Anshun
Val’mara carefully took the trident from Anshun when offered and ran her hands across its surface. She tested the grip on the handle, touched the prongs with two fingers and looked at the pointed edges. Her trained eye was likely to discover details Anshun couldn’t discern, but eventually she handed it back to him. A slight nod indicated satisfaction or approval and left the interpretation to the visitor.
At the question of payment, she gave a short laugh. “Payment is only required in exchange for lessons from masters. Training can be done at any time and with anyone, provided they agree to spar with you.” Her voice was quiet and her words precise. She meant what she said, and she wouldn’t lie. Of course, the concept of honesty came natural to all Konti due to their special knowledge, some kind of sixth sense. If Anshun hadn’t already noticed, he would pretty soon.
He showed interest in his sparring partners which was a good sign in Val’mara’s book. Knowing one’s enemy proved to be a crucial point in combat. While the short-haired Konti and her sparring partner discussed the fight and exchanged tips, he followed his look and explained: “Her name is Gvana’ii. She has started training only a season ago, following her mother’s advice. But she has spirit and a lot of energy. Too much sometimes. She is like fire in battle. And sometimes fire gets out of control.” Val’mara curled her lips, musing over the metaphor for a while, before she called them, switching to Kontinese.
Gvana’ii approached and regarded the Charoda with a glance burning of curiosity. “Who is this?” she asked in accented Common, excitement in her voice. Val’mara merely said: “He would like to spar with you, trident versus suvai.” The girl looked at Anshun again, her interest further augmented. “I’d love to! Show me what a trident can do, will you? But don’t be upset if the suvai wins... because it will win.” She laughed, and dimples formed in her cheeks. Self-confidence certainly was her strength.
OOCIf there's nothing else you need from Val'mara, go ahead and open a new thread for the fight. You can rp Gvana'ii as a NPC. She's about your level of proficiency, and obviously quite vain and energetic.
Quelen
Naturally, the Suvai Pavilion was crowded as ever. The sparring room was large with several training circles painted on the floor, but still it always appeared to be crowded. Konti moved about and white hair swayed as their weapons danced together. A particularly short Konti, however, was leaning against the wall and watching them, seemingly lost in thought. A couple of throwing daggers were tucked in her belt.
When Quelen approached and addressed her, she turned her head. A radiant smile formed on her features. A stranger! What an interesting sight for someone who had never gotten away from Konti Isle, who had never felt the Call... “Hello! Kariha? Oh, she’s on the balcony, meditating or whatever she’s doing there every day. Just behind that door.” She pointed to a door at the back of the room that stood slightly ajar. Through it Quelen could catch glimpses of wood and water.
If she walked outside, she would indeed see a Konti with a long ponytail sitting on the wooden balcony with her legs crossed, a katana scabbard placed across them and her palms on her knees. When she heard Quelen’s steps, she opened her eyes, an expression of serenity on her face. “You asked for me? How can I help you?”
