Preparation:Training

Chapter: The Meaning and A Name (rough draft v1)

Jacob sat in an elegantly decorated chamber, surrounded by tutors and trainers from different walks of Eldralorian life.

Today's schedule was packed: etiquette and cultural immersion would intertwine with physical training in the arts of the Viryana, combat would not be until later, but they would not, could not, allow him to carry himself as anything but the warrior princess he vowed to become.

What started as a few lessons out of a mix of pity and respect from the Viryana, on how he could retain his warrior pride even as he submitted to becoming Erik's bride, now had to become a core part of his future, if they were to present the image of strength they needed. Jacob knew that while he had a much on his plate Erik and the King would be just as busy preparing.

"Names hold great power in Eldralore," began Magistra Elira, an expert in Eldralorian lore and tradition. "They are often a reflection of significant milestones in life or as a vow for a future goal."

As she spoke, Jacob focused on maintaining his posture and form, an exercise that Seraphelle, his Viryana instructor, corrected from time to time.

"Erik, for instance," Magistra Elira continued, "changed his name after mastering his martial studies. 'He who prevails,' it signifies in our homeland."

"Given the tumultuous times and your newfound roles, it may be apt for you to choose a name that resonates with what the present age demands of you and your vow you answered it with," Seraphelle added, pausing her instruction on a Viryana stances and mindset used for remaining battle ready even while engaging in important conversation with diplomats and Nobels.

Jacob pondered deeply, searching for a name that would encapsulate not just who he was, but who he needed to become. A union of both worlds, a name that echoed both his roots and his future.

"Sariah," he finally whispered, almost as if testing how it felt on his lips. "Or Sarah in the common tounge of Terranova."

Both tutors looked at him expectantly.

"As you likely know, It means 'The sun's gift to the moon' or 'Strong fortress against the storm' in Eldralore. In my homeland, it would translate to 'Princess' or 'Joyful Noblewoman'," he explained.

Magistra Elira's eyes lit up, "A beautiful choice. It captures the soul of your role: a symbol of unity and a pillar of strength."

Seraphelle nodded, clearly pleased. "Well chosen. Your name is your vow, and it sounds like you're ready to stand behind the Covenant you have made with yourself, this land, it's people, and the world soul."

Jacob—now Sariah—felt a newfound sense of purpose crystallize within him. This wasn't just a cultural formality; it was a promise, a commitment to be a beacon of unity and a bulwark of strength for two lands on the brink of chaos. He originally agreed to this Alliance, and sacrifice, to save his land. Now he had grown to care for this land in the short time he was here.

As the lesson drew to a close, Sariah practiced a particularly complex Viryana maneuver, designed to allow the user to disarm and restrain someone with a hidden push dagger while still maintaining the illusion of Civility and decorum in a group of Nobles while you quietly lead the away for interrogation, feeling the weight and the determination of his Vow thrum through his veins.

Sarah or Sarah, the sun's gift to the moon, the joyful noblewoman, the strong fortress against the storm—ready to face whatever lay ahead.