[[ psl's, memes, overflow and AU bullshit, you wanna bother Takame as a WoL or a Non-WoL, this is the place to do it so come at me with your starters or yell at me to get off my lazy ass. i'll match styles.]]
[if canon can fudge the passage of time so can we, dammit. Takame gave a small tilt of his head, no different than his usual demeanor, but behind him his tail quirked and began to sway. Advice for swordplay, the one thing he could be called a Master at? Something he could assist with and not have to scramble for the right thing to say? Why, it's as though all his namedays have come at once.
Despite that, however, he crossed his arms, not in any sense of hostility but of contemplation.]
The styles we utilize are vastly different. Still, there are certain fundamentals one must practice when wielding any sort of blade. [A short pause.] 'Twould be easier to offer advice through a more hands on approach, I think.
[Oh, good. At least he's open to the idea. If he had any idea how enthusiastic he would be at the mention of sword fighting, he would have asked much sooner. He scratches his chin, deep in thought for a moment while he tries to remember the half-lessons he had learned from his previous mentors. "Don't hold the sharp end."]
That makes sense... And to be honest, I'm not quite sure how many fundamentals I'm aware of. But "hands on," eh? [He quirks an eyebrow suggestively, but his expression quickly changes back. Right, jokes weren't really Takame's thing... Back to business.] What do you have in mind?
[One can only feel a semblance of satisfaction when they have a chance to show off a skill. And while Takame did not respond to the jest, he was no less aware of it.
His brow furrowed, his eyes half covered behind his hair, and his tone grew deep and hushed, his words coming out slow, sultry. Appropriate given the quip that he hadn't actually ignored.]
We should go elsewhere. [He looked around them, too many people about. Too many he didn't want to bear witness to his intent. One somewhat ominous given how vague he was.] I would rather explain what I mean away from prying eyes.
[Does he have any idea how he sounds right now? If he didn't know any better, he'd think Takame was following up on his euphemism... But he looks serious. He glances around at the people bustling about -- and avoids eye contact for as long as he can, lest he start getting any more flustered than he already is at the tone Takame is using.]
Really? Er, would the training grounds suffice, or would you rather go somewhere more... Private?
... No, the training grounds will be acceptable. [His eyes narrow slightly and his head tilted. He always looked serious and this time was no exception but he also just looked confused.]
Did I give reason to assume anywhere else? [Or was Papayako that eager... and yet Takame sounded completely sincere in his question. Kami above, Papayako, where in the hells is YOUR mind?]
[HE'S HOT AND HE WAS WHISPERING ABOUT GETTING AWAY FROM THE GENERAL PUBLIC WHAT'S HE SUPPOSED TO THINK WHEN HE TALKS LIKE THAT OH THANK THE TWELVE
He nearly lets out a sigh of relief at the reply and rubs the back of his neck with a chuckle.]
Ah, good! You had me worried for a moment -- thought you had some sort of terrible secret you had to tell me, or something. Should we be off, then? I'm eager to know what you have in mind.
[SOMETHING NOT LEWD FOR FUCK'S SAKE SEEK RELIGION]
Hm? [Was... was there some kind of miscommunication on his part? He thought himself fairly clear, but even after all this time he could never truly manage... "casual".]
Ah, yes. Let us away. [Said already headed that way, soon after mumbling something or another to himself in Hingan that sounded somewhere between a question and a self reprimand.
He had a plan in mind for seeing just what Papayako was capable of, one he did not indulge while they moved to the grounds. In fact he was mostly quiet along the way unless directly addressed. He ddidn't speak at all until they arrived when he stopped, rested a hand on his hip and abruptly broke his silence.]
Your style... it is suited best to defensive purposes, correct?
the echo exists solely so that hydaelyn can scream "stop" at them
Did you say something? [He only catches the very beginning of whatever Takame had muttered to himself before he sets off, leaving him watching his back for a moment before he realizes oh, he's going, and follows after him. Seems like a lot of secrecy for some advice on how to wield a sword...]
Huh? [--Oh, right. From an outside perspective, he'd probably liken it more to distracting the enemy than defending from it, but it fits.] Well... I keep others out of harm's way, so I suppose that's right. Why do you ask?
she should have blessed them with more braincells then
[Congratulations Papayako, that's more warning than he's given anyone else he tested in this way because he is now drawing his weapon, turning on his heel and slashing in your general direction aiming right for your neck.
It was a feint, naturally, he had no intent to harm but with the unexpected sound of him brandishing his weapon and the look in his eyes that only read "threatening", one could easily assume otherwise. This is who you asked for help, Papa.]
[......Ah. Papayako opens his mouth, about to ask what he means, but the sudden movement of Takame unsheathing his blade answers his question for him. All right, yes, that is a simple reason. A small part of him wishes that it was anything but a katana, because it and the dangerous look in Takame’s eye remind him of why he picked up his sword in the first place, but that’s good. Keep the flame stoked, for he may have need of it.
Once he realizes Takame is turning to swing at him, feint or no, he quickly draws his own. He hefts it off his back and swings it forward in an attempt to place it in the path between Takame’s sword and his neck. It takes him a moment to realize that he’s NOT actively trying to kill him (up for debate), but that expression certainly has him fooled.]
Well, that’s not very sporting of you. All you had to do was ask.
[Indeed Takame's blade did not come as close to Papayako's neck as he'd intended, instead clashing against the sturdier broadsword near the hilt. The difference in size their weapons had did not make Takame step back.
He remained for a long moment, blades still together, just staring Papayako down. A full body head to toe scan he gave, noting posture, exploitable openings, sturdiness of stance, how he held his weapon. His expression did not soften the entire time.]
Your enemy will not ask. [Said coldly before finally stepping back.] I wished to test your reaction time.
[Should he say that he was just trying to lighten the mood...? Mm, no, he ought to leave it, lest he get an extra scolding from his stern teacher later. Papayako doesn’t lower his sword even after Takame steps away, still watching his hands and feet for any signs of movement.
His reflexes should be sharp, well-practiced from years of dodging harm and finding the time to cast spells in battle, but it’s probably all too clear that he hasn’t spent more than a few years with that sword on his back. Maybe not bad for a beginner, but if he’s to keep walking the path he’s chosen, then he must improve.]
They won’t be telling me what to work on, either, so I pray you’ll show me that mercy.
[There was no sense of humor to be had with this one normally, let alone when he was in the mindset of a Master of the Blade.
Takame did make note of the direction Papayako's gaze led, waiting and watching for his next move. A good sign, though he would do well not to tunnel his focus to one enemy when often there are many.
Pot calling the kettle black, perhaps. But Takame is not such a poor teacher that he would deny criticism. Not in this situation anyway. He'd be crossing his arms had he not still assumed his Samurai's stance.]
... Your movements are sluggish. Had there been true intent to kill, you would not have had the chance for a clean parry. I could have easily left you with a crippling injury. You should be moving your sword, not the other way around. [A sensitive topic, maybe, but no less true. And yet there is another point he would make, this time relaxing his stance if only to wave an accusatory finger Papayako's way.] ... And you are not holding the hilt correctly. You'll do lasting harm to your wrist if you continue as you are.
Hm. [He stays quiet, makes no attempt to deny or provide reasons for his choices, and listens with an uncharacteristic intensity. Stronger, faster... Be better. Things that should come naturally in time we may not have.
When Takame finishes speaking he glances at his hands -- his wrists are the last thing on his mind with so much already on the line. But of all the glaring problems in his swordsmanship, it seems like the one that is quickest to fix. While Papayako is mulling over the criticism and formulating what questions to ask, he stands up straight and loosens his grip on the sword.]
[A simple fix indeed, but one no less imperative if Papayako was to make true progress. And yet the smallest, most barely noticable of exacerbated sighs escaped from Takame at the other man not realizing something so bloody obvious after this much time.
Though it made him recall that not everyone grew up on the blade as he did, causing him in guilt to soften his expression as he approached, if only a little.]
Here. [He could have showed him with his own weapon but instead Takame took it upon himself to shift Papayako's hand and wrist himself.
Papayako might find that his hands are warmer than expected.] If your grip is too tense you will stress your wrist and damage your sword arm. Relax your hold and straighten your wrist like so. [Demonstrating by moving his wrist straight, his hand lingered so Papayako could commit the position to memory. After a moment he stepped back again.] Do you see?
[The sigh doesn't go unnoticed, but in the moment his focus is shifted toward paying some godsdamned attention. He prepares to carefully examine Takame's grip on his own blade, but then his hands are on top of his own and his grip tenses back up for a moment, startled by the unexpected (but not unwelcome) contact.
... His hands are warmer than he thought they would be. Papayako maintains the grip Takame has positioned for him, brow furrowed in an effort to memorize how it looks and feels.] I see... You have my thanks. ... And my apologies. My training was -- [What, "a magic rock imbued with the memories of past dark knights that I stole from a dead man?" Don't be stupid, Papayako.] Unconventional, to say the least. How do I become faster? Is it just practice?
[Had Takame been less focused on an efficient lesson, he would have been more apologetic for the sudden contact. But as it stood it would have been faster to show Papayako directly than wait for him to fumble while looking at someone's grip on an entirely different blade.
He isn't sure what to make of "unconventional", but he had the good grace to not pry. Not yet. And even for this unconventional training he had, he was still alive to call it such. That counted for something.] 'Tis a common mistake I've found even seasoned swordsmen make. They quickly found their careers coming to an early end continuing as they were. If not their lives. [He didn't pull any punches when it came to swordplay, this one.] But yes, all will come together with more training.
[Papayako frowns, looking back to his hands around the blade’s hilt. One mistake and you’re bleeding out on the battlefield with a sword at your neck, drifting in and out of consciousness while a... The details aren’t important. He knows all too well how all the knowledge in the world won’t save you from a slip-up, but maybe advice would help him to avoid them in the future. He appears to be malms away while he ponders it, but he snaps back to the present after a moment.] If it won’t keep you from other tasks, shall we continue? I haven’t had many opportunities to spar with a master.
[Takame was about to swing at him again noticing he was trailing off, just as a warning to stay focused at all times. Papayako should really consider himself thankful Takame felt merciful.
And realized that the other Au Ra probably knew that fully well considering his new choice of hairstyle and conspicuous scar. And no one liked being reminded of those. Moving away from that subject, he nodded.]
I had nothing to attend to, you needn't worry about keeping me. [And he went into his offensive stance again.]
[He could have laughed it off and said he deserved it, gotten another scolding... Maybe it's good that Takame felt generous. He'd like to say he would have noticed if Takame was getting ready to strike, but... Well, he would've gotten knocked on his arse and he knows it.]
Heh, mayhap nothing you haven't seen before, but I'll do my best to keep up!
[Papayako returns to his position, mindful of his grip on his weapon. Right, move faster, pay attention... They always say that the best defense is a good offense, but that requires him to be on Takame's master level, doesn't it? He shifts his weight and swings at Takame with enough dexterity to keep it from connecting -- if he even gets close, that is.]
[True enough, he isn't unfamiliar with broadsword fighters considering he had a hand in training Zhian. Still, something about Papayako's style felt different from her's.
The swing was easily predictable and parried, but less so that it would have been had Papayako's grip been weak. It took Takame some effort to parry, he needed to be aware of how he managed his own weight to not be overwhelmed by the difference in scale. It was enough to disrupt his stance slightly.]
... Better. [Said flatly, but not unimpressed as before. He straightened his position again.] Try again. [He's expecting for a theoretical hit to land this time.]
[Well, O'Zhian's style probably aims for proper sword-fighting, not "grievous bodily harm with little regard to personal well-being." Self-preservation is a little low on the Dark Knight priority list in the grand scheme of things, maybe. He's leaving himself open in places he really shouldn't.
He grunts with effort as he swings again. A little harder, a little faster... Papayako's never been a lazy student. After his swing he shifts back and quickly tries to re-assume a defensive position, just in case Takame counters.]
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no subject
if canon can fudge the passage of time so can we, dammit.Takame gave a small tilt of his head, no different than his usual demeanor, but behind him his tail quirked and began to sway. Advice for swordplay, the one thing he could be called a Master at? Something he could assist with and not have to scramble for the right thing to say? Why, it's as though all his namedays have come at once.Despite that, however, he crossed his arms, not in any sense of hostility but of contemplation.]
The styles we utilize are vastly different. Still, there are certain fundamentals one must practice when wielding any sort of blade. [A short pause.] 'Twould be easier to offer advice through a more hands on approach, I think.
no subject
"Don't hold the sharp end."]That makes sense... And to be honest, I'm not quite sure how many fundamentals I'm aware of. But "hands on," eh? [He quirks an eyebrow suggestively, but his expression quickly changes back. Right, jokes weren't really Takame's thing... Back to business.] What do you have in mind?
no subject
His brow furrowed, his eyes half covered behind his hair, and his tone grew deep and hushed, his words coming out slow, sultry. Appropriate given the quip that he hadn't actually ignored.]
We should go elsewhere. [He looked around them, too many people about. Too many he didn't want to bear witness to his intent. One somewhat ominous given how vague he was.] I would rather explain what I mean away from prying eyes.
no subject
[Does he have any idea how he sounds right now? If he didn't know any better, he'd think Takame was following up on his euphemism... But he looks serious. He glances around at the people bustling about -- and avoids eye contact for as long as he can, lest he start getting any more flustered than he already is at the tone Takame is using.]
Really? Er, would the training grounds suffice, or would you rather go somewhere more... Private?
no subject
Did I give reason to assume anywhere else? [Or was Papayako that eager... and yet Takame sounded completely sincere in his question. Kami above, Papayako, where in the hells is YOUR mind?]
help them...
HE'S HOT AND HE WAS WHISPERING ABOUT GETTING AWAY FROM THE GENERAL PUBLIC WHAT'S HE SUPPOSED TO THINK WHEN HE TALKS LIKE THATOH THANK THE TWELVE
He nearly lets out a sigh of relief at the reply and rubs the back of his neck with a chuckle.]
Ah, good! You had me worried for a moment -- thought you had some sort of terrible secret you had to tell me, or something. Should we be off, then? I'm eager to know what you have in mind.
they can't even help themselves
SOMETHING NOT LEWD FOR FUCK'S SAKE SEEK RELIGION]Hm? [Was... was there some kind of miscommunication on his part? He thought himself fairly clear, but even after all this time he could never truly manage... "casual".]
Ah, yes. Let us away. [Said already headed that way, soon after mumbling something or another to himself in Hingan that sounded somewhere between a question and a self reprimand.
He had a plan in mind for seeing just what Papayako was capable of, one he did not indulge while they moved to the grounds. In fact he was mostly quiet along the way unless directly addressed. He ddidn't speak at all until they arrived when he stopped, rested a hand on his hip and abruptly broke his silence.]
Your style... it is suited best to defensive purposes, correct?
the echo exists solely so that hydaelyn can scream "stop" at them
listen,]Did you say something? [He only catches the very beginning of whatever Takame had muttered to himself before he sets off, leaving him watching his back for a moment before he realizes oh, he's going, and follows after him. Seems like a lot of secrecy for some advice on how to wield a sword...]
Huh? [--Oh, right. From an outside perspective, he'd probably liken it more to distracting the enemy than defending from it, but it fits.] Well... I keep others out of harm's way, so I suppose that's right. Why do you ask?
she should have blessed them with more braincells then
Then defend.
[Congratulations Papayako, that's more warning than he's given anyone else he tested in this way because he is now drawing his weapon, turning on his heel and slashing in your general direction aiming right for your neck.
It was a feint, naturally, he had no intent to harm but with the unexpected sound of him brandishing his weapon and the look in his eyes that only read "threatening", one could easily assume otherwise. This is who you asked for help, Papa.]
please ma’am, even just one would help,
Once he realizes Takame is turning to swing at him, feint or no, he quickly draws his own. He hefts it off his back and swings it forward in an attempt to place it in the path between Takame’s sword and his neck. It takes him a moment to realize that he’s NOT actively trying to kill him (up for debate), but that expression certainly has him fooled.]
Well, that’s not very sporting of you. All you had to do was ask.
"no"
He remained for a long moment, blades still together, just staring Papayako down. A full body head to toe scan he gave, noting posture, exploitable openings, sturdiness of stance, how he held his weapon. His expression did not soften the entire time.]
Your enemy will not ask. [Said coldly before finally stepping back.] I wished to test your reaction time.
:(
[Should he say that he was just trying to lighten the mood...? Mm, no, he ought to leave it, lest he get an extra scolding from his stern teacher later. Papayako doesn’t lower his sword even after Takame steps away, still watching his hands and feet for any signs of movement.
His reflexes should be sharp, well-practiced from years of dodging harm and finding the time to cast spells in battle, but it’s probably all too clear that he hasn’t spent more than a few years with that sword on his back. Maybe not bad for a beginner, but if he’s to keep walking the path he’s chosen, then he must improve.]
They won’t be telling me what to work on, either, so I pray you’ll show me that mercy.
no subject
Takame did make note of the direction Papayako's gaze led, waiting and watching for his next move. A good sign, though he would do well not to tunnel his focus to one enemy when often there are many.
Pot calling the kettle black, perhaps. But Takame is not such a poor teacher that he would deny criticism. Not in this situation anyway. He'd be crossing his arms had he not still assumed his Samurai's stance.]
... Your movements are sluggish. Had there been true intent to kill, you would not have had the chance for a clean parry. I could have easily left you with a crippling injury. You should be moving your sword, not the other way around. [A sensitive topic, maybe, but no less true. And yet there is another point he would make, this time relaxing his stance if only to wave an accusatory finger Papayako's way.] ... And you are not holding the hilt correctly. You'll do lasting harm to your wrist if you continue as you are.
no subject
Things that should come naturally in time we may not have.
When Takame finishes speaking he glances at his hands -- his wrists are the last thing on his mind with so much already on the line. But of all the glaring problems in his swordsmanship, it seems like the one that is quickest to fix. While Papayako is mulling over the criticism and formulating what questions to ask, he stands up straight and loosens his grip on the sword.]
Show me. The correct way, I mean.
no subject
Though it made him recall that not everyone grew up on the blade as he did, causing him in guilt to soften his expression as he approached, if only a little.]
Here. [He could have showed him with his own weapon but instead Takame took it upon himself to shift Papayako's hand and wrist himself.
Papayako might find that his hands are warmer than expected.] If your grip is too tense you will stress your wrist and damage your sword arm. Relax your hold and straighten your wrist like so. [Demonstrating by moving his wrist straight, his hand lingered so Papayako could commit the position to memory. After a moment he stepped back again.] Do you see?
no subject
... His hands are warmer than he thought they would be. Papayako maintains the grip Takame has positioned for him, brow furrowed in an effort to memorize how it looks and feels.] I see... You have my thanks. ... And my apologies. My training was -- [What, "a magic rock imbued with the memories of past dark knights that I stole from a dead man?" Don't be stupid, Papayako.] Unconventional, to say the least. How do I become faster? Is it just practice?
you're a menace
He isn't sure what to make of "unconventional", but he had the good grace to not pry. Not yet. And even for this unconventional training he had, he was still alive to call it such. That counted for something.] 'Tis a common mistake I've found even seasoned swordsmen make. They quickly found their careers coming to an early end continuing as they were. If not their lives. [He didn't pull any punches when it came to swordplay, this one.] But yes, all will come together with more training.
The latest menace to ever live but thank u
[Papayako frowns, looking back to his hands around the blade’s hilt. One mistake and you’re bleeding out on the battlefield with a sword at your neck, drifting in and out of consciousness while a... The details aren’t important. He knows all too well how all the knowledge in the world won’t save you from a slip-up, but maybe advice would help him to avoid them in the future. He appears to be malms away while he ponders it, but he snaps back to the present after a moment.] If it won’t keep you from other tasks, shall we continue? I haven’t had many opportunities to spar with a master.
its psl land i'll backtag it into eternity
And realized that the other Au Ra probably knew that fully well considering his new choice of hairstyle and conspicuous scar. And no one liked being reminded of those. Moving away from that subject, he nodded.]
I had nothing to attend to, you needn't worry about keeping me. [And he went into his offensive stance again.]
Show me what else you have to offer.
BOY I'M REALLY PUTTING THAT TO THE TEST HUH o(-(
Heh, mayhap nothing you haven't seen before, but I'll do my best to keep up!
[Papayako returns to his position, mindful of his grip on his weapon. Right, move faster, pay attention... They always say that the best defense is a good offense, but that requires him to be on Takame's master level, doesn't it? He shifts his weight and swings at Takame with enough dexterity to keep it from connecting -- if he even gets close, that is.]
YOU UNDERESTIMATE ME
The swing was easily predictable and parried, but less so that it would have been had Papayako's grip been weak. It took Takame some effort to parry, he needed to be aware of how he managed his own weight to not be overwhelmed by the difference in scale. It was enough to disrupt his stance slightly.]
... Better. [Said flatly, but not unimpressed as before. He straightened his position again.] Try again. [He's expecting for a theoretical hit to land this time.]
h...happy new year orz
He grunts with effort as he swings again. A little harder, a little faster... Papayako's never been a lazy student. After his swing he shifts back and quickly tries to re-assume a defensive position, just in case Takame counters.]
How's that?