[ There is no sign of judgement on Allairavar's face as he listens to Piper. The smooth glide of the knife over the sharpening stone remains steady. The look on his face is thoughtful and he nods when she finishes. ]

I make everyone in the Residence train for one reason: so they learn how to at least defend themselves long enough for myself or one of the other First Circle to get to them if needed.

[ Piper feels a mental brush that isn't invasive in the least. Just Allairavar plucking the Opal strand of power and nodding when she resonates with that Jewel thread. ]

So, my question to you is what do you seek to learn? Do you want to know how to defend yourself when needed, or do you want to know how to wade into the thick of it? We'll find a weapon that suits the how.