The following morning.

[Grayell]

(This will be the morning after the party.)

Grayell had and had't slept through the night. The party wasn't quite the good time he had anticipated and he had many things on his mind... but Liseth had stayed and brought him some respite. So, with a renewed vigor and outlook, he made his way to the council hall bright and early to see about some renovations and kick off a day's training prior to patrol.

Marg and the recruits had been instructed to be here bright and early, let's see who could manage.

[Margrett]

Margrett showed up, looking exhausted. She yawned and then saluted.

Morning sir.

[Tallia]

Tallia showed up alongside Margrett, a bit apprehensive of what today would bring. She gave a polite bow towards Grayell.

"G...good morning... S...Sir... Grayell..."

[Sir Kerag]

Kerag arrived, saluting both the Commander and the Captain, and giving a courtesy nod to Tallia. He rubbed his stomach and gave a light chuckle.

"Well that was a lovely feast last night. Don't think I've eaten so much in years!." He fell into line, awaiting orders.

[Grayell]

Morning Captain, Recruits.

Grayell didn't appear to be much in the mood for niceties today but also didn't seem upset, a good thing if training were about to occur.

We are going to get started. Venom will simply have to watch a while. Kerag, you and Margrett are going to be working as a team today, given you're both veterans and quite capable. You've fought together before.

I will be fighting alongside Talia.

I do not expect anyone to pull their punches, but I do expect you not cripple or kill each other. I will be unarmed. I prefer you all use your weapon of choice.

Grayell removed his blade and and cloak and placed them aside. He turned and managed a smile when he looked at Talia.

When you're ready then.

[Sir Kerag]

Kerag scratched his head, carefully thinking over the Commander's order for today's training regiment. He grumbled, confused.

"Uh Commander, hate to ask but...what are your orders exactly?" He paused, pointing between himself and the Captain. "Do we spare our team member or is this a team versus team exercise?" He was a little embarrassed for asking, but didn't want to assume anything.

[Grayell]

No. You and the Captain will be facing recruit Talia and I. There's more.

Grayell picked up two lengths of rope and handed one to Kerag. He then ties the other about his waist, leaving plenty of length past the knot.

This is an exercise in control, teamwork and trust. This will test your ability to adapt to an adverse environment and still prevail through improvisation and most of all, teamwork.

We're headed to the roof.

Gray went inside and headed for the stairs.

[Margrett]

Margret sighed and followed Gray.

Let's see what kind of weirdness he has.

[Tallia]

Tallia's head turned to follow Grayell's movement. She was a tad confused as to what he had in mind, but decided not to worry and accompany him to the rooftops anyway.

[Grayell]

As they all reached the roof, they could see that the large flat area had been covered in crates. Some were stacked, others were smaller, but it looked something like an obstacle course. He turned to face them all, arms folded.

So. This is where we will be sparring today. You are going to be tied to your partner by the waist. I would advise you don't fall off the edge. Learn to use the environment and coordinate your movements or fail.

There will be no winner here. This is an exercise only.

Grayell walked to Talia and smiled at her warmly.

Stuck with me eh? Think you're ready Talia?

[Tallia]

If she was going to prove herself, now was her chance. She didn't see it fit to forgo giving it her all and accepting failure. She nodded strongly and picked up the rope to tie around her waist.

[Grayell]

Grayell got on one knee and gave her a hand with it.

Not too tight I hope. Now, I hear you're quite nimble am I right?

He had a kind tone that he didn't use with others seems he hadn't pulled the grrr commander face on her yet.

[Tallia]

She looked to Grayell and blushed slightly. She was never really asked about that kind of stuff. Not really one to toot her own horn, she answered hesitantly.

"I... I suppose... so... I... hope I won't slow you down, really..."

[Margrett]

Just wanted to make clear that this is completely ridiculous.

She nodded at Kerag.

We're both heavy for one reason or another. Shouldn't be that hard.

[Grayell]

Grayell ignored Marg's wonderful attitude and remained smiling at Talia. He lowered his voice a little.

Well then. You see, that gives us the advantage. Now I expect I'm not quite the acrobat you are, but I will try and keep up. You meanwhile, feel free to use me as a springboard. We're going to give them something to think about, alright?

Keep on the move. We're lighter you and I, none of that bulky armor to slow us down. If you think you're in a bad spot, just get behind me of holler. I'll keep you covered. You watch my back and I'll do the same, deal?

He gave her a wink. His demeanor was entirely confident, it seemed he was entirely certain she would do well.