"Homework?" Well, there was a new one. Suffice to say his academy wasn't exactly... academic in its leanings. But Ramza nodded after a moment's pause. "...practice of a practical sort. We were often called to assist our order in enacting the will of our Duke." His last five words were underscored by a particularly bitter note beneath his breath.

"I would sooner have simply taught myself as you had. There was no pride or honor to be found in such deeds."

But he seemed to spring back to pleasantry with the handshake, offering a grin of his own. "I'm sure you would find my methods boring by comparison. It's not so different from fighting with a sword and shield; simply deciding which weapon strikes and which stays at the ready."