The painting was a paradox. Sharp, penetrating eyes contrasted with the congenial smile on a man with a quiet legacy. Since Lamoine’s passing, Hubert had felt the weight of unmet expectations. The eyes of his friend pierced him to the heart. Dragon’s Gate Dueling Sword is meant to foster citizenship, sportsmanship and leadership. The barons' need to emulate these values and take an interest in the youth of this city. The board must make sure this place doesn’t go to rot.
It hadn’t gone to rot, but Hubert was sure the school was never meant to be a museum, or a private dojo. There had been other factors, of course. Funding, finding teachers, the interests of the barons themselves. In the past few years, the board had worked to re-establish Dragon’s Gate Dueling Sword as a school for youth interested in the sport. The former baroness Eden Parker had been a remarkable asset, helping them climb out of debt and look for qualified instructors.
The congenial smile on the portrait seemed to thin slightly. It’s not enough.
Hubert sighed. His finger absently tapped on the large calendar spread out on his desk. The date was marked - Board Meeting - Invite the Baroness. His chair scraped across the wooden floor as he stood. Reaching up, Hubert donned his hat and made his way to the parking lot. A small electric vehicle, recently polished, awaited him. It would be a quick drive to the bakery.
*** Old Market District, Bak’d
Michelle sat in her office, going over business projections with Mel. “We’ll need to hire new staff. As much as I want to be here personally, my focus is too divided.”
“This was my idea anyway, so don’t feel bad about that. I’m just glad you bought in and put up the initial investment.” Mel’s ruby lips grinned happily at her friend.
“Speaking of which, I think we should discuss your compe-”
Two quick raps sounded at the door. Michelle paused, the staff knew not to interrupt her - with very few exceptions. Instinctively she thought of Derrick. “Come in.”
Jojo’s dark, thick, curly hair popped in shyly. “Sorry Michelle! I just… he said he’s from Dragon’s Gate Dueling Sword. He asked for a Baroness? Are you… are you a flippin Baroness?!”
“It’s an honorary title Jojo. I’m not royalty. Tell him I’ll be out in fifteen minutes.”
Twenty minutes later, Mellie left the office with a skip in her step. Michelle stopped in the doorway, quickly spotting her visitor. It was hard to miss the white, broad-brimmed Stetson. “Hubert. Come on in.”
“Baroness. I won’t take much of your time,” Hubert stepped in the door and sat down at the offered chair. “There is a board meeting for the Dragon’s Gate Dueling Sword this Sunday night. I’d like you to attend. We want your input, and we have some ideas that we hope you can present to the Baron’s Council.”
Dragon’s Gate Dueling Sword Board of Directors
Chair: Hubert Fontaine, DBA. Director of Program & Business Development, RhyDin College
Treasurer: Eden Park. Professional Duelist
Secretary: Harry Haynes, BA, MA. Director of Library Services, RhyDin Institute of Magical Technology
Dragon’s Gate Dueling Sword Board Meeting Agenda, Aug 25th
1. Call to Order - Hubert Fontaine
2. Roll Call - Harry Haynes
3. Approval of the Agenda - Harry Haynes
4. Approval of Last Months Minutes: July 28th, 2019 - Harry Haynes
5. Treasurer’s Report - Eden Parker
6. Old Business
Dragon’s Gate Block Party, Aug 29th
Recruitment - Rayna Stewart
Fundraising - Eden Parker
Fall enrollment - Harry Haynes
Demographics and statistics - Harry Haynes
Partnerships with local schools
Kabuki Street Community School - Wakana Funayama
New Haven High School - Asta Hanover
Dragon’s Gate Middle & High Schools - Asta Hanover
Instructor List - Hubert Fontaine
7. New Business
Partnership with Baron’s and Overlord - Hubert Fontaine, Michelle Montoya
Mentorship program
Guest demonstration and instruction
Competition Schedule - Hubert Fontaine
8. Additions to the Agenda - Open
9. Calendar - Harry Haynes
10. Adjournment
((Playable/Vapor Component: Anyone is interested in vaporing/writing about their youth/children/NPC’s attending the Dragon’s Gate Dueling Sword, please feel free to do so! If you want more details, just let me know. If you want to be a board member let me know.))
((Eden Parker and Wakana Funayama used with player's permission.))
Michelle sat across from Hubert, him with a glass of port and she with an ice-cold water. They had been discussing the Block Party and what they might do differently next year. A lull had fallen in the conversation and she was looking up at the painting of Lamoine. Hubert noticed her gaze and set the port on a coaster embossed with crossed swords.
“This place was his life’s work.” The baroness shifted in her chair to look at Hubert more directly. “Even after he sold it to Ms. Laurent he was an active part of the board and worked tirelessly to foster citizenship, leadership and most of all love for the sport. After his first bout with cancer he just didn’t have the energy for it - that’s when he brought me on board. The Duel of Swords owns quite a bit of property here, but they don’t invest in it like they do the arena or the annex. Some of our Barons have been better than others.”
“I know you wanted to start the initiative right away, but considering the upcoming Baron’s Tournament, I suggest we wait until there is a new Overlord. Either way, I’ll make sure I put your proposal forward to the new Overlord and the Baron’s Council.”
“They need to invest in their future, Baroness. Without the youth, the sport will eventually die.”
As he approached the venerable structure for the first time since he’d last held the Barony, Ebon found himself strangely awed. He had been invited to attend a meeting that could well change the face of the Duel of Swords, and it left him somewhat humbled.
Hubert Fontaine rose as he entered the sitting room where they were to meet. “Good afternoon, Baron. It’s a pleasure to have you here again.”
“The pleasure and honor are mine, sir.” Ebon shook the man’s hand before they both sat down. “Will the Overlord be joining us?” He used Michelle’s official title because, somehow, referring to her as Overbaker seemed less appropriate under the circumstances. “I hope I’m not too early.”
“No, I understand she will be joining us shortly,” Hubert replied with a smile, courteous without being overly forward. “I wanted to take the opportunity to speak with you privately first. Since you are the new Baron, I was wondering how familiar you are with the Dragon’s Gate Dueling Sword? Its history?”
A slight flush darkened Ebon’s tanned features. “I am sad to say, not so much. When I was the Baron before, I spent far too little time here. Eden had mentioned it to me when we talked after the challenge, of course, and I made a mental note to reach out to you. Unfortunately, life had other plans for me, and then I was gone. Still, I have learned a few things.” At Hubert’s silent prompting, he went on. “This was originally owned and run by the instructor Lamoine,” and he nodded towards where that man’s portrait hung like a guardian over the school, “and he agreed to sell it to the Duel of Swords to carry on his legacy. A task that the leaders of the sport have not always lived up to, I fear, myself included as I said. Until now.”
“You think you can improve the situation?”
“I hope I can help, and I plan to do so, no matter how long I reign as Baron, here or elsewhere.” There was a determination that bordered on ferocity underlying Ebon’s tone. “The dueling sports foster strength of mind, body, and spirit alike, and the Duel of Swords in particular helps to tie communities together in each of the city’s districts. This place should embody that core of the sport, as a place for students to strengthen those virtues in themselves and thus strengthen us all.”
Last edited by Ebon Ilnaren on Mon Oct 07, 2019 12:14 am, edited 1 time in total.
Michelle walked up the familiar steps to the two-story brick building. The wooden double doors bore the marks of frequent use and loving care. As she stepped in, she noted the carpet replacement had finally finished - beige with a printed gold-swirling pattern. Immediately to her left were a waiting room and three offices. Ahead of her, a hallway to her left lead to the Dining Room, Museum, and an assortment of meeting rooms. To the right was the instructional wing with classrooms and the training centre. The north-east corner office adjacent to the meeting room was lit, the door ajar and two men chatting inside. She smiled, it was just like Hubert to meet Ebon and get a read on him ahead of time.
Lamoine’s eyes seemed to settle on her as she entered the room. Michelle secretly believed the portrait was enchanted. In the centre of the room were a round table and three over-stuffed burgundy armchairs. She noted the desk had been removed as had the bookshelf. Probably part of the remodelling.
“Good evening Ebon, Hubert.”
Hubert stood the moment she entered the room. “Lady Montoya, a pleasure as always.” He gestured to the seat next to Ebon. “We were just talking about the task ahead of us.” Michelle sat down, setting her tote to the side and filling up a glass of water from the pitcher on the table. She shifted her gaze to Ebon with a smile, curious to hear more.
“Indeed,” added Ebon, “I was sharing my thoughts with Hubert here about what the Dragon’s Gate Dueling Sword could do, for the sport and for RhyDin as a whole. With our support, and that of the other Barons, we could build a solid foundation for the future of our city.” Then he paused a moment before chuckling softly. “Listen to me, sounding like I’m campaigning again. Old habits dying hard, I suppose.”
“I think it’s great Ebon, we need that kind of enthusiasm and charisma. Do you have any ideas of what you’d like to do as Baron of Dragon’s Gate to help build that foundation?”
Ebon’s brow furrowed with thought as he considered the question. “One of the differences between the Duel of Swords and the other sports, in my opinion, is that connection to the communities within each district. You know what I mean, Michelle; you must have had the same sense when you organized a district block party. It’s not enough just to learn how to fight well with blade or staff. As Mr, Fontaine here has told me, Instructor Lamoine sought to instill in his students a sense of courtesy and leadership, as well as dueling skill. So I would encourage community outreach from the students, and at the same time invite the citizens of Dragon’s Gate to support the Dueling Sword as much as possible.”
“How would you achieve that?” The question came from Hubert.
“Oh, I can imagine a number of ways. Fund-raising within the community to support the school’s expenses. Michelle,” and he turned to the Overlord, “I think you suggested a tournament among the students?”
She nodded, “I was thinking of a tournament but I was actually considering hosting a for-fun tournament with our dueling community. We could have an entry fee where half the sum went to the winner and half went to the Dragon’s Gate Dueling Sword. Perhaps we could ask some of the local businesses to donate prizes as well for first, second and third place.”
“I can help arrange that. I still know many of the shopkeeps and proprietors from my days in office.” Ebon looked back to Hubert. “Are there any businesses that have already offered support to the Sword?”
Hubert gestured to Michelle. “Formally, only Bak’d. I daresay we could get others, though. The Red Orc Brewery, for example, which is right here in the district.”
“There are others outside of Dragon’s Gate that could--and likely would--be willing to donate without much convincing. I make up a list and press the flesh a bit.”
Michelle nodded, “You’d likely have better luck than either of us. You are well known and established here, and your service as Governor will be an asset in ‘pressing the flesh’ as you say. Speaking of which, has Hubert told you of our initiative regarding Baron’s and guest instruction?”
“Yes, he did. I understand that some of the Barons are onboard, but at least one declined. Let’s see.” Ebon ticked off names on his fingers as he spoke them. “Jewell and Gren are willing to stand in as instructors, and myself of course. I expect Mallory will be up for the challenge; she has a somewhat full schedule, but she’s got the teaching chops so there’s that. I’m… afraid I don’t know what to make of Arithon, but the other Barons seem approachable.”
Michelle nodded. “That’s about right. Arithon has been missing for some time, and of course we have a number of people with challenge grants so we may see some changes. I expect that most, if not all, of the Baron’s will respond positively to your invitations - schedules permitting.”
“Well, I will feel out the other Barons, potential Barons, and other prominent duelists within our sport. Give me a week to make the rounds in person, see who I can see, and after that I will reach out via courier to those I haven’t run into, inviting them to participate.” Ebon sat silent for a moment’s pause. “I do agree that most will accept; one thing that holds true for us all is that, whether we admit it our not, we crave appreciation and acknowledgement of our skill. Even the humblest of us.”
Hubert spoke up then, almost reprovingly. “This isn’t about massaging your egos.”
“True, it’s not,” agreed Ebon. “The goal here is to support the Dueling Sword as a place for the future of our sport to grow and blossom. You must admit, however, that a good ‘ego massage’, as you so aptly phrased it, can be a useful recruitment tool.” Even Hubert had to nod at that.
“Speaking as a baker,” chimed in Michelle, grinning, “I know the value of good ingredients, and that principle applies equally well here. Each of our potential instructors brings something uniquely their own to the mix, in terms of both experience and style.”
Ebon snapped his fingers and pointed to her. “Excellent point, Michelle! We all spring from different backgrounds, with varying personalities that are reflected in our approaches to dueling, even our choice of weapons. It may be called the Duel of Swords, but not all of us use them; I’m partial to a staff, myself, and I’ve seen everything from axes to rapiers, from knives to spears. The students will benefit from that variety of instruction to find the right fit for themselves.”
“And not just within the ring, but outside of it as well,” added the Overbaker, “with courtesy, grace, and leadership.”
“All very important! We don’t need more Jonns in this sport.” Ebon looked to Michelle, who pursed her lips slightly in response.
“So then, madame, sir, I think we have a plan to help the Dragon’s Gate Dueling Sword realize its full potential.” Hubert rose to his feet, and the other two soon stood as well. “There are, of course, logistic concerns, but we can deal with those as they arise. Having such prominent duelists as instructors here will be a draw for students, and for parents hoping to find their children the best teachers. Personally I would rather have to cope with a surplus of students than see these halls half-empty, and I think my old friend would agree.” He gestured to the portrait of Lamoine that had watched over the meeting as almost a silent participant.
“Indeed!” Ebon offered the man his hand, and they shook, and then turned to Michelle. “Well, I will reach out to the other Barons and see what they have to say. Hopefully I’ll see one or two, at least, at the Arena next Thursday. If not, then I’ll send messages all around.”
“Was there anything else for today?” Michelle’s tone was casual and polite, not the least bit hurried.
Hubert shook his head. “No, I think we’ve laid some foundations for how to approach this. Now it’s up to the Baron.”
That made Ebon chuckle amusedly. “No pressure. Well, if we’re done planning for now, I thought I might see what some of the students are up to today. Lay on, MacDuff.” He gestured for Hubert to lead the way; the man shook his head in bemusement as he headed out of the room, while Ebon looked to Michelle. “Coming, Overbaker?”
The following letter was sent from Ebon to several leading figures in the Duel of Swords, including all of the other Barons except Gren, with whom he had already spoken.
12 October From the Baron’s desk, Dragon’s Gate
Greetings! I hope this missive finds you well and in good spirits. I am writing as Baron of Dragon’s Gate on behalf of the Dragon’s Gate Dueling Sword. This institution has been a part of Rhy’Din and the Duel of Swords for decades. While it has served as the Dragon’s Gate baronial manor since current district baronies were established, that merely scratches the surface of what it is and what it can be.
The DGDS (if you’ll pardon the abbreviation) is a place of instruction, in the sport of armed dueling and the values that bring out the best in our sport: etiquette and courtesy towards one another, leadership and inspiration within our community. It could and should be a foundation for the future, where students from across Rhy’Din and beyond develop the skills they need to grow and challenge themselves, and at the same time give us all incentive to improve ourselves.
Sadly, the DGDS in recent years has not been able to live up to its full potential, and this failure is ours as much as anyone’s. As the acknowledged leaders in the Arena, we should be taking up the task of inspiring and teaching future duelists. That is why, with the approval of the Overlord, I am reaching out to you with an invitation.
I ask that each of you take the time to volunteer as an instructor at the Dragon’s Gate Dueling Sword, at least once a month but more if your schedule permits and you are willing. This would allow you a venue to demonstrate your considerable skills to a new generation, helping to leave a legacy that will live for ages to come. Every one of you brings a unique gift to the sport, and while this is entirely voluntary, it is my sincerest hope that you will join me in this endeavour and help shape the future of the Duel of Swords.
While he had received some responses to his letter, it was not quite what he'd hoped for. So far three Barons had accepted the invitation to be guest instructors at the Dueling Sword. Ebon resolved to give it another week to see what would happen with Old Market and then make the rounds once again.
In the meantime, as reigning Baron for Dragon's Gate, he made a point to visit the manor daily, to meet with the students and pass on what knowledge he could. For several hours Ebon would watch them train, passing along advice or demonstrating a few moves and tricks he'd picked up over the years.
He also held lectures--albeit rather informally structured ones--about leadership and service to the community. "It's easy to believe that might makes you right. That being a better fighter inherently makes you a better person. It does not. That way of thinking leads to arrogance, and even cruelty. No, strive to be better than you are, not better than anyone else. In doing that, you will serve as an inspiration to others, and that can be the most greatest reward that the dueling sports have to offer."
"She plans to use it for what?" Hubert's flat tone expressed both disbelief and dismay at the news from Ebon. "A private dojo?"
"That's what she said." Ebon sighed wearily and sat down in the chair, while Hubert sat opposite him. "I must admit, I was not surprised, but I was disappointed. Solitude and study are no unworthy desires, but the Manor should be more than that. Still, she did raise a valid point, in that the school should have a space free of the Barons' whims. To that end... I made some inquiries, pending approval of the board." Unrolling a map of the district, he smoothed it out and pointed to where the baronial Manor was located. "There are a few mansions in Dragon's Gate that are available for sale, and I've located two not far from here that would be suitable."
Furrows creased Hubert's brow as he frowned. "It seems wrong, moving the Sword. This was Lamoine's legacy."
Ebon looked up from the map. "The school is his legacy, the lessons for future generations of duelists. You told me as much, when I first came here. I don't think he would begrudge our moving its location."
"You're right." Hubert's voice was solemn, accepting the truth of it as he leaned over to examine the map, and the potential homes that Ebon had identified. "A building is a building, but the legacy remains."
With the new Baron's announcement that the Dragon's Gate Dueling Sword would be reinstated at the baronial manor, Ebon made no delay in contacting Hubert to arrange for relocating the students and facilities. It wasn't far to go--the interim facility was only a few blocks from the manor--but there was still equipment to pack up, and logistics to manage. Still, the work progressed with remarkable speed, due primarily to Hubert's skill at keeping the chaos to a minumum.
"Do you have any misgivings about the youth of your new Baroness, Hubert?" Ebon gave the man a curious look.
"Were it another child, perhaps, but I have watched young Miss Harker grow up in the dueling rings. I have seen her fight, and I have seen her serve as Baron before. No, no," he interjected, pointing to some boxes that a pair of movers were about to shift, "take the weapon crates first, they're heavier, so they need to be at the bottom of the cart. No, my friend," and he returned his attention to Ebon, "I am satisfied, and happy that she has seen fit to restore Lamoine's legacy to its rightful home."
Since winning her place as Baroness of Dragon's Gate, Maggie spent mornings in training sessions. It was not so long ago that she was a three year old brandishing a wooden sword in games with several of her cousins. Each of them, as well as her older relatives, had a weapon they prefered. Maggie's had come to be an oak staff. Being more petite than most of her opponents, the staff had given her a bit of reach. Much like a tightrope walker, she had learned to use the weapon to help her balance.
Hubert Fontaine stood back with her as they watched the newest 5-10 year old group.
"What do you think, Mr. Fontaine? They look like a lively bunch." Maggie smiled thoughtfully as she addressed the school's long time director.
"I am curious to hear your thoughts first, Baroness." Hubert smiled back. While he had watched Maggie's dueling performances over the years, he hadn't actually had a chance to talk to her.
"Unless it violates a protocol, you're welcome to call me Maggie." She was quiet for a bit as she looked over the dozen students. "Well..." Her apprehension faded as she came to terms with the fact that she was now one of the teachers that would shape the future of this group of children. She kept her voice quiet. "Of the twelve on the floor, we have four that really want to be here." Discreetly, Maggie looked between the students and the roll call list. She pointed out the names, two were a brother/sister pairing. She gestured to more names. "Two are serious about learning, but need to build confidence." A little smile appeared as Maggie took a couple of minutes to assess the other six.
"I will not!" came the voice of a girl from across the room as she exchanged blows with her taller opponent.
"You will!" the growling voice of a boy, about one year her senior, commanded. He was the eldest in this class.
Hubert was headed over to break up the pair. Maggie shook her head and murmured, "Let's give them just a moment."
The other students had turned their attention toward the fracas. Another girl, one that Maggie pointed out as a serious student was putting her two coppers in. "You can't talk to her that way! She's my maid's daughter!"
The boy growled again. "That's why I can! She's beneath me!"
"Mr. Fontaine, I've got this." Maggie's lips flatlined at the boy's remark. When crossing to the sparring rings with staff in hand, she glanced in a mirror. Maggie had seen Rachael Blackthorne make a similar expression over the years and now understood part of what it meant. "Enough!" Maggie shouted.
"She's beneath me, I'm Lord..." At Maggie's command, he sneered. "You, too, are beneath me."
"Joanna, step out of the ring." She gestured for the nine year old to move out of the way. Joanna didn't need to be told twice. The others gathered to see how their young teacher was going to handle what could become the class's bully. "Let's see what you've got, Lord Brandermeir." In her head, Maggie was sizing up this ten year old. He was broadly built and tall for his age. They were echoes of the man he might become, but his attitude needed to be checked.
The lad smirked and swung the practice sword for Maggie's shoulder. She used her staff to balance, dropped down and swept him off his feet with a quick motion of the long weapon. Young Brandermeir howled with indignance as he hit the floor. Maggie offered him a hand up. He was her student, not her enemy. He refused the help and rolled to stand. Maggie nodded her approval as he got back up. The boy was arrogant, but not stupid. "First lesson, class, how to get back up when you fall."
Chittering broke out among the other students. A small redhead, Abby Fenner, murmured to the dark haired boy near her, "He's gonna be sore if this keeps up."
Charles, age 7, nodded his agreement to Abby. "You been a student here before?"
Tucking a lock of stray hair behind a gently pointed ear, Abby shook her head. "No, the Baroness is my sister's daughter."
Charles seemed impressed by that. "Ooooh!"
Brandermeir heard Abby and commanded, "Call your sister's child to heel then!"
Abby laughed. "Here, she's my teacher and if you think I want bad marks on my report card, fergetaboutit! Besides, I'm betting your nasty mean butt is gonna get the whoopin' it deserves!"
Maggie stifled a laugh behind her hand and cleared her throat. "Abby, that will do." A few of the other children suddenly got wide eyed as Abby's comment sank in. Grades! Bad grades meant explaining them to parents and others.
"My father is ..."
Maggie cut the boy off with a staff poke to his belly. "Not here," Maggie said, "and if you run your mouth like that when someone means you harm, it might not be just the wind that gets knocked out of you."
He huffed at her. "But no one will harm me, I am guarded all the time."
Hubert looked to find two men sitting just outside the classroom. They had accompanied the boy. "Shall I call them in for you, young man?"
The boy turned bright red. "No."
"Next lesson, class, you are not your parents nor anyone but you. When you come into this classroom, you are a student and on equal footing with everyone else. You are here to learn not cause a disturbance. Mr. Fontaine and I are your teachers. If anyone has a problem with that, you may sit class out today and not return. Some of you have already had lessons, some of you learn more quickly, some will need time to catch up. Some of you might not be so sure you want to be here. Your families signed you up. I don't want to have to tell them that I can't teach any of you because you don't behave well."
As Maggie was talking, Brandermeir used his wooden sword as a paddle on her backside. "I am avenged!"
The Baby Baroness didn't get angry at the sneaky attack. She smiled wryly as she realized something she said had sunk in. Maggie made a quick sweep of the walls, some with mirrors, with her eyes. She flipped the staff under her arm and poked backward. Unprepared for that response, the boy was hit and toppled. Letting the staff fall, Maggie spun quickly to prevent the child from falling. People were entering the outer room to gather their children when lessons ended.
"For those with parents and others arriving to take you home, you may join them now. Except you." She singled out her opponent. The students filed out. Maggie pondered what they would say about the day's lessons. She waited for the others to leave before talking to Brandermeir. "The lessons I want you to think about for next time are these. No matter who your family is, you need to find your own pathway. Because your father is a high lord doesn't mean you are. While you might be in line to fill his shoes, you need to learn to do that in your way and time."
"You come from a well connected family, surely, that's been in your favor." His manner of speaking showed that he had been given the beginnings of lessons in protocol.
Maggie chose her words carefully. "In some respects, yes. In others, no. When you follow in someone else's footsteps, people expect certain things from you. My grandmother has made sure each of her children had a good education; gave them the tools to better themselves. It's rather ungrateful to misuse that kind of gift." She upnodded toward the window into the waiting area. "Those guards are not always going to be there to watch over you. You need to learn to protect yourself. Set a good example, be a leader they will want to follow, not one they will want to leave behind." Maggie didn't expand on that idea.
"Anything else ... Baroness?" He used the title begrudgingly, but he used it.
She set the practice staff back on the rack as she nodded. "Yes." Mairead was quiet for a moment before saying, "One must always win their own spurs, Brandermeir. No one can do it for you." She held her index finger in a hold on position. "If we meet outside this classroom and you insist on formality, you may call me Lady Harker because Lady Knight Marshal of Navarra is lengthy. If you don't, however, you can call me Maggie like just about everyone else does."
The lad whistled. The teenager wasn't that much older than he was. "Sounds impressive!"
"I suppose, but losing or almost losing some you love to gain an impressive title is a weighty endeavour." She knew more than she wanted to about that. Despite her student seeming to want more questions answered, Maggie politely cut him off, "You're free to go. Your guards are waiting."
Afterward, Maggie and Hubert had a brief chat. While the elder said she needed more experience handling some conflicts, she had handled things rather well. Maggie told Hubert, "I need to make him understand how that inheritance thing actually works. Someone dies for someone else to get it. Like many other things, there is a price for it."
In the waiting area, Nicole Brock crouched to greet her little sister, "What'd you learn today, Abby?"
"Not to annoy the teacher." Abby nodded as sagely as her eight years allowed.
Nicole laughed. "Let's go pick up Maddie and get some lunch!"
As they walked, Abby asked. "Nikki, who is Anubis Karos?"
Nicole paused a moment before helping Abby into the back seat of the four door pickup. "Where did you hear that name?"
"I heard Mama say she needed to ask him for help." Abby buckled her seatbelt.
"He's ... a friend of the family." It was the best answer she knew to give the eight year old. "If Mom is planning to ask for his help, she's planning to do something very important." Nicole knew her mother didn't ask favors of the Egyptian without a great deal of consideration.
"I guess we will know soon. Maggie's meeting her for lunch and they are springing her from the hospital today!" Abby sounded delighted at the prospect of having her mother home again.
"And those who have not swords can still die upon them." - Eowyn, shieldmaiden of Rohan
Maggie set up the chessboard in her office as she prepared to meet Ellie for their first official meeting as student and teacher. While Ellie was a student of Magic and not weapons, Maggie believed that the school was a good place for their first official meeting. Haru had been coming along well. He learned quickly and used his lessons in the rings. From what Maggie had seen, they also served him well when they were fighting off the flock of giant chickens and other things! Maggie chuckled as she remembered the expressions on Pharlen’s face. Well, there’s never a dull moment with Mrs. V.
Ebon Ilnaren was the guest instructor for the day. He was demonstrating his staff techniques and planned to show the youngsters how to wield dual scimitars. With the exception of the class instigator, Brandermeir, the oldest student in the class, Maggie’s students were giving him their full attention. The lad just seemed bored out of his wits. The Baroness was confident that Ebon would have no problem keeping the young man out of trouble.
She studied the chessboard as she put the last pieces in place. “What can I teach you, Ellie?” she mused quietly.
What did you teach the others? A feminine voice spoke.
The disembodied voice caught her attention. “Geeze, Zaff… I told you to not..”
“You would prefer I appear with the others able to see?”
“Be better than they start thinking I’ve lost all of my sanity.” Maggie lowered one brow as the Old Soul took shape.
“I shall do my best to not frighten them.”
The spectre was tall and willowy as she would have looked had she survived. Maggie could see a resemblance between her mother and Zaphira. The sapphire blue eyes stood out against fair skin that in life would have been kissed by the Mediteranean sun. The dark hair had hints of golden red highlights.
“I still don’t understand how you can appear as an adult when you weren’t born.”
“I still await that moment.”
Maggie’s brows furrowed. “Someday, I’m going to meet you…. Please don’t tell me they plan on me being your mother. That would be way too weird.” She made a dismissive gesture. “Besides, you had advice to offer?”
“How do you advise your other students? Start from there. Method, first.”
“So, follow Grandpa Tass’s advice of every duel being a lesson and work from there.”
“Roots and wings are the gifts he gave you, Μάγκι. Help Ellie find hers.”
"And those who have not swords can still die upon them." - Eowyn, shieldmaiden of Rohan
The camera clicked on. Music could be heard in the background as the morning class went through their warm ups with one of the other instructors. Maggie swayed to the steady drum beat for a minute before speaking.
Challenge tonight and I’m hoping I’ll still be teaching here come Monday. As I learned when I held Old Market for so long, titles eventually become albatrosses around people’s necks. What so many fail to see when stepping up, there will always be someone that wants it more on any given day. I’m not ready to leave this place, just yet, but I learned from Gran, always have a backup plan. That plan is to teach at the Academy once I leave Dragon’s Gate Sword. Some of the parents have decided their kids should go there as well once I leave as Baroness. Maybe they are tired of boarding their kids.
Something that is often forgotten is that this place isn’t just a day school. Many students live here in the dorm. Some revel in that little bit of independence from their family. Others, well, they get homesick; that’s normal. This has been a great experience for me. Ebon Ilnaren, who offered at the beginning, and others have come forward in this past year to teach. Since he was Baron of Dragon's Gate, he already knew several of the students. I learned many things from him. One of these days, I should ask if it’s ok to call him Uncle Ebon since he’s Aunt Ari’s heart-brother.
I felt comfortable with the idea of teaching here with Eden Parker as Baroness. She was ok with me staying since she has her own work to do. Most, if not all, people that meet her become fond of her. She’s just got this … warmth about her. Like the sun warming the body, but her light warms hearts. She’s also got a killer right hook! The serious mood was broken for a moment with a laugh.
My Swords titles have never defined me as a person. That was something I learned from Maria Graziano. I remember being in line with Mama for autographs. Maria was signing posters and one of the kids said she wanted to be like Maria. Among other things, Maria told her she should go to law school. Things associated with dueling have given me a nice nest egg. The notoriety has helped in getting sponsors for projects like the West Side Old Market Urgent Care and Shelter and Sarengrave House. Those are things that can help others. Giving back is important, but it shouldn't just be about what someone gives to those that duel; it should be about more than that.
Mallory remains as Archmage. Do I think I could have done better? Possibly. I don’t think the Citadel of the Stars is for me, not just yet. The Elemental Towers are where I need to be right now. One of the most common deaths for children is accidental drowning. The books in the Tower of Water have helped me connect dots to some of the faces of my visitors and to the records in Rachael’s cold cases. The archives at the Rhydin Public Library have also been a great help. Solving these cases aren’t likely to bring happy results. It’s one more child’s soul that will have a name restored and a family with answers and some kind of closure. Gran often reminds me that we can’t help everyone. However, the more young people that use the tools offered, the less that will be visiting me before they cross over.
I’m sure there are people that think I hired Caleb Feren to challenge Hope. They don’t know me well if they believe that. Why would I do that when I could have challenged on my own? When I’m ready, I’ll challenge no matter who is in the proverbial hot seat.
The music stopped and cheers echoed from the main room.
Time to roll and if this is going to be my last day here, I’m gonna make it memorable. Later on, Sal is coming here for chess.
The camera clicked off.
"And those who have not swords can still die upon them." - Eowyn, shieldmaiden of Rohan
The camera clicked on and panned over the currently empty practice room and the path to the office. Maggie set the camera on bookshelf to record as she packed her things. Special care was taken with the bear themed chess set that Sal crafted for her.
So, today will be my last day teaching as Baroness of Dragon's Gate. I've been preparing the kids for this for some time. On Sunday, the place officially is in Anya's care. I was glad to hear her telling Uncle Ebon that teachers are welcome to continue as it's best for the students. When I saw how caring she was with David when she thought he was lost, I knew she was good with kids. That's the first step to being a good teacher, building rapport.
The kids will be fine. I've grown protective of them and that started before I learned what was in store for me in the future. This chapter closes for me and a new one begins, I'm looking forward to a short rest without looking over my shoulder. I'm glad Anya won. I feel better knowing the real legacy of Dragon's Gate Sword School, its students, will be in good hands; the hands of a caring friend. Jaycy owes money to the person that unseated me as Baroness, I hope she remembers to pay Anya.
My rest won't last long as the family is shuffling things around to fill the gaps made by Gran's departure. We don't know if or when she will return and might be the most frightening thing I've ever experienced. The lack of her presence creates many holes. After my year here and my experience with the Navarran Army, I'm ready for just about anything, but not that...
She was quiet a bit before finishing up.
Here's to the next chapter.
Maggie carried her things out to the Mercedes and returned to write a note that was tacked up on the school's notice board.
To the students of Dragon's Gate Dueling Sword School,
It has been my honor and pleasure to have been your teacher for this past year. I think I learned as much from you as I hope you did from me. Should you wish to contact me, you are welcome to leave word at Harker's Dueling and Defense Academy in Old Temple.
I wish my successor, Baroness Anya de la Rose, the best of luck for her time here. Please welcome her and give her the same chance you gave me. I am sure you will find her to be an asset to the school and her weapons' skills to be excellent. She has graciously invited teachers to continue their work with you. In the future, I might take her up on that offer.
I wish you all success, good health and happiness in your futures,
Maggie
Mairead E. Harker
Baroness of Dragon's Gate
Lady Knight Marshal of Navarra
Personal notes were given to her Squires, Haru Jeong and Dris to thank them for their support along with a voucher for a weapon or armor item of their choice from Lemnos Craftworks.
"And those who have not swords can still die upon them." - Eowyn, shieldmaiden of Rohan
