Part 142: Robin C

So if the cavaliers spread out in a fan... And the pegasus knights sweep in from the flank...

Goodness, I can practically see smoke rising from your head. Whatever could have you working at such a fevered tilt?

I'm practicing strategies and scenarios on this game board. After a hundred forced marches, these pieces are still ready for more. It saves me from running everyone ragged with training exercises.

...How very clever. You even carved little enemy forces for them to fight. I'm impressed. And that doesn't happen often…with other people, I mean.

Well, as long as I control friend and foe alike, it's not as effective as I'd prefer. After all, I can't plan for the unexpected when I know all the moves ahead of time.

Then permit me to be your opponent. I shall stroke with the nobility of the lion and defend with the grace of the swan!

Because swans are... good defenders? Er, never mind. I accept.

So then. We'll take turns moving units until one of us claims the other's commander. Agreed?

Agreed and agreed again! Oh, what fun! ...Begin, please. By all means.
(Time passes)

Hold! I need to retract my last move.

Ha ha! Were that all enemy generals so generous! But alas, this is war. ...Checkmate, my good lady.

...Blast! I hate to admit it, but I am well and truly beaten.

Oh ho! I told you I was both a lion and a swan, did I not?

More like a chicken and the far end of a horse! I'm no noble lord, but your strategy wasn't exactly what I'd call honorable.

Heavens! Aren't we plainspoken.

: At any rate, I appreciate the practice, but I must return for a meeting.

But I've barely had time to gloat!

: Ah, well, all part of the simulation. In actual war, you see, the loser is never present to witness gloating.

No, wait! Don't leave, Robin! Let us play again!