Hearing the clash of swords, Jean, stands just inside the door of the fencing gallery. He watches with a critical eye a couple going through their fencing bout, occasionally glancing up curiously at the walls adorned with endless arms, shields, swords, maces, halberds and other weapons. Looking back his trained eye can see both fencers extend their lunge much too far.
Sir Howard Blair has just finished his practice. He is deliberately keeping Jean waiting by taking his time wiping himself down with the towel given to him by a servant holding a bowl of water. His face is red from his exertions, sweat glistening in his copper coloured hair. He continues talking to his fencing instructor, knowing he is building up the tension in Jean. Finally, the instructor moves away and Howard wipes his face dry, then beckons to Jean.
‘Let me be clear. I have told my wife. I will not involve myself in children’s arguments. The court has given its verdict, there is nothing more to say on the matter. Good day.’ He waves his hand in a dismissive manner and attempts to walk away.
Jean quickly pulls him back by his arm. ‘You’ll not hear what I have to say?’
Howard pulls his arm back savagely. ‘No! And do not touch a man of higher status.’
His mood becomes heated as Jean replies through clenched teeth. ‘A man of high status does not lie or cheat, nor act in a cowardly way.’
The pair fencing stop to stand and watch the argument unfold.
‘Keep your place,’ Howard warns.
‘You think you can hide behind privilege. You’re still a coward!’
Howard points a threatening finger at Jean. ‘Be careful what you say. I beat you before, I can do it again.’
Jean returns Howard’s stare, his eyes glittering with anger. ‘You came close to beating me only by cheating. You couldn’t do it any other way. You would have to drug me first as you did before.’
Howard hesitates a moment, staring at Jean. ‘You make false claims!’
‘Do I? I don’t consider my source in lying.’
‘Who?’ He falls silent, realising he will reveal his own wife as Jean’s source. He recovers, ‘Are you questioning my honour?’
‘Most assuredly,’ Jean tells him insolently.
‘I will put you in your place,’ Howard snaps wickedly.
Jean gives him a faint smile. ‘Is that a challenge?’