Carlisle Castle, Ward of the North.

[René Artois]

Roger nodded once more,
I've always been a light sleeper sir.

[Mors Vigilia]

After a little more discussion between Walter and his Baron, the steward turned back to Roger.

You shall start as my tutee. Within in a year - depending on how quickly you take to your studies - you may also begin duties as a squire.

[René Artois]

Roger finally had taken in the gravity of what was happening, and he beamed up at the old man,
Thank you sir, I won't let you down!

[Mors Vigilia]

Walter placed a friendly hand upon Roger's shoulder, he knew the work that this would take and was unsure whether the boy would be able to take the strain.

This will be hard, I do not lie. From this point only I shall address you in this tongue, everyone else shall talk to you in French expecting you to understand.

It was the language of those that Roger would have to serve. Walter could not, nor would not stop the boy from talking to old friends and his sister in English but he had to learn the proper way to talk to others.

Carlisle rose from his seat without a word. With a nod to Roger he swept past, out of the hall. Roger could smell the still-fresh mud that had caked the Baron's boots, a testament to the man's less than orthodox approach to his station.

[René Artois]

Roger simply nodded, and watched Richard exit.

[Mors Vigilia]

In the days to come, Roger found his life already taking a different shape. He had been moved into a large hall where the unmarried knights of the castle slept, as did their squires and other servants that they wanted close at hand. The floor was strewn with rough pallets and a few chairs were all that passed for furniture. Roger's sister was moved into the cook's quarters as it seemed their now permanent residence in the castle didn't grant them the same privileges as being guests had.

Walter was with Roger most of the hours in a day, sometimes leaving him with work that was to be completed upon his return, though he never specified when that would be. He was being taught the very basics of the language, as a child would learn, though it was vital that he grasped them quickly so that he could understand those around him.

[René Artois]

It was not long before Roger had picked up the basics of the language, and other basic manners. It seemed he was a fairly fast learner. He was fine with his new place to sleep, and felt more at home there than in the comfy beds they had been given before. He got to know some of the other squires and learnt to be properly respectful to the knights, many of whom grew to like him.

[Mors Vigilia]

After one lesson, Walter took Roger aside.

How are you finding your life here so far?

[René Artois]

Roger thought for a second before answering.
Good. Thank you.
He replied in awfully pronounced French.

[Mors Vigilia]

Walter smiled at Roger's use of French, at least the boy was enthusiastic.

And your sister?

[René Artois]

She is fine as well. Safe and happy. She could not have wanted more than this.

[Mors Vigilia]

That is good news.

Walter straightened a little, his bones audibly popping as he stretched.

Did you know that some of the knights here have approached me concerning your training?

[René Artois]

What about it?

[Mors Vigilia]

They wish you to begin your martial training with them as your tutors.

[René Artois]

Roger grew nervous but slightly excited too,
When do I start?
He replied in French, trying to sound confident.

[Mors Vigilia]

Walter shook his head.

No, I do not doubt that you are up for the challenge, as it were, though I do not want it taking time away from the lessons that you are still receiving from me.

[René Artois]

He nodded and shrugged,
When you think I am ready then.

[Mors Vigilia]

Roger had been learning faster than expected, but Walter required even more.

When the Baron returns I want you able to be able to accompany him to the border. That'll require you understanding everything that he asks of you.

Even if it might only be, "fetch this" or "go away".

[René Artois]

Won't I need to fight there as well?

[Mors Vigilia]

That shouldn't be required, dear boy. Stay close to the Baron and he'll keep you safe.

Walter prepared to leave.

But first you must learn to understand him. I shall return at first light.