Thread: Squire's Secret (Benny and Gunner)

Friderick had a sharp glance when Jacques gave him a bit of lip but he let it slide. The first day would be rough for him. The next few days no less so. But learn now, learn fast, and he would be as tough as nails on the boniest nun. He wasnt going to win any points with the lad, who would be a future Duke and would indeed outrank the Baron of Alnerwick. He did regret his sternness a little but in a sport that would only a thin line from games and tournaments to death and fatal duels, there was no space for timidity or gentleness either. Jacques returned with the shield, evidently an effort to hold. It had to be, to stop sword strokes, piercing lances, and the hammering of maces and axes. The boy did good for the first part, while his strength was fresh and still heated from his own quarreling with the other squires. For a boy so skinny and slender, he had remarkable stamina, more than what Friderick expected. He was impressed, though he concealed it for now. After some time, the boy began to falter. His arms grew weak, sore from the exertion. But they would definitely grow after this and many days of this. Finally he could not and dropped the shield, yielding to his good mercy. Friderick decided to show consideration, sheathing his sword. He came over and clapped his hand on the back of Jacques. Others have suffered worse when holding a shield for the first time. You did well, Esquire. He complimented the boy, taking the shield and slinging it around his back, tying the leather bindings over his chest. Well practice again at dusk before sleep and again every morning after, unless it becomes second nature to you. For now, Friderick glanced up at the sun, shielding his eyes before looking back down and blinking, its time for us to hit the road again. Archmouth is a few days ride. If you need anything, you get it now from this village or you wont have the chance. Otherwise, fetch us horses, have them saddled and waiting in the courtyard. Fill our water flasks with fresh water from the town well. I will pay for our room and join you shortly. Turning, he moved back towards the tavern and wrapped up their affairs there, paying for lodgings, stabling of their horses, and anything else left on their tab. If the tavern wench had anything to say about her mishap with the young Lancaster lord, she didnt say though there was a dark look in her eye whenever she glanced towards the Baron. Finally, he came to the courtyard where the rest of their party was gathering. Six knights, six esquires. Ten horses, with two pulling carts and wagons laden with supplies, lances, and trunks of their clothing and personal effects. Two extra horses served as pack animals and accompanying the dozen nobles were four other men-at-arms and man-servants to help with camp. When Friderick found Jacques Lancaster again, he handed the boy a furled staff and banner . My own. Friderick said. Passed down through the generations of my family. No doubt you have one as well, encrusted with gemstones and fine threading. He remarked drily. You carry this whenever we ride, always to my right and a little bit behind. At tournaments, you precede me on the sands with this token. One day, youll have a runt of your own doing the same. Exciting stuff, huh? Friderick said. The three roses are my previous victories. You lose those tokens, you pay out of pocket for a replacement. He warned and looked aside. He then espied Ser Hermannus of the Snow and his Esquire Fabien Duverger with their own horses. Fabien cast a resentful stare at Jacques but jerked when Friderick raised his arm. Hail Ser Hermannus. A word, if you please. Friderick called out. Your Esquire as well. Ser Hermannus, having heard some report of the incident, gestured to his squire and the pair came over. The other knights and some squires watched from the corner of their eyes as the two pairs came to face each other. But the two knights were civil. Morning, Ser Friderick. Hermannus greeted. He was a middle-aged knight, scarred and rigid. My squire tells me yours shed his blood in an unfair match. Unfair maybe, aye. Friderick answered. But the boy was pressed and wasnt exactly given an opportunity to honorably level the playing field. Nonetheless, Jacques sees the error of his way and will apologize. He lies. Fabien insisted. He threatened me with steel when I was looking just to spare. He has a temper. He accused but Friderick put his hand out pre-emptively to restrain Jacques if he had anything to say. A foolish challenge then. Just because hes smaller you should not have judged his merits on that alone. Friderick defended his squire. Come now, Hermannus said with a tired sigh, the sun has barely risen and there is no need for debate when the blame has already been accepted and acknowledged. Your apology will end it, Esquire Lancaster. Friderick nodded in agreement and gestured to Jacques to make his apology. Fabien was not content with having put on more blame for the injury to his pride, worse than his own body, but turned to Jacques nonetheless with a triumphant look. Others looked on. Who didnt like seeing a high lord put in their place? But Friderick had Jacques side. Say it and forget about it, that was his mantra.