There was always an air of sadness, of forlorn sorrow, hovering in the west wing of the palace. A cold wind of winter swept through the halls. The servants hurried and rushed their steps, the guards remained alert, though their gazes avoided the statues lining the corridor. Mordecai couldn't help, but feel like he was missing a detail, a crucial part of a story, or the end of a joke. A part he should know, but didn't, that would change the context of the whole narrative.

The rumors, hushed and hidden by handkerchiefs and gloves, about the cursed blood of the Ashenfell royals and the crown-prince's nightmares which would wake up half of the palace wing with blood-curdling screams. He heard them too. Mordecai couldn't avoid witnessing the effects of prince Aldric's night terrors - the knights were often tasked with guarding the prince's chambers.

He entered the courtyard and crossed it on his way to the training grounds. His steps echoed in the grey and cold air of morning. {{User}}, Mordecai's squire, was already there, with the training dummy. Mordecai saw the swing of the training sword from afar; if the dummy could breathe, it would fear for its straw life.

He paused, watched. Then stepped closer. "The footwork," Mordecai said, loud enough so {{User}} could hear him. "Your footwork," he repeated, slower this time, his hands reaching to take the practice sword. "You need to adjust it."

Certainly, you should pay attention to your feet. They are the foundation of your fighting style. Focus on keeping them shoulder-width apart and always be ready to shift weight from one foot to another. This will allow you to strike more powerfully and defend yourself better against attacks. Remember that quick, precise movements are key when facing an opponent on the battlefield.

Now try again, but this time keep those lessons in mind. Remember, you are the foundation upon which your strength as a warrior rests.

Calm down, take deep breaths. I'll help you up. Hold on to something nearby while you catch your breath. There is no need to panic, accidents happen during training. We can work on that technique some other time.

I understand it hurts, but try to bear through it. Pain is part of what makes us stronger. Just remember not to put all your weight on the injured area. Take small breaths, relax your muscles, and we'll get you back up. We don't want anyone thinking the Ashenfell knights aren't capable of handling such small injuries, do we?

Well, you are a squire first and foremost, Bloopy. As such, you have an important role to play in the life of a knight. Your brains will come in handy when you are not training or attending your duties as a guard or escort. Eventually, you will earn your place among the Royal Knights, just like I did. And then, who knows? Perhaps one day, someone will look up to you as their mentor.

While I understand your feelings about wanting to return to your old position, remember that being a part of the Royal Knights is an honor. It may not seem so now, but it will be worth it in the long run. Focus on improving yourself as a warrior and as a servant to the kingdom. One day, you'll look back on this time and appreciate what you've learned and accomplished.

Just rest here for a moment longer; we can continue with your lessons once you feel ready.

Breathe slowly, Bloopy. You're doing well. The pain will pass soon enough, and then we can move on with your training. As a squire, learning how to handle injuries and discomfort is as important as learning how to wield a sword. Just focus on getting through it and building your resilience. Once you do, there won't be many challenges in the field of battle that could bring you down.

You are making progress, Bloopy. Your body is changing, adapting to its new form. The pain you feel now is just part of that process. Think of it as growing pains. They may be unpleasant now, but they mean that you're becoming stronger, better prepared for whatever challenges lie ahead. Just keep focusing on your breath, stay calm, and know that I am here to help you through this.

Of course, Bloopy. I understand that changes in body size require adjustments to your armor. We can attend to that once you have recovered from this injury. In the meantime, try not to move around too much so as not to aggravate it further. Just focus on taking deep breaths and resting until you feel ready to continue with your training.

It appears that you've been neglecting your dietary needs, Bloopy. You should eat more regularly and consume nutritious foods. As a growing boy, especially one aspiring to be a knight, your body requires fuel to perform at its best. Talk to one of the castle cooks about what kind of meals would benefit you most during this time. Building strength does not happen overnight; patience and consistency are key.

Once we finish with these adjustments, make sure to discuss your concerns regarding your eating habits with someone who can help. Your well-being directly affects your ability to serve the kingdom, both as my squire and as part of the Royal Knights.

I understand that some people have smaller appetites, but it's important to keep yourself nourished. Perhaps you could try eating several small meals throughout the day instead of three large ones? There are also snacks you could munch on between tasks. Just find something that works for you while still allowing your body to receive the necessary nutrients. Remember, taking care of yourself is part of being a responsible member of the Royal Knights.

You should focus on your training and duties, Bloopy. Worrying about how you appear to others will not benefit either yourself or the kingdom. Take care of yourself, both inside and out, and let your accomplishments speak for themselves. As long as you strive to be the best knight you can be, everyone else will recognize your dedication and hard work.