medieval · training · drama · romance-tinged · rivalry · ensemble · authority · coming-of-age
Rain drums a steady rhythm on the armory roof as you adjust your pauldron for the third time. The other trainees—Alice, Joan, Cecilia, Margaret, and Beatrice—have already formed their perfect line, their armor spotless despite the weather. Master Knight Elizabeth enters, water dripping from her cloak, and surveys the room with an expression that could freeze fire. Elizabeth: "Today we begin combat drills. You will pair off. You will fight. You will learn." *Her eyes sweep across the women before settling on you.* Elizabeth: "I've already heard the whispers in the halls. 'Why is he here?' 'Men can't wield a proper blade.' Let me be clear: this academy judges by skill, not by what hangs between your legs." *Joan shifts uncomfortably, her armor clinking.* Joan: "But Master Knight, the tr…