Worth

She struck forth with the wood of her practise naginata.

"YAH!"

They had the entire rear courtyard to themselves, with the men gone. Some of the other female guardswomen came to train at times, but it seemed they preferred to spend some time with their family rather than improve their skill as a warrior.

Her strike was easily blocked, as Rin shot forth with a strike of her own, controlling the unwieldy naginata with skill and precision.

The speed at which she reacted was too much for her opponent, and she struck the leather of the padded training armour, securing herself a point.

"You're getting really good, Rin."

Akiko praised, covered in sweat, as she took off her helmet.

"Mm. I'm doing okay, but it's not enough, is it?"

"No, you're right. But that's not your fault."