Secrets and Strides

Jason and Jeffrey move in synchronized patterns, their wooden swords clashing with each strike. The training yard echoes with the sounds of their practice. Both are focused, their movements precise and deliberate.

Jason: "You're getting better, Jeffrey. I can barely keep up!"

Jeffrey: *laughs* "You're just being nice. I'm still working on my form."

Jason: *pauses for a moment* "Have you heard anything about the royal ball? I'm curious if there's anything special planned."

Jeffrey: *nods* "Yeah, I've heard a few things. Some say there might be an announcement or surprise."

Jason: *raises an eyebrow* "A surprise? What kind of surprise?"

Jeffrey: *shrugs* "No idea. Just rumors. But with all the preparations and the guard's comments, something seems a bit off."

Jason: *frowns slightly* "Hmm, that's interesting. I'll keep an ear out for more details."

Jeffery: "By the way, about that dare..."

Jason: "Jasmine won't let me get close enough. She's too protective."

Jeffrey: "Well maybe you'll have a chance to try again at the ball."

Jason: *shrugs* "Maybe."

Jeffrey: *grins mischievously* "Well if you don't want to do it, you can just avoid the dare."

Jason: *laughs* "Yeah, I'll keep that in mind. But if Jasmine's as protective as she usually is, I might just end up cleaning the stables."

Jeffrey: *chuckles* "You might want to find a way to sneak past her then."

Jason: *smirks* "I'll think about it. For now, let's focus on not getting too rusty."

As they spar, the guards' whispers about the ball and the guard's comments become more apparent. It's clear that everyone is on edge, and Jason's curiosity about the "surprise" grows. The ball is shaping up to be more than just a celebration; there's a sense of anticipation and secrecy that hangs in the air.

Meanwhile....

Grace: "But seriously, can I have a different pair of shoes to go with my dress? Laura gave me high heels with it. I don't do well in high heels."

Jasmine: "Yes, and I'm looking in my closet."

Jasmine rummages through her closet, pulling out a few pairs of shoes and inspecting each one with a critical eye.

Jasmine: "These should work. They're more comfortable and still elegant."

She sets the shoes down in front of Grace, who eagerly examines them. Grace picks up the shoes and tries them on, a relieved smile spreading across her face.

Grace: "These are much better! Thanks, Jasmine."

Jasmine: "You're welcome. Comfort is important, especially when you'll be on your feet for a long time."

Grace: *walks around in the shoes* "They fit perfectly!"

Jasmine: "Perfect. Now, let us start back on manners and acting proper."

Grace: "Ugh. I hate those lessons!"

Jasmine: "Well, you need to master them if you want to make a good impression at the ball."

Grace: *grumbles* "I know. It's just... a lot to remember."

Jasmine: *sighs* "I understand, but it's important. If you want to fit in and feel confident, you need to practice."

Grace: *sighs* "Okay, okay. Let's get it over with."

Jasmine: "Great. Let's start with proper posture and how to hold yourself while walking."

As Jasmine continues to guide Grace through the lessons, she is determined to help Grace succeed and make a positive impression at the royal ball.

A few minutes later...

Jasmine: "Shouldn't you and Jeffrey be doing something?"

Jason: "We got bored."

Jasmine: "That doesn't mean you two should stop training."

Jeffrey: *leans against the wall* "Come on, Jaz, we've been at it for hours and—"

Jasmine: "And you should be making the most of your time. Discipline is important, even during breaks."

Jason: *sighs* "Alright, alright. We'll get back to it."

Jeffrey: *grumbles* "Fine. Just don't expect us to be enthusiastic about it."

Jasmine: *smiles* "Good. Remember, training is about perseverance. Now, get back to it."

Jason and Jeffrey return to their training. Jasmine turns back to Grace, ready to continue with the manners lesson.

Jason: *walks back into the dining hall* "By the way,"

Jasmine: "If this is about Flint and Linda, I don't want to hear it."

Jason: "I wasn't going to say anything about them. I'm just saying I'm quite surprised Grace eats cake with a hand."

Grace: *glares at Jason* "You shouldn't be one to talk." *throws a piece of cake at Jason*

Jasmine: *snickers*

Jason: "Yeah, yeah. Very funny."

Although Jason couldn't help but smile himself.

Jasmine: "You deserved it."

Jason: "Oh? I deserved it?"

Jasmine: "You're more annoying than Garry acting like a child. Yes. You deserved it. Now shoo. Off with you."

Jason:  "Okay. Okay. I love you too."

Jasmine watches as Jason leaves the dining hall. She then looks back to Grace.

Grace: "I know. I know. It's not proper behavior. And the only reason I know is because there would be food fights at the orphanage and and Ms. Ruby called it bad behavior."

Jasmine: *nods* "As much as I hate her, she is indeed correct. Especially when it comes to royal events."

Grace: *sighs* "I know. I just don't want to embarrass myself."

Jasmine: "You won't."

Grace: "Are you sure?"

Jasmine: "Of course. Now, let's continue to focus on practicing those manners. We have a few more things to cover before the ball."

Grace: "Alright. I'll try my best."

Jasmine: "I know you will."

Grace: *smiles*