From my father, really.
He tried to teach me how to shoot, but I sucked at it. I picked up a bow and found that I had some talent with that. He showed me the antique swords that he had, and I read tales of knights and samurai. I was impressed with the concept of a code of honor and how it made a person stronger for it.
I always wanted to be a knight as a young kid. The sword was his tool, and Musashi's duels seemed to be the essence of competition. As I became older I was more impressed with the craftsmanship inherent in archaic weaponry. Of course, having a father who was a premier bladesmith probably influenced me.
I appreciate the effort that is required to manufacture the weapon and the effort in training to use that weapon effectively.
The Baron Opal