Tessa

The scratch on the back of my pin is from all the rubbing. I know they won't replace it once it wears through, but my hand keeps going there anyway.

• The Swordsmanship InstructorWhat's worn down is worth something.
  TessaInstructor, that's genuinely a cool line but if you say it in the training yard nobody hears it, everyone's too busy gasping for air
  The Swordsmanship InstructorIt wasn't meant to be heard.
• Lady LiliaHow cute. Ours have the family crest on the back, so there's nothing to scratch off.
  TessaRight, must be heavy then.

Made it through another day with a smile on. Smiling's the cheapest shield there is.

• Lady LiliaCheap things don't last long.
  TessaThat's why I buy a new one every day.
  Lady Lilia...I actually kind of like that.
• The Swordsmanship InstructorA shield is only a shield in the hands that hold it. Well held.
  TessaInstructor, was that a compliment? Right? Right?
  The Swordsmanship InstructorI don't say things twice.