"Well," War said, "You can always learn how to use weapons that do require skill. You can also use potentially harmful weapons just to scare people. Think about when you met me - you knew it was a real weapon that could do harm, but did I use it to hurt you, or anyone? I'll admit that I was probably over zealous, but there are situations where just having a weapon and showing you have the skill to use it - and are prepared to - can make a lot of difference."

She had noticed, out of the corner of her eye, the look Mictain gave her as she picked up the knives, and suddenly realised. Who else do I know in the Manor who carries knives... I ought to mention it to him, maybe. But I'll keep that conversation just between the two of us.

She smirked at him instead. "No one may have questioned it, but you just said "Ruby here is probably even better." I think it might set both our minds at rest to find out - after all, we'd only spend time wondering about who'd come out top, otherwise!"

She grinned, then said soberly, "Probably best to use practice swords though. And get a referee in, if we're doing it properly?"