A Sparring Match in the Courtyards

[Lucius Malfoy]

Ser Tancred de Lanquetot would proceed out into the courtyards of the Castle, having been ordered by His Majesty to perform a show of swordsmanship with one of his palace guards. Tancred was out in the courtyard, stretching as he waited for His Majesty and opponent to be brought forth. He even went about practicing some of his skills with a blade.

[Raglan]

ooc; sorry, my net connection seems to be rather rubbish, i've been trying to reply!

Sir James Mortimer, one of the kings drill instructors makes his way over to Ser Tancred. The man is dressed in norman mail, and carries a broadsword and shield. Like any good Norman he prefers the mace, but the sword will be a good enough test as most are at least somewhat proffecient at it as well.

You are ready?

[Lucius Malfoy]

Tancred would notice one of the King's drill instructors come forth. He was already in his Norman mail armor and had his sword in hand. He picked up his shield from a nearby servant who was holding it for him. He nods to James.

I am ready.

[Raglan]

The man gives a small nod, then launches straight into an attack, his sword whistling around at Tancreds head. He was using the flat of his blade - it was a surprise attack after all - and would likely leave him with a ringing head if it lands.

[Lucius Malfoy]

Tancred would see the flat part of the blade coming down. He reacted as fast as he could. He would raise his own shield to parry the blow before striking forward with his blade. It was aiming to parry away his opponents shield and leave him open to a shield thrust.

[Raglan]

Sir James grins as his sword rings against the shield, and blocks the return with his own shield. Slowing he drops into a defensive stance and waits to see what will happen next.

[Lucius Malfoy]

Tancred noticed how quick James was. He would then rushed his shield forward, smashing it against the defensive stance before swinging his sword along the right side of James' position.

[Raglan]

James lets his shield bang against Tancred's sheild, and then uses his own sword to deflect the attack before dropping his shoulder and shield bashing again.

[Lucius Malfoy]

Tancred allowed this shield bashing. He moved back slightly as if showing that the shield bash was forceful enough. He then countered with a strong shield bash that would strike at the left side of James' shield in order to open James' defense to a strike by his sword.

[Raglan]

James however hadn't let himself get into a (literal) shoving match, and steps neatly to the side, allowing Tancred to overextend his weight. James simply tries a thrust from the side.

[Lucius Malfoy]

Tancred barely deflected the blow, forcing his sword arm around to counter with his shield arm extended. This overextended his stance for awhile, forcing him to react quickly. He reformed his stance, moving with a defensive stance around James, eyeing him carefully.

[Raglan]

James laughed, impressed at the men's ability. Stepping back he says

Enough. It's clear you have some ability, and that is all I was to test. If you stay I'd be pleased to help you improve. Now you should change and return to the king he has another test in mind for you.

[Lucius Malfoy]

Tancred dropped his shield against his legs, removing his helmet as well.

Well whenever you have time, we can gladly spar some more. Hard to find a good opponent these days.

He grins at the drill instructor. He then looks at the castle.

Where shall I be meeting His Majesty to get the next test?

[Raglan]

He's headed to Leicester, you should meet him there.

[Lucius Malfoy]

Then I shall ride for Leicester.

With that, Tancred grabs his shield and rushes out of the courtyard.