bulky and awkward.   But she had to admit that it felt natural now.  She smiled at the praise and decided to make axes part of her life.

"Suitable enough? This was not an audition," Fenton says. "You three do not seek a job as castle guards, correct? I will spend the next day or so considering a plan for each of you to sharpen your skills. You are royals, and may ultimately do as you please..."

...unspoken, but very clear from his mild expression for anybody who takes a moment to look if they goof off on the exercise regime he sets them, he will be very aware that they are wasting his time, and his opinion of them will be low.

If they have no further requests, Fenton leaves them there after showing them how to put away their equipment. He has some difficulty pulling the axe from the wooden shield and requires Ariadne's help with it.

And that's it for Fenton unless you guys want to ask him anything before he leaves.

Gives him a formal bow "Thank you Master.  We look forward to the program.  Once Ballad returns, I'll bring her up to speed and find you so that you can get her setup as well."

"I may have a special weapon when next I see you Master Fenton. Custom made by myself and a master craftsman from Begma. Just to let everyone know I will be scarce for a few days I have a mission for the King I am about but I shall let you know Master Fenton when I am well and truly back. I don't want to miss too much training but I want to also take my duties importantly too."
This message was last edited by the player at 01:47, Fri 26 Mar 2021.

"What weapon?"

He doesn't question any of the rest.

"Parasol." Jade said plainly.

Fenton gazes at Jade, waiting for the punch line. He half-glances at Ariadne and Jon.

Then: "A circular canopy of cloth or wood slats on a folding metal or wooden frame supported by a central rod, used as protection against the sun, is your special weapon?"

"It worked out well against the gray men with my encounter against them. Though it wasn't sturdy the new one I have designed will be a lot more capable, and rugged. Even my old one was no normal parasol." She usually would have smiled or laughed indicating a joke but this was no joke so it was easy to maintain a straight face.

*nods* "Definitely not a joke." Jon says serious.  "Thought we might be upgrading it further with some custom materials for the canopy as well."

Ariadne smiled wryly
"I know that it sounds a bit eccentric,  Master Fenton, but a parasol that is reinforced and weaponized has definitely practical uses, one has to admit.   I would look conspicuous wandering around the castle's and city's social events with a battle axe on my shoulder,  but a lady and her parasol fit in nearly anywhere without raising nary an eyebrow.   And, if trouble were then to raise its ugly head at one of these functions,  the lady's already armed and ready for trouble"

*smiles* "Oh Jade, what time is the Concert tonight?  And do we know how far a trip it is from the Castle? And congrats on the mission." he then turns to Ari "If you want to go, we might have to postpone finding you father until tomorrow. I know I need a bath if I am to be decent for a formal function."

Jon then looks at Master Fenton. "Jade's idea and Ari's assessment are sound.  And with the right skills and dexterity it can become both an offensive and defense weapon" Jon adds to the ladies discussion of a 'battle parasol'

"I was given this contact in the castle for all the details on the concert. Sandwyn will most likely meet with us and we can take carriage there. Sounds like it will be at a Nobles estate. Your father might be there Ariadne, owing to his relations. We have time to bathe thank the Narwhal." Jade smiled brightly as even Ariadne saw the wisdom in why she chose a parasol. It may be very conspicuous to talk about here but not conspicuous in public to carry.

Fenton does not lose any of his blank reserve as they describe the utilities of a battle parasol. He quirks an eyebrow, but only says:

"The parasol may be a weapon you practice on your own time or find a master for out in shadow, but we will see..."

aka, I'm the weapons master, not the usage-of-'gadgets-invented-by-royals' master. He gives the three a bow, bidding them have fun at their entertainment, then goes about his business.

Ariadne nodded
"Yes, perhaps we'll see my father there.  Thank you again,  Master Fenton"

*nod* "Thank you Master Fenton" *grins* "I can't wait to see what Ballad and Lance thing of him and their training regimen."

He looks at Ari, "Are you OK to waiting until tomorrow to go meet with your family?  I mean, in a less social situation as a concert and party, that is."

Ariadne made a face, and shrugged
"I mean.....i suppose there's no real need to rush.  It's not like anyone is going anywhere.   Dad might want all the time he can get to reconnect a bit before bringing me into the mix, i suppose "

*nods* "I feel bad is all, because I said we could go look for your dad today after setting up the training. And I feel like I am letting you down.But the session with Master Fenton went longer than I expected and Jade got us the invite to the concert.  So to make sure we are clean and make it concert, means we have lot to do in the next couple of hours, if the three of us are definitely going." he looks down as his shoulders slump a bit.  His tone is apologetic.

Ariadne rolled her eyes,  though with a smile
"Relax, Jon.  My father has been doing his own thing for the last week,  but it's not like he's missing or something.   I'll get together with him eventually.   For all his flaws, he's always been the one constant in my life, so I'm not worried about never seeing him again"

Jon smile is full of relief.  "Thank you.  I don't want to let you, Ballad, Jade or Lance down, that is all." his posture matches his smile, he is relieved and relaxed.  The tension draining from him as he finishes putting away the gear. "I look forward to tonight.  Perhaps it will give us some ideas for our own announcement ball."  he chuckles remembering Jade's announcement.
"Sadly, dear Jade, I only have my outfit from the steps of Tir.  So while it won't be new.  I do hope it will be sufficient."

"It should be fine Jon, and Ariadne I know we bought a few fashions when we were in town. So hopefully tonight we all acquit ourselves well as royals of the realm." Jade smiled much more warmly for a moment her smile had faltered but was now back in full bloom.

"I don't even know if we should wear our coronets or not, could someone ask auntie Florimel ? I don't want to dress up too much or too little this is our first night out in noble company."

Ariadne nodded,  eyes narrowing in thought
"I agree,  Jade.  Let's not go too over the top. "

"I am a bit as clueless as the both of you when it comes to what is appropriate. That is why I wanted to check with aunt Florimel, she is really nice and seems to like us. She also knows etiquette pretty well."

Ari chuckled.
"Not to sound too arrogant, but as members of the royal family, I suspect that whatever we wear might be the new fashions for the next season."

Jade thinks about it, "Ok, let's not be presumptuous and wear the coronets then. We want people to be able to wear the same fashions and not be punished for doing so."

Jade smiled wide, "Were going to be such great friends !"


Jade's Narrator internal voice: Jade had been known to be wrong before, on occasion.

*chuckles* "Well, back home, the crowns and coronets were only worn at official court functions.  Usually hosted by the royals themselves.  It was considered petty, if you were royalty other than the King or Queen, to wear your crown or coronet at general society events.  Again, unless primarily sponsored by the crown." walks over and gives Jade a gentle pat on the shoulder. "So I agree with Ari, I think we will be fine with out them." gives Ari a wink "Besides, I don't have any such accessory. And unless Ari's mom left one in her room, I don't think Ari does either."

He steps back and looks at both of them. "But long term, I agree talking to Aunt Florimel sounds like a good idea, especially as we plan our ball.  And it probably means that the five of us will need to get coronets made."

Jade nods, "Oh, early on I found where  we could get them, it is where I got mine. Your probably right, you have been to royal functions before Jon. I have been to some but only in the capacity of." she just let the sentence die off.

"I think from what I remember your correct, though there were not that many princesses in Rebma and prince Martin was not around much."