(Untitled)
Ingress pulls the practice knife, pointed upwards, through the air in a slow, careful motion. Her face is set in an expression of deep concentration.
"That does make sense," she says, watching the motion of the knife. "To thrust the knife up under the ribs, instead of through the ribs. I never thought about bones getting in the way ( Read more... )
"That does make sense," she says, watching the motion of the knife. "To thrust the knife up under the ribs, instead of through the ribs. I never thought about bones getting in the way ( Read more... )
"They do, believe me," he says. "Stabbing blindly at someone is inefficient. It only becomes worthwhile once you are sure of yourself."
Reply
She hesitates a moment.
"People have lots of blood inside them."
She's seen.
Reply
"Yes," he says clinically. "Frequently, you will be able to gauge your success from that. If the wound bleeds profusely, you have likely hit an artery, and such wounds are always serious."
Hopefully she will be prepared for that, or fighting with blades is going to be a challenge.
Reply
"Then they die faster. Which is good, because then there's less pain."
Her mother died very quickly, so at least- at least she knows that.
Reply
Ingress has learned the necessity of killing a good deal younger than most - including many young assassins, Havelock thinks ruefully. Her sense of mercy is a good sign. He always watched those other boys that had too great an interest in suffering.
"It also helps to use as sharp a knife as possible. It is easier for you to use, and your opponent's pain is less acute."
Or victim's pain, in Havelock's case. But he doubts assassination will comprise a large part of her duties.
Reply
She sits down on the grass beside Havelock, careful to point the knife away from her. "I'm tired. Do you mind if we stop a little early?"
She's not physically tired, even though the lesson has been going on a for a good length. Her mind, on the other hand, is a little heavy with thoughts.
Reply
"That's fine," he says comfortably, and doesn't mention her lack of physical exertion as she sits down, but leans back on his elbows.
"You're remembering your lessons well," he remarks.
Reply
Then she laughs a soft laugh. "I found a big anatomy book in our library. I'll have to study it, too, won't I?"
To find the best places for incapacitating one's opponent.
Reply
"It will help for you to know a little about treating wounds as well inflicting them, in any case. Are you learning anything like that?"
Reply
Reply
"I'll find you a book that covers the basics. If you or someone you know is hurt, you should know how to treat them until you find help."
Reply
Tom won't always be there, and, though she doesn't know it yet, there will be many times when the only one she has to turn to in harrowing situations is Megwyn. Her companion is gift, but sadly, she has no opposable thumbs.
"Thanks, Havelock."
She sees the door to Milliways open and a familiar figure walk out. Tom is not there to collect her. He's assured her of this. He's simply here to speak with Havelock at the end of her lesson.
"Oh, there's Tom. He said he wanted to talk to you when my lesson was over."
Reply
Some people are naturally nocturnal.
"Oh, good," he says. "I'd like to speak with him too, so that works out nicely."
Reply
Ingress gives him a bright smile before she turns and runs towards Tom and the door. It's ice cream time!
Reply
Once she's inside, he walks on to where Havelock sits.
"My messenger let you know I wished to speak with you, I understand. I must apologize for not finding you sooner. Is this a good time?"
Reply
"She did," he says, sitting back up. "And yes, as good as any."
Reply
Leave a comment