hmm, Rapier huh? not my preferred blade, but i can see the usefulness and appeal. personally i prefer the Cutlass or a European Longsword.
i have a modicum of experience with both, and am a deft hand with several types of knives and daggers. although when i use the Longsword i typically have a shield of some kind on my other arm. many people talk about Kite shields, but i prefer a round shield or Targe. better balanced and it can be used as an improvised weapon in a pinch. Kite shields... likewise on the weapon aspect, but i find the balance to be...off.
i prefer the Cutlass when i am using just a blade with a free off hand.
anyways, thus far an interesting fic. and as this IS my first time reading it, i can safely say that i eagerly await what comes next. and as i have NOT read the next chapters yet, i can safely say that it should make for an interesting read.