And So It Begins Musketeers Pre Season 1

Chapter 8

The next morning the storm had passed, and the November morning was freezing; breath rising from each of the men swirled and swooped like wraiths of the dead. Aramis shivered with more than just the cold as he watched the frigid air move and dance before his eyes. Athos had been seated at their favourite bench when he had arrived at the garrison this morning. Aramis had needed some time away from the garrison after discussing the security of the King's party late into the night. It had been the first time he had spent the night elsewhere since Athos' arrival, but he had been happy to leave him in Porthos' large and capable hands. Despite his gruff demeanour, Aramis had watched how Porthos hovered over the sick man, gently soothing him when his demons threatened to overwhelm him in the silent hours of the night.

He had been observing Athos shout words of encouragement to the Musketeer cadet and had seen him rise to help adjust the young man's stance, so he was not surprised when he took up his sword and began putting the young man through his paces. Aramis made himself comfortable and sat with a cup of wine to watch the spectacle unfold before him. It was the first time he had seen Athos hold a sword since the Rue d' Bucherie, and he was looking forward to it. A circle of men had now gathered around the swordsman as he tutored the young Musketeer. He patiently corrected his stance and his technique with a forbearance and respect Aramis had not anticipated. He hadn't realised just how tolerant the man could be – it appeared he had underestimated him. When the instruction was over the young Musketeer looked a little shell-shocked, though he could not keep the wide grin off his face as Athos praised his efforts. He thanked Athos with a deferential respect before walking away - head held high.

Athos had to admit he had enjoyed showing the young Musketeer the error of his ways; he had been a keen learner and his technique had rapidly improved. As Athos walked back toward the bench where Aramis was seated, the medic could see how the sparring had taken its toll, pain now evident upon his face. He managed to give Aramis a welcoming twitch of his lips, which Aramis had come to recognise as a smile, and he knew Athos would ignore his discomfort completely. The medic was just about to suggest a pain remedy when a voice called out to Athos from the middle of the courtyard. Aramis groaned. 'Not now Devaux.' He could guess what the man wanted and was glad Athos was tired, at least he would not have to comply.

'That was most instructive Monsieur, perhaps you would give me the benefit of your knowledge.' Athos turned to see who was speaking to him. The Musketeer was older than him, mid-thirties maybe.

'It would be my pleasure. Perhaps later.' Athos was about to continue toward Aramis when Devaux continued.

'Of course, the cadet has obviously taxed your strength.' Aramis rolled his eyes.

'Don't let him goad you Athos,' he prayed silently. Somehow, he knew he was wasting his words to God. Athos' reaction was inevitable. The swordsman considered the Musketeer for a moment before swinging his sword in a series of arcs, as if feeling its weight for the first time. Then he smiled - if smiled was the right word; if Aramis had been an enemy, he would have found that smile the most terrifying sight he had ever seen. Athos walked back to the centre of the courtyard and lifted his sword, signalling that he was ready. Without further preamble he simply said, 'Then let us begin.' They danced around each other for a moment before Devaux made the first attack. He lunged at Athos, who simply side-stepped the move and waited for the man to react.

'You are over extending,' Athos said. No hint of judgement, simply pointing out the man's error. And so it went on. Devaux became more animated, swinging his sword in an ever-more aggressive and uncontrolled manner. Aramis could see beads of perspiration begin to appear on the swordsman's face. He was not yet ready for such strident exercise. Athos was obviously aware of his current limitations, for suddenly the man came to life. If anyone had thought he was impressive before that moment, the swordsmanship he exhibited now left the cadets open-mouthed.