Handling the matter of his attendants' accommodations wasn't something Clobber needed to handle personally. A simple instruction to a servant would have sufficed to get the message across.
However, Clobber's trip to the outer castle wasn't just about dealing with such trivialities. It also gave him the opportunity to assign specific tasks to Sam and Will, as well as claim the knightly resources allotted to him—including the warhorses.
Sam and Will's responsibilities would be varied but essential. Among their key tasks was a monthly trip to the Golden Rose family's trade guild, located at the base of the castle, to collect Clobber's training supplies. They were also in charge of procuring various essentials, such as the oils needed for maintaining weapons and armor.
Clobber's old knightly sword, despite being retired from regular use, required regular upkeep. It was a vital backup in case his new blade ever sustained damage or failed in combat.
Beyond logistics, Sam and Will were also expected to manage Clobber's daily needs. Whether it was preparing his meals, ensuring his armor and weapons were in peak condition, or standing by during his rare moments of indulgence with a drink, they were always at his service.
As attendants, their privileges were modest. While they shared in Clobber's meals, other luxuries were not afforded to them.
Foster the Knight, however, stood in a category of his own. Unlike Sam and Will, Foster wasn't merely an attendant; he was a loyal follower who had chosen to accompany Clobber to Saint Gold Castle of his own volition.
Clobber held a deep bond with Foster, who had been a part of his life since childhood. Foster had watched over him, guided him, and protected him as he grew. For Clobber, Foster wasn't just a follower—he was family, a trusted elder, and the one person in this world he could rely on without question.
When it came to Foster's welfare, Clobber never hesitated to open his coin pouch. For someone who had shown such unwavering loyalty and care, Clobber felt it was only right to provide generously in return.
That said, there were limits. The monthly resources allocated to Clobber as a member of the Dragonbreath Order didn't include luxuries like potions for his followers. Potions were a national strategic asset, reserved for high-ranking nobles and the Dragonbreath knights directly under the Duchess's command.
Clobber's own allocation of three potions per month was barely sufficient for his personal training. Sharing even one would slow his progress, so for now, he chose to wait until he had a surplus before considering Foster's needs.
Still, Foster wasn't left wanting. As a follower, he received a generous stipend of ten gold coins per month. For perspective, this was a small fortune by most standards. With it, Foster could purchase whatever items or supplies he needed.
To put things in context, Clobber himself earned thirty gold coins a month—a princely sum made possible only by his dual status as a member of the prestigious Golden Rose family and a knight of the Dragonbreath Order.
Clobber's experience in the Deepwater Territory underscored just how significant such wealth was. Years of mercenary work had earned him barely over a hundred gold coins, and even that was a result of tirelessly taking on job after job.
Stepping out of the inner castle, Clobber was greeted by a bustling scene of daily life. The morning sun hung high in the sky, and the outer courtyard was alive with activity. Servants and attendants buzzed about, some preparing midday meals while others chatted leisurely in small groups.
Near the right side of the castle gate, close to the inner castle doors, Clobber spotted Foster and his two attendants sitting casually. The three of them were chatting, though the conversation seemed to lull every so often.
Foster, however, appeared distracted. He frequently glanced toward the inner castle gates, his expression tense as though worried he might miss Clobber's emergence.
Finally, Clobber stepped out, his figure imposing in the gleaming plate armor. His helmet obscured his face, and the weight of his gear added a distinct heft to his movements. For a moment, Foster failed to recognize him.
Clobber paused, watching the older knight's expression, a smile forming behind his visor. It was time to catch up—and to ensure everything was in place for the road ahead.
As Clobber strode directly toward them, Foster finally recognized the young lord through the heavy, imposing armor.
"Master!" Foster exclaimed, his voice filled with relief and respect as he quickly rose to his feet and offered a deep bow.
Beside him, Sam and Will were momentarily startled, but it didn't take them long to regain their composure. Both had been raised and trained within the Golden Rose family, and the sight of Clobber clad in the Dragonbreath Order's standard-issue plate armor confirmed what they had already suspected— Clobber had successfully joined the Order.
"Master!"
"Master!"
The two attendants also stood quickly, bowing deeply to Clobber with a mix of respect and pride. Unlike Foster, they had never doubted their young lord's ability to secure a place among the knights.
Clobber nodded slightly, acknowledging their greetings.
"As you can see," he began, his voice steady beneath the weight of his armor, "I've successfully joined the Dragonbreath Order. Later, I want you to find the steward of the outer castle and arrange your accommodations. But first, we need to visit the stables to choose suitable mounts. Afterward, we'll handle the housing arrangements."
"Yes, sir!"
The stables were situated at the edge of the outer castle, conveniently along the way to the steward's quarters. With their course set, the group began their short journey.
Before long, they arrived at their destination—the castle stables.
Inside, Jack, the stablemaster, was already waiting. A veteran servant who had worked in Saint Gold Castle for nearly two decades, Jack had heard that a member of the Golden Rose family would be arriving to join the Dragonbreath Order. With his years of experience, he knew this noble's visit would involve selecting a warhorse. Accordingly, he had carefully prepared a selection of the finest steeds from the stables.
"Congratulations on your successful induction into the Order, Sir Knight," Jack greeted warmly, bowing as he introduced himself. "I'm Jack, the stablemaster of Saint Gold Castle. I oversee the care and management of all the horses here."
Clobber, recognizing Jack's professionalism, replied courteously, "A pleasure to meet you, Jack. I am Clobber Golden Rose, a newly inducted knight of the Dragonbreath Order. I've come to select a mount that suits me."
Jack smiled, nodding in understanding. "Of course, Sir Clobber. Choosing the right warhorse is crucial for any knight, and I've prepared a selection of our best. Follow me, and I'll introduce you to them."
With that, Jack led Clobber and his attendants deeper into the stables, stopping in front of a row of magnificent steeds. Each horse was powerful and well-groomed, their strength and agility evident even at rest.
"This here," Jack began, gesturing toward a muscular black stallion, "is a battle-tested warhorse known for its endurance and calm temperament under pressure. Perfect for long campaigns or chaotic battlefields."
He moved to the next horse, a striking white mare with a sleek, athletic build. "This one is swift and nimble, ideal for knights who favor speed and precision in combat."
Finally, Jack introduced a towering chestnut gelding with an imposing presence. "And this horse, sturdy and strong, is a favorite among knights who prioritize carrying capacity and resilience."
Clobber examined each horse carefully, considering their qualities as Jack spoke. A knight's mount was more than a means of transportation—it was a trusted partner in battle, and this decision deserved careful thought.
With a small smile beneath his helmet, Clobber turned back to Jack. "Thank you, Jack. These are fine choices. Let's see which one will be my companion on the battlefield."