Every princess needs a handmaid

Artorias wasn't really surprised when Idalia looked shocked and flustered at the prospect of fighting lessons. The young woman probably never defended herself a day in her life, especially given that retaliation against her masters was usually met with swift and brutal reprisal. But Briar insisted, claiming he was a great teacher, and that she wanted her handmaid to be able to protect herself if they were to be attacked by wild animals. Artorias' expression darkened a little; he didn't think wild predators would be much of a threat to the young ladies, but he could definitely think of other situations he would want them to be able to defend themselves in. Idalia had only known life as a slave, and as such would be an easy and meek target to a bandit or a raiding party. He didn't like the thought of someone ambushing her, with or without Briar, and the fireborne fae not even putting up a fight to defend her right to the life she was receiving with Artorias and Briar. If that came to be, there was a very real possibility he would never see Lia again.

The incessant urge to protect and shelter grew strong within him. He could understand her reluctance to participate in any training, but if Briar hadn't made it obvious that this was a non-negotiable deal, then he would have. "Let's not worry about that right now," he interjected, giving a soft smile to both ladies, though making a point to look only at Lia when he spoke, letting ti be known he was addressing her specifically. "We have a lot of time to discuss things like that later. For now, let's just get Lia settled in and familiar with her new home before we try to tackle fighting lessons." There, hopefully that would ease Lia's nerves and settle Briar to know he wasn't refusing her wishes.

"Artorias Carpathius" | "Corbin" | "Argent"