"It's nearly time boy, are you ready?"
"Yes, my Lord" the young squire answered to his master and he was ready. Ready to charge out behind his lord, ready to fight and possibly die to protect his liege. If he did well, after many years and if he survived, he might aspire to a knighthood of his own.
It was expected of course. His father had served his lord's father when they were both younger. Had been his squire and then his loyal retainer. managing lands on his lord's behalf and fighting alongside in several campaigns. He'd even been named for his lord.
It had been a scant few years earlier that his father had not come home. Would no longer fill the house with cheer and joy. Their lord had done his duty; had him and his mother bought into his household, had taken young John into his service as first a page and now a squire.
He and his mother had small apartments that they shared. A bed real bed for her near the fire in the back room and a small cot for him in the front room. It was comfortable. It was odd though. His Mother had started to asking him to spend more time in sleeping in the common room. She said it was because he should spend more time with the soldiers, but he spent at least half of every day with them on the practice field. She was too old to remarry, being nearly thirty, so maybe she was spending time alone in spiritual contemplation. Maybe she was considering joining a convent? He would talk to her on his return.
There was no doubt in his mind that he wouldn't return as he cast one final critical eye over his lord's equipment.
"Ready to flesh your weapon John?" asked his liege.
John was confused as he'd never heard this phrase before. The confusion must have shown on his face and his lord explained, "Tested your sword in blood. It's the only true test if a weapon is worthy"
"Yes, my Lord, I'm ready." His reply was swift and eager. Sir John faced front, a seemingly satisfied smile on his lips.
Then with the sounding of the horn they launched forward to confront the foe.
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