Black Bartosch

Bartosch, arms crossed, leaned his back against the wooden fence that surrounded the local arena. Trosky Castle has seen more or less calm days since Pan Otto returned. The knight waited until someone wanted to train or for an order from Bergow, occupying himself with thoughts about the events of the last few days.

-Why do they call you Black Bartosch?
-It’s just a nickname, of course, because of my black hair. Every swordsman has a nickname, you know.
Once you win a few tournaments, they give you one.
-So you’re really a high-born knight?
-Indeed. I’m Bartoschek of Drahonitz. My father served Emperor Charles his entire life.
-Oh, sorry. I suppose I should call you “Sir”…
-No, there’s no need for formalities. Titles are worthless.
A man should earn a name for himself. It’s not enough to be born with a silver spoon in your mouth.

-You must’ve been honoured when the Royal Chamberlain chose you as his bodyguard. How did you meet?
-That’s simple. I was serving in the garrison in Prague’s royal castle, where von Bergow was a frequent guest.
-I see. But what brought you to his attention? You have good connections, I suppose?
-Depends what you mean. I’d recently won two big tournaments, so I was invited to a splendid banquet.
It was where Sir Otto offered me a position at his castle.
I’d heard of Trosky, of course, but I was still astonished when I saw it with my own eyes.
Sir Otto spared no expense to build a truly mighty fortress.

-Sorry, but we’re about the same age, and I’d never have guessed you’re a swordmaster.
-We each have our own path, it seems. I even studied at university, while I could still afford it.
-What? You’re a man of letters as well?
-Ha! I wouldn’t go that far. I dabble in poetry a bit, that’s all.
I may come from a noble family, but we’re not renowned or rich, and studying costs a fortune.
And I didn’t have one, so I had to do what I do best.
-You became a mercenary?
-That’s right. I spent more time fighting than studying at university and came out of it alive, so I reckoned that’s where my talent lies.