Chapter 5 – Training

"Know your enemy."

'11th January 1771,

I have only been eleven days at sea however it feels much longer, like the days just merge together. Along with my usual work under Frankie's gazing eye, I have also been put to work learning basic swordplay, improving my aim with a musket, navigating the ship and even learning other languages. I still get sick from time to time, but as we sail southwest into Spain, my stomach hardens and my confidence rises. All of my achievements so far are no doubt thanks to Frankie, he is the only person on board who looks out for me, at least there is one…'

The morning sun stretched slowly over the horizon, painting the sea and the calm sweet sky with a lively burst of orange and burning yellow. Nelson could not help but take time from his duties on deck to appreciate such a magical sight, one that he would stare at for hours on end if only he could pause time.

'It never gets old,' said Frankie standing beside him. 'To watch the sun rise over the ocean. It's just about the only beautiful thing we have left out here.'

Nelson couldn't help but smile and then return to tying the smaller sails down. As he did so, Frankie placed a hand on his shoulder and stopped him, 'You will not be working today.' Frankie smiled and then turned and picked up two swords, both were basic sabres but one stood out compared to the other. The blade that Frankie possessed was very well designed. The handle was light, made from silver and hardened strong black leather that allowed for a swift and controlled stroke. The polished-silver weapon was well balanced in its master's hand and served well in conflict. Nelson also noticed a set of initials etched into the base of the blade: J.W.

'This sword belonged to my father before he passed it down to me, he loved this blade as I now do, more than anyone could ever imagine. Such a weapon as this has claimed many lives and saved many others, especially mine.'

Nelson easily understood the mans affections for the weapon, for he himself was drawn to it's power as if he were under some kind of spell.

Before Nelson caved into his sudden desire to snatch the majestic weapon before him, Frankie extended his arm with another sword in his grip. 'This will be your sword.' He said, almost as if he were giving a command, which he was.

This sword was not so beautiful, the handle was heavier and the base of the blade was slightly rusted. Nelson took the sword by the handle and swung it through the air, striking an imaginary opponent.

'Come, you have learned much over these past few days, lets see if I can't teach you something more.' Frankie ordered Nelson into position. They now stood ready to spar on the bow. Nelson inhaled softly and then made the first strike that was easily deflected by his opponent. Frankie had a wide and firm stance, with one arm stretched out to his side in order to maintain his balance. Not long after the match began it was ended, Frankie only sought to delay his younger opponents defeat. With much practised hands, Frankie pulled Nelson forward and spun around to strike his unbalance opponent in the back of the neck with the hilt of his sabre.

'Have you learned nothing?' Frankie teased, 'I could have killed you three times so far. Remember to watch your opponent, think before you strike, look before you leap.'

All that Nelson cared about now was the painful lesson that throbbed at the back of his neck.

'Are you listening to me, Horatio? Find your balance and maintain your footing. Then, before you rush to your death, take a moment to observe whom you are fighting, once you know their strengths and weaknesses then you will be ready to fight. Again!'

Again Nelson was the first to strike, but he did not rush forward like last time. He countered a powerful blow from Frankie and was able to hold his ground.

'Good,' Frankie complimented, 'You are able to maintain your balance, but can you hold it?'

Nelson swung his sword arm around, not noticing that he had exposed the left side of his chest. Frankie used the hand guard of his hilt and punched Nelson hard in the centre of the chest, knocking the wind from his lungs.

'Never lower your guard, even upon attack. You must always protect yourself, the torso is vital.'

After the final blow Nelson needed time to regain his strength and his breath. Frankie sat down beside him and offered some water, which was accepted without hesitation. As the noon bell rang, the midday sun beat heavily down on the crew, it was certainly taking its toll on Nelson as his seasickness returned.

'Do not think poorly of yourself.' Said Frankie comfortingly. 'You learn with haste, something not common among seaman, even those properly trained. In time and with my training you will become a great swordsman. The Great Horatio Nelson, hero of the British Navy.'

Horatio very much liked the sound of that title.