"And that is a point to you young master!" shouted the fencing instructor.

"Oh, and please be a little more gentle with your thrusts. Any harder and you'd have to find yourself a new fencing instructor ho ho ho." he remarked.

Charles grinned with genuine satisfaction. There were few things he liked more than having his efforts acknowledged.

It had been quite a day for Charles. First the secret deal with Chet, then the hissy fit between those three bozos, then finally, that run-in with that annoying yet spunky little creature. Such a string of events have made the day a particularly interesting one for him. And such an interesting day proved rather invigorating. So much so that even Charles' sport coaches have noticed. 

The last bout of fencing commenced without a hitch. A short yet intense match most definitely. Charles duelled as vigorously as ever. He darted back and forth. Thrusted quickly and repeatedly. Overall he employed a passionate and aggressive offence. Though his instructor wouldn't have any of it. One fateful parry followed by a quick and precise riposte had Charles knocked down onto his backside.

"Game set and match!" declared the instructor.

Charles ripped off his fencing mask. He looked visibly annoyed.

[color=gold]"I almost had you old man!"[/color] Charles yelled.

"That certainly isn't up for debate young master." said the instructor.

"But I was merely trying to stay alive. Your strikes are frightfully intimidating, if I do say so myself." he commented.

[color=gold]"Hmph"[/color] said Charles.

The fencing instructor extended his hand and pulled Charles back onto his feet. 

"You can have all the talent in the world young master, and you do by the way, but it would only take you so far without patience. One must train oneself keep oneself calm , especially under times of duress." lectured the instructor.

Charles' indignation started to build inside of him. He took a deep breath to calm himself. The instructor was right after all. Even Charles had to admit that.

[color=gold]"Yeah, I know."[/color] replied Charles.

"That concludes our lesson for today. Why your father will marvel at the progress you've made." the instructor gushed.

[color=gold]"You're dismissed. Same time again tomorrow."[/color] said Charles.

"You can be sure of that young master." replied the fencing instructor.

Charles strode over towards the fencing sword rack that stood against one of the walls. He hung his favourite epee gingerly. Fencing was his favourite sport, by far.

Slowly now, Charles thought to himself. Patience is key, especially for the scheme he had cooking away in the back of his mind. As far as his enemies were concerned, they had no idea what they were in for.

Charles strode out of the epee room with a swagger in his walk. He felt very self-satisfied. For the first time in a long time, he was excited.