Proving Grounds

The circular field was flat and barren from heavy foot traffic. The constant clashing of faux-metal blades could be heard as a war raged constantly.

“I know it must be sad for a foreigner, but we live in a land full of conflict.” Percy brooded. “We must all be trained from a young age to wield the blade.”

Katie giggled at a group of children fighting with their new toy swords.

The Practice Field was a large arena in which park guests exercised their weaponry. Many staff members were present to guide participants in using their selected arms. Of course, most participants were children.

“Is this necessary…?” Frankie itched her chin. “My sister’s like, kind of a badass already. Don’t think she needs the help.”

“I trained here, so she will too.” Percival decreed, puffing up his chest until the air blew out his haughty nose. “It’s the only way a true warrior can be forged, here in the land of Everfair.”

“Yeah, whatevs.” Serah waved, the other two boys dragging behind her as she suddenly started to leave. “I’m hitting the food stalls, you blokes have fun.”

Frankie and Katie both longingly watched her leave, realizing that it was already well past lunch and they had all the time in the world to eat these days now that Kidney’s game was long over.

“Focus!” Percy strived. “Or you won’t be spared.”

“I already beat you once already… can’t we go eat with the other guys?” Katie begged.

“Yeah. Hell, I’m going either way. Train if you want to, I’m starving.” Frankie whistled and turned her back to the sword-wielders.

“B-but…” The knight was very easily defeated. Any convictions he claimed to have about the necessity of formal training were a thin disguise for wishing to become closer to the mysterious swordswoman. For some reason, it didn’t come across to him that having lunch would be just as good if not better of a vehicle for that sort of friendly bonding- the thing was, crossing blades was the only thing he felt comfortable with.

“Can… I help you three?” A young staff member dressed as a knight approached, a little nervously, only used to dealing with children. Her nametag read “Eveline Grier.”

“Nah, we’re done here. Know any good places to eat?” Frankie almost seemed to be siphoning away the lost social energy of Percy as she addressed the worker.

“Anywhere with pancakes?” Katie leapt at the oppurtunity.

“Uh… well, I think Samson’s serves them, but they’ve been waiting on a restock all day…”

“Restock?”

“Like… you know, frozen supplies.”

“Oh! Gotcha.” Frankie wrote down the woman’s name on her list of people who broke character. “Cheerio!”

Percy was left in the dust as the less-awkward folk left him for a cheap meal.