Reigna arrives on Kael's arm, entering just before the time to start. She is a little more solemn than her usual, though there is a gentle smile on her face as she murmurs something to her husband. When she sees Queenia, there is a warm smile sent to the Igniseri Marquessa and a dip of her head before Reigna moves to find a seat.

Reigna has joined the Noble Seating.

"Me, of course." Fairen replies towards Isabetta the solemn expression on his face fading for the Gilden Lady. "Because you are my good friend." He says, then glances over at Elloise as she arrives, inclining his head at his younger cousin. "Lady Elloise, always good to see you."

Alis arrives just before the duel, trying not to take too long to find a seat and settle in. Reigna, when the young princess spots her, is given a warm smile and a nod of greeting of course; and then to Kael as well.

Snow has joined the Commoner Stands.

Bashira is here a bit early because her brother is actually dueling! She gives a look over the crowd and then makes her way over to the commoner seating before seeing if she can spot her brother. There's a smile given to Corban as she joins the seats and a soft comment as she settles down.

3 Thrax Guards, Stumphrey, a toast-colored corgi with big ears and a floofy butt, Humphrey, a humorless brute with a ribbon in his hair, Carys, a slight woman with ink-stained fingers, Cuddle Puddle, the loviest-doviest feline arrive, following Caith.

Caith arrives, following Jeffeth.

Quenia has joined the Noble Seating.

Indeed, there might be that little smile on Reigna's face, but Kael, he is trying for another if that little murmur to her was any indication. Just a few words offered in her ear, a draw back to peer at her reaction before he offers a coaxing little smile of his own. Not that he's exceptionally pleased looking, it is simply a matter of his not being grim. "Your highness," greets Kael as he helps Reigna take a seat. This is of course to the Valardin Princess, and yes, she is the recipient of a smile as well.

3 Thrax Guards, Stumphrey, a toast-colored corgi with big ears and a floofy butt, Humphrey, a humorless brute with a ribbon in his hair, Carys, a slight woman with ink-stained fingers, Cuddle Puddle, the loviest-doviest feline leave, following Caith.

Caith leaves, following Jeffeth.

Kael has joined the Noble Seating.

"Thank you, cos-- er, wait it's a formal setting, sorry --Marquis Fairen," Elloise greets her cousin all in one breath. She offers a sunny smile, a flicker of her fingers, and she continues to work on her project. Poke, poke with the small tool that she has in hand.

Snow makes his way onto the grounds and quietly moves his way up the rows to get a seat at the top of the stands to watch the duel, he glances about himself, then, shifts his feet.

Corban makes his way into the Proving Grounds, curious more than anything else. He almost makes his way over towards the noble seating, before he catches himself and diverts over to the commoners. He dips his head to Bashira as he settles down himself.

After a bit, Quenia finally decides to join the noble seating. She nods to those present, and carefully arranges her winter skirts about herself, folding her hands in her lap for added warmth. Really must remember to bring those gloves next time!


As the crowd begins to gather for the latest duel, a slender figure dressed in tailored black and indigo leathers lined with fur moves easily amongst the crowd. Terese's dark hair has been mostly swept up and pinned through dark tendrils escape to fall into the back of her hood. The clip of her booted heel is lost beneath the din as she draws into the seating where she settles herself in the midst of it all. Spying Reese, a smile is flashed in ribbons direction before Alis catches her attention. "From one fight to another," she muses before settling in and greetings others.

2 Novice Keaton Huntsmen, The Second arrive, following Margerie.

Margerie has joined the Noble Seating.

Amari arrives with Veronica, a few paces behind Reigna and Kael. She's quiet, at least by the time they're both walking onto the proving grounds, whatever they were conversing about before that illiciting an arched brow. No further reply from the Keaton lawyer, however, before she turns and heads for the noble seating to find a good spot with her cousin.

Amari has joined the Noble Seating.

Lisebet comes along, making her way quietly. She glances around, perhaps looking for someone or maybe just seeing who is where. She pauses briefly, as if deciding if she should stay, and then makes her way to the seating area.

Reese is sitting close to Isabetta at the noble seating. "I don't know who to route for. Cause the Marquis and the Countess are both my friends." She says. "I guess I will say I was cheering for whoever wins. That could work."

Lisebet has joined the Noble Seating.

Cristoph has joined the Noble Seating.

3 Thrax Guards, Stumphrey, a toast-colored corgi with big ears and a floofy butt, Humphrey, a humorless brute with a ribbon in his hair, Carys, a slight woman with ink-stained fingers, Cuddle Puddle, the loviest-doviest feline arrive, following Caith.

Caith arrives, following Jeffeth.

Isabetta tells Reese, "Reese you are far too diplomatic. I will be rooting for Fairen because I'm not certain whom the countess is. " She watches the list thoughtfully, "I think there should be refreshments at these."

Caith has joined the Noble Seating.

Veronica has joined the Noble Seating.

Reigna and Kael arrives and the solemn expression returns quickly, Fairen inclining his head at the both politely. "Countess Reigna. Count Kael." He greets with a flat, dull tone. "I hope that regardless of the results of this duel that we can finally lay our dispute behind us and move forward, as is tradition." He offers, then looks over to his cousin, giving her another soft smile. Then he looks over at Iabetta and Reese. "I thought about bringing Leaholdt Dreamwine, but I did not think of it in time to properly forewarn the Countess."

Reigna has rolled a critical success!
Reigna checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 20, rolling 90 higher.

Caspian is sitting in the dueling circle, a lute on his lap, legs folded as he adjusts the strings. Strumming the strings testingly, he looks over the crowd, studying those who showed up. He gives a wave over to Reigna, smiling her way.

Margerie comes in at around the same time as her nieces, cousin, and nephew. It doesn't take her long to make her way to a seat with the Keatons, though. There's a glance towards Reese and Isabetta when she hears the comments. A subtle smile finds her lips and she suggests, "Shall I try to tempt you to support our dear Countess Keaton then, Princess Reese, to better balance your friend's rooting interests? And then, well, whatever Reigna is about to be composed and polite about? Her auntie is going to look VERY impressed by her efforts.

"Sometimes I am." Reese says to Isabetta. "But I don't know if there is such a thing as too diplomatic really. She then peeks over to Fairen. "Well, said Marquis and i could use some wine, I think." She smiles over to Terese, giving her a wave. Reese looks over to Margerie. "Alright you convinced me. Mostly because I always root against Lady Isabetta and I always best her. I will have to think of something else she owes me when I win."

2 Grayson House Guards, Alejandra, a snowy white hound, Planchet, an unrelenting valet, 2 Iron Guardsmen arrive, following Ainsley.

Veronica travels along with Amari, though she trails behind a few steps as the latter moves towards the noble seats... just long enough to gaze around those gathered, perhaps looking for familiar faces, perhaps noting those she is not familiar with. Ultimately though she follows, catching up to Amari and sitting down next to her cousin.

Isabetta nods in agreement, "Yes, let us put a wager to this Princess Reese, of course I would gladly accept your tower when the Marquis' champion wins." Isabetta tells Reese and folds her hands neatly over her knee. She sticks her nose up like she's soo sure she'll win this.

Tra-la-la! In wanders Caith, a very floofy kitten in her arms. "Who is the cutest, cuddliest, fluffy-wuffiest kitty? You are! Oh yes, you are!" she is cooing at the wee creature, holding it up against her face and rubbing it against her cheek. Cuddle Puddle (that's the kitten) just mews happily because it is the loviest, doviest baby cat ever. EVER! Stumphrey, her forgotten corgi, waddles along in her wake. He is completely untroubled that he is now a second-rate pet and just gobbles up any little tidbit he finds along the way. Slorp.

Reigna waves to Alis with a smile, a smile that fades to a pure neutral, an impenetrable mask of absolute politeness and nothing more as her attention turns to Fairen. She gives him a tilts of her head at the precise angle that is appropriate for her to acknowledge his words, her smile just as perfectly polite. "Marquis Fairen. As is tradition, this duel will resolve the issue at hand." When her attention turns to Caspian there is a warmth present that was not there mere moments ago, "Good luck Master Wild!" She leans in as Kael murmurs in her ear and there is an excitement there, "Yes, please!"

Jeffeth comes trudging into the proving grounds, looking like just maybe he may have been getting dressed on the way. The huge man is tugging down a jerkin over his chest, before hopping a few steps to get his boot on to fit correctly. Hop. Hop. Hop. His foot lands and he stumbles forward a huge steps, a large hammer strapped to his back and a longsword at his hip.

As Jeffeth gains his footing he quickly stands up, swallowing hard. Looking just a tad bit sheepish he goes to quickly bow to Fairen, and then Reigna. "My Lord. My Lady. Apologies." The knight murmurs as he straightens up before walking towards the dueling circle. "Sorry, Caspian." Jeffeth states, giving a warm smile. The sword is undone at his waist and tossed to the side. The hammer on his back is drawn in both hands. "May we bring honor to Gloria. Whenever you're ready, of course."

Reese checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 5 lower.

Ainsley plods his way along to find to find Reigna and Kael, moving to sit near them if allowed (and there's space).

Ainsley has joined the Noble Seating.

Bashira gives a wave to her brother who is sitting out in the dueling circle, "Good luck dearest brother!" she calls to him with a bright smile. Then she settles back into her seat to speak with the others in the stands. Giving an apologetic look to Corban for one.

Jeffeth wields The Butterfly Effect, a giant high quality steel war hammer.

Caspian checked charm + performance at difficulty 30, rolling 9 higher.

Reese seems all confident until Isabetta speaks of her tower. Then the pink drains from her cheeks, leaving her looking rather pale and revealing that Reese was never all that certain she would win. "Isabetta..." She says. "I can't gamble my tower, you know that."

With his cousin's arrival on their heels, Kael is offering a chin up toward them an a flash of a smile. Yes, there's a flicker of gratitude as he spies them, nudging his wife on the shoulder and pointing them out. Marquessa Quenia, too, is offered an inclination of the head and another smile. A few others are nodded to, greeted, including his Aunt. When Ainsley comes along, Kael is actually moving to scoot down, and pull his wife a bit further in the bench so that her patron can sit on her opposite side. Thereafter, he inclines his head in a solemn manner to Fairen. "Marquis Leary," he greets, smoothly, before turning back to the Champions. Both are nodded to.

"There once was a man with a lute
He faced up against a big brute
Who was quite histute
And they will fight
To settle a dispute
So make sure to root
To hollar and hoot
Unless you're a mute
In which case, I feel pretty bad for you. Life gave you a pretty fucking bad hand."

The rhyme falls off as Caspian ends the song, giving the crowd a wide grin as he rises up from his seat and sets the lute aside, and bows deeply to the crowd.


Foregoing the normal seating that the rest of the nobles bee line to, Jamie Greenmarch, dressed in his usual leather and fur, leans absently against the jousting fence line, trading comfortable seating for a better view. Hard to miss, the broad-shouldered man seems comfortable with his proximity to the where the duel is going to take place. As the procession of Keatons enters the area and find their seats, his green eyes follow them, taking note of Reigna first, and following it up with a studious examination of each of the people with her as they take their seats in the stands. For the moment, he remains where he is, apparently choosing not to join the rest of the nobles.

Isabetta looks sidelong at Reese, "Then how about if I win you have to wear a suit of blue armor for an entire fortnight?" Her brows lift, like she's sure she got Reese with the sneaky negotiation. "Come on, blue armor, it would be a very sweet thing to wear and maybe even the countess champion is thinking mm, blue armor on Princess Reese? I will throw the duel!" She leans over to fix predatory eyes on the poor princess, "So what do you say?"

Snow looks over to Caspian before he cocks his head then says rather blandly, "The last line is awkward, and what is fucking a hand?" This spoken rather unhelpfully, before he looks awkwardly around. Obviously his Arvani is terrible.

Fairen nods quite simply at Reigna, listening to her comment. And then Caith arrives and his expression lightens once again, casting his glance towards her and giving her a happy incline of his head. "Princess Caith. How are you?" He asks, his tone lighening along with his expression. As Jeffeth arrives, he smiles and casts a glance towards him, waving a hand at him dismissively. "Do not fret, Sir Jeffeth. You are just in time." Finally, he looks out to the crowd. "I do not suppose there is anyone who might be interested in leading us in a Prayer to Gloria?"

Cristoph slips into the seating area for the nobles, quickly and quietly. There's a nod of greeting for a few people as he passes them and finds a place to sit, folding his hands over into his lap.

Reigna waves to Jeffeth as he arrives, her smile for the Knight of Solace sweet as well, though Caspian's performance earns him a bright and cheerful laugh at Caspian's ditty, clapping for his performance. Her eyes find Lord Jaime and he is give a bright smile, Sir Corban as well, though to be fair, her attention is drawn back to the ring and stays there. The observant might note that her hand is gripping Kael's especially tightly. She does look back to Terese as she is greeted, flashing the former Princess a bright smile and a wave, and spying Cristoph, he gets one as well.

Caspian gets A steel barbute with rounded spikes along the dome from a simple blackened leather backpack.

Reese has a gentle smile for Jamie, although she doesn't seem to know him. She then waves to the Countess. "Yay! Countess Regina may the duel prove her right!" She says, but gives Fairen and apologetic and even affectionate smile. She looks over to Ainsley, having a wave for him. Finally Reese turns back to Isabetta. "Blue armor...." She says and makes a face. "I would have to find some to borrow or I guess I could have a cheap seat made. But blue.." She adds. "Well if I win you have to be completely proper and sweet and no jokes or tricks for twenty four hours. Use all the right titles and be the sweetest and most polite lady possible."

Hefting the hammer in both hands, Jeffeth takes a deep breath. Still looking a little panicked from trying to get here on time. He closes his eyes for a moment and stares down at his hammer, shoulders rising and falling as he takes a few, slow breaths. Breathe in, breathe out. His eyes pop open.

"Usually I do some sort of trick before a fight." Jeffeth bellows out to the crowd once Caspian's song is over. "But I don't really have any tricks for this." The hammer that is nearly as tall is he is, slaps into the ground with one meaty mitt. "However, I would like to take a moment, to say I champion Marquis Fairen's cause. But I also fight..." He falls silent, looking over his hammer for just a moment. "Sameera Coldrain gave me this, she said if I ever beat someone with it, I could keep it. She passed back to the wheel, but willed it to me. I hope today I can fulfill our arrangement." Glancing over to Fairen, Jeffeth nods. "I can pray, if none come forward." The Godsworn knight then turns to face Caspian more fully.

Caspian gives a shrug to Snow, admitting, "I did that on the fly. I just throught it up. It's a work in progress," he says with a wide grin given her way. He looks over to Jeffeth, giving him a nod, "I think you'd be perfect for the job to lead the prayer, unless someone else really wants the honor."

Isabetta responds all too quickly to Reese, "Done." She look ssmug, "I am a voice after all, you know I am capable of being proper and stuffy."

Quenia glances over at Cullen as he names her out. She inclines her head in his direction. "Good evening, Lord Cullen. Nice to see you as well." Her words are simple and polite, and backed with a faint smile. Though there's also a noted distance there, perhaps belying Quenia's emotion of the day since the execution. It's a different stage of grief each day, those close to her would say. When he turns to another to speak, she turns her attention back to the duel at hand, quietly watching it.

Reese has a wave for Quenia, when she notices the Marquesa and her smile reaches her eyes. She then calls out. "Caspian, you have to win or I will be in blue!"

Snow nods once towards Caspian calling, "Oh, it is very impressive then, Goodman..." He shrugs a shoulder beneath his wolf fur mantel then looks to the ring with interest.


Jamie catches the brief smile from Reigna, which he matches with a quick nod and, if not a -total- smile, at least a softened expression and the hint of one forming at the corner of his mouth. He leans over the jousting fence, almost child-like in his posture, chewing on a long piece of grass that he plucked from the ground. Despite his absence these last couple years, at least there are some people who still recognize him. Spotting Kael too, if their gazes catch each other, Jamie would offer up a nod from his perch not so far away. He takes note of some of the other (presumably) Keatons he doesn't recognize, affording each a subtle size-up before turning his full attention to the field.

Caspian wields Relentless, a keen-edged black steel dagger.

"Gloria, we hope to bring you honor today with our martial prowess. May our skill in this duel glorify your name. We seek a resolution to this dispute and ask that you bless our weapons so that those in the right may be vindicated and those in the wrong, find forgiveness." His eyes close as he focuses down on the hammerhead of his weapon. Rumbling out the prayer for all to hear. Finally he nods, "Thank you, Gloria. We fight in your name." The big man then turns to face Caspian, hammer being hefted up into both hands. "Alright, let's get this going, Caspian." The big man roars, sinking into his stance.

Amari smiles politely to all those she's familiar with seated nearby in the stands, with a dip of her head to those of higher station she recognizes. Lisebet gets a little wave, Cullen included. Reese, Cristoph and Therese get the respectful nod routine, but she's soon distracted from all that by the singing and the show kicking off. "Oh, excellent." She says, much to herself really, and quietly. "Points for style." Since she's looking out across the field then, she happens to notice Jamie's measuring look and tilts her head at him, a brow arching mildly at the man in his leathers and furs.

"No promises!" Caspian calls over to Reese as he draws his knife, grinning his way. "Yeah, lets go."

A fight has broken out here. Use @spectate_combat to watch, or +fight to join.

Alis is primarily here for moral support; so she and her now stoic expression will just remain seated at the noble benches. Her head, bowed when the Prayer to Gloria is spoken.

Reese looks just a bit nervous. She says to Isabetta. "Do you think a blue dress could count?" She asks.

Anya, the cool as an ice cube Champion apprentice have been dismissed.

A fight has broken out here. Use @spectate_combat to watch, or +fight to join.

Isabetta gives Reese a shrug then whispers something.

Bashira looks quite concerned for her brother when Jeffeth is using that big hammer. There's a look as they start. Waiting to see how it goes.

Snow glances around some of the others only for his eyes to land on Jamie and he gestures in the man's directions saying across to Bashira. "There is a good deal of northerner's here it seems. Or maybe he is not?" he seems to puzzle that for a moment only to fall back into watchful silence. And then the hammer is hefted by Jeffeth and Snow gives a little bit of a blink. "I am hoping the other has strong armor... that will crush weaker stuff..."

It's kind of strange, that with the noble stands quite busy and occupied, and all eyes on the duellists ready to go at it, there's one person out there by himself. Veronica's gaze drifts curiously towards Jamie, especially when the man looks in the direction of her family. Or perhaps only in their vicinity. Strange man, isn't he? That, apparently, can wait, and Veronica's attention goes back to the duel.

As the fight begins, Reigna's eyes are glued to the field, wincing each time either one looks like they are going to hit the other. There is a grin on her face though, an appreciation of the physical prowess on display, cheering for the both of them.

There is a lingering look to the hammer from Kael, his expression solemn, and when the prayer begins his head bows in a deep and respectful manner. That being said, when his chin lifts he is spying Jamie yonder. There is a curious look cast to the other man, considering, and it is clear that he recognizes him -- he is just trying to place him, you see. Ah-hah. And there it is, a nod of his head and a flash of that rueful smile before he turns back to the duelists and applauds.

Reese watches the fight with close attention, seemingly deeply engrossed and invested in such.

Caith has left the Noble Seating.

Stumphrey, a toast-colored corgi with big ears and a floofy butt have been dismissed.

Humphrey, a humorless brute with a ribbon in his hair have been dismissed.

Carys, a slight woman with ink-stained fingers have been dismissed.

3 Thrax Guards have been dismissed.

Cuddle Puddle, the loviest-doviest feline have been dismissed.

When the prayer ends and the fight begins, Fairen focuses his attention on the two fighters, watching each with keen observation. That posture of his though, remains cool and calculated, careful as the pair of the engage each other.

Drysi, a young shaman apprentice, Shailaja, a Whitehold Mountain Dog, GusGus, the fluffy Whitehold Mountain puppy, 2 Crimson Blades Private, Arik arrive, following Khanne.

Khanne has joined the Noble Seating.

Arik has joined the Noble Seating.

"He looks a little bit Northern. It might be the fur?" Bashira comments to Snow as she looks to Jamie and then gives a smile to that. She then looks back to Snow and there's a smile, "My brother is quick on his feet, so let us hope he isn't crushed this evening." she chuckles then returns to watching the two in the dueling ring.

Elizabetta, a disapproving lady-in-waiting, Lily, an aloof lady-in-waiting, Clark, an exasperated guard, Valor, a small brown and white corgi puppy, 2 Grayson House Guards arrive, following Sabella.

When the fight starts Caspian springs right into action with a lunge, swinging at the man's midsection with a swipe of his knife. So close! But no cigar, no blood drawn from the attack. He snaps his free hand, calling out, "You're pretty quick for a big guy!" And the fight is on, Caspian, much like himself, fights with an energy and a wide grin on his lips, moving quick, moving a lot, and even laughing as he does so, dodging left and right, ducking and weaving as he tries to cut at Jeffeth, moving forward to keep himself close to the bigger man. But luck is not on his side, because he's soon on the defense as Jeffeth's assaults pressure him.

Quenia casts a glance in Jamie's direction when some things are mentioned at the bench, giving him a curious look.

"The other is your brother? I am knowing the one I think," Snow replies to Bashira, about to say more but then Caspian is off quick on his feet and he can't help but give a bit of a cheer for the man, engaged in the display of knife work.

Lisebet sits quietly, watching the duel. She leans over occasionally to speak with those nearby.

Khanne rushes into the Proving Grounds in a near run, though she starts to slow her steps when she finally does arrive with her brother, Arik, in tow. She says to him. "Reigna, I must find Rei..." She looks around, finally spotting the woman in question amongst other nobles in the seating area. "Rei! I made it! I am here!" heading over in that direction, she takes her brother by the arm, pulling him along.

The fight begins, and it is immediately clear that Jeffeth is not trying to murder anyone with his giant hammer. There are no homerun strikes here. The big man is using the hammer more like a quarterstaff. A quarterstaff with a giant ass hammerhead on the end. But Jeffeth focuses on using the haft of the weapon as his primary offense and defense. As well as of course, throwing his weight around.

Caspian is smaller and quick, but Jeffeth quickly proves he is not slow on his feet. When Caspian dodges to the right, Jeffeth is sidestepping to block off the route, throwing his body in the way. While Caspian may be trying to run circles around him, the Knight of Solace is trying to cut off all routes of escape. While Caspian's knife does hit his leather armor once, Jeffeth is soon to return the favor. The bottom haft of the hammer smacks into Caspian's shoulder and then the center of the haft hits hard against Caspian's chest, driving him back slightly. Jeffeth is stepping forward, giving the other man a nod, going to engage further.

Arik is dragged along by the energetic shaman though upon seeing Reigna he lifts a calloused hand in greeting, "My Lady, I hope you enjoyed the whiskey." he says as they approach the fight going behind them.

Sabella arrives only a moment or two after Khanne, rushing as usual. "Why are we always late to these things!?" She's asking Elizabetta as she hurries over to the stands, "Who is winning?! It's not over, right?"

Sabella has joined the Noble Seating.

Ainsley has left the Noble Seating.

2 Grayson House Guards have been dismissed.

Alejandra, a snowy white hound have been dismissed.

Planchet, an unrelenting valet have been dismissed.

2 Iron Guardsmen have been dismissed.

Elloise has left the Noble Seating.

"Yes, the dark haired one is my brother. He's the Grandmaster of the Champions." Bashira states to Snow with a smile to him. But there's a gasp from the woman when Jeffeth hits Caspian with the hammer. Her hand reaches up to worry one of the pearls in her hair as she watches.

Reigna is on the edge of her seat, watching the duel, but Khanne's entrance can't be ignored. "Khanne!" Reigna get to her feet to embrace her friend and hug her tightly, "Caspian just took a blow to the chest with that hammer! It's very close." Reigna scoots closer still to Kael, crowding him to make room for Khanne to join her, "Hello Lord Arik!" The smile is bright, but Reigna is soon drawn back into the fight.


Leaning against the jousting fence and chewing on grass, Jamie, the prodigal Greenmarch son, seems quite at home with his proximity to the duel. Deep green eyes burn into memory every step taken, every air-whistling swing of a weapon. The distant look of a warrior, sizing up the champions in every minute detail. Every once in awhile he sweeps his gaze upward over the stands where all the other nobles are seated as newcomers navigate there way in, but for the most part he's completely dialed into the duel.

Khanne bites her lip, returning Reigna's hug tightly as she looks out to the duel. "Come on, Caspian!" When room is made for her, she wiggles her rear into the spot, looking past Reigna to Kael with a greeting nod. She slips her arm into the crook of her friend's holding her close as she then waves to Margret before looking out at the fighting again.

Snow "at least he is not hitting him with the head of the thing. but that still is looking uncomfortable," Snow says after letting out a woop for the match. He glances around, then just shrugs before he stands then hops up on the bench, clearly no manners whatsoever, as he looks out over the crowds, and yells, "Is best be stabbing soon!"

Arik freed from Khanne's arm as she wriggles onto the bench. Arik dips his head to Kael and instead makes his way over to sit behind Veronica!

Ravana the tawny eagle arrives, following Ansel.

Jerome, a bodyguard arrives, following Isabeau.

Things were going alright. Caspian was starting to relieve some of the pressure Jeffeth's tactical movements were putting on him and was starting to swing the fight back in his favor, getting that blade nice and close to some unprotected skin. But then Jeffeth catches him with the hammer right in the gut and he goes backwards with an audiable gasp of air, landing right right on his back in a momentary daze.

Pulling his focus away from the match, there is a smile cast toward the sibling pair. "Halfshavs," he rumbles, and while that might seem dismissive, it is most certainly not. There is undoubtedly a layer of affection there. Whatever the case, his focus is soon enough back on the match.

Philippe has joined the Noble Seating.

Reigna gasps at the blow Caspian takes, her hands coming up to cover her mouth, her eyes wide. She looks horrified at the possibility that Caspian might be genuinely hurt. She leans in to Kael, murmuring something in his ear, her expression more than worried and edged in guilt.

Fairen checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 4 lower.

Bashira stands quickly and clasps her gloved hands in front of her chin to not call out to her brother, not wanting to take his focus, "Get up Caspian." she breathes out. "You can do it." she whispers as she closes her eyes for a moment.

After Jeffeth's retort, Caspian is able to come back at him. The knife goes across Jeffeth's armor and the big man grimaces as he reals back. Then yet another attack from that knife. It has Jeffeth falling back under Caspian's assault trying to get some space to operate and away from Caspian's rapid attacks. As Jeffeth stumbles backward the big man blinks up, his hammer head goes up quickly in a thrust to catch Caspian's oncoming figure in the gut.

As Caspian reels, Jeffeth advances quickly. The hammer swings up, and over and down. In a terrifying strike that doesn't end up hitting Caspian until it's downswing, taking Caspian's legs out from under him. As the smaller duelist goes to the ground, Jeffeth is advancing even more.

The hammer slams down, and the hammerhead hits the ground next to Caspian. Though Jeffeth is also going down, his knee goes down to trap Caspian's arm against the grass, take that knee out of the picture. And then his free hand goes flying down at Caspian's face. Just a clean punch to the mouth nose area. With a heavy crack, Jeffeth is quickly retrieving from Caspian's prone body.

He holds up his hand, the one that just punched Caspian, it's bloodied. He then shows it down to Caspian.

When Caspian takes that hit, Fairen works to keep his composure, but really, there is no denying the wince. It certainly looked like a hard blow, and there is a look of concern on his expression, but then he regains himself, falling back to his cool demeanor.

Khanne bites her lip, watching Caspian go down. "Oh no... get up... come on Caspian!" She leans in to Reigna to whisper some soft words.

"Hundred silver on the Peerless Champion!" Arik calls in lieu of wishing for him to get up, betting money on the results!

Snow checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 0 higher.

Alis winces a little as the match progresses, especially as that last blow hits. She's barely been paying attention to who comes and who goes, though now she takes the time to glance over at the stands to see who all has arrived.

Reese seems pretty nervous as she watches the fight with all this intense interest.

Ansel has joined the Noble Seating.

Alis has joined the Noble Seating.

Isabetta watches quietly.

Snow gives a bit of a wince then says to Bashira, "He will be okay he will not need attention? There are healers?" he asks again, before that hammer head cracks into the ground, and he grimaces having to close his eyes, his body practically twitching with excitement. "He is still able to win, maybe..." the he sounds doubtful even as he tries to assure Bashira, from his stand on the spectator's bench, almost falling off as he leans forward as if trying to get a better look.

To be clear, Jeffeth is holding up his hand, it has blood on it. It's Caspian's blood. The match is over.

Caspian tries to resist Jeffeth when he goes to punch him, but he is unable to, trying to fruitlessly push the larger man off of him. No success. His nose is bloodied and he gasps out, "Ow! Shit!" His hand reaches up to cover his face, and that is when he notices the blood, "Ah fuck." He lifts up his fingers to show the blood, then gives the group a thumbs up, calling weakly, "I'm okay...I'm gonna just lie here for a moment...catch my breath...ugh..."

When Jeffeth proves to be the victor, Kael moves from where he was perched from the edge of his seat to rise and applaud. "Well fought, Sir Jeffeth Bayweather." Then, he pitches his voice louder, and applauds the duelist that was defending his wife. "Well fought, Master Wild!" That call, it's got a bit of Keaton Tournament Voice to it. Just because. Now, he has been by Reigna's side and though there might be a bit of Halfshav intervention, he is sliding his arm to pull her back, just a bit, to him. This is with a half smile, somewhat wry, cast to Khanne.

Cristoph watches as Caspian falls onto his back and he lifts his chin, then watches as Jeffeth lifts his weapon. He then drops his head in a nod and slips from his seat. It seems the duke will exit in much the way that he came in.

Lottie has joined the Commoner Stands.

Ariella glances at some of the chatter she overhears, then shakes her head. "You'd think some of you lords and ladies had never seen the resolution of a challenge before. Men and women fight and bleed for the honor and entertainment of others. They don't feel bad about it, nor should we." When Jeffeth drops a fist across Caspian's face she cheers and when aspian starts to get up she cheers again. Then, for good measure, calls out a third cheer, "Gloria!"

Lottie slipped into the Proving Grounds, quickly finding her way up to the commoner stands.

Ariella is overheard praising Caspian: Well fought!

Corban has left the Commoner Stands.

Reedy, a King's Own aide leaves, following Corban.

Ariella is overheard praising Jeffeth: Well won!

Khanne has a look about her that says, perhaps, 'yes, yes. Well fought.' But, there is also an evident pout, especially when Kael pulls Reigna closer to him again and away from her. She scrunches up her face and sticks her tongue out at the man playfully then.

Bashira opens her eyes in enough time to see Jeffeth punch her brother. Wait...what? "It's to the first blood, so Sir Jeffeth has won." she looks back to Snow. Then the Shaman dips under the railing to go see if her brother is alright, but she stops right at the edge of the dueling ring, because she doesn't know protocol. "Well fought you two." she states to Jeffeth and Caspian.

When that final blow is landed, and Jeffeth's hand comes up in Caspian's blood, there is a wince from Reigna -- not of defeat or pride, but empathy. Still, she gets to her feet and moves to stand before Fairen, lowering herself into a low curtsy. When she speaks, it is in the Keaton Outside Voice, the one that carries well, despite the alto pitch of her voice and the slight husk to it. One can see the effort it costs her, not to look over to Caspian there on the ground, to check to make sure he is still breathing, but in this moment, she gives all of her attention to Fairen, her face lowered humbly. "Marquis Fairen Leary, Gloria has claimed you the winner. Our feud is done and I am in the wrong. I will, as I promised, not seek to contact you, nor will I write of you or to you, within the pages of my White journal." She holds her bowed pose, that deep curtsy until Fairen gives her leave to rise.

Reese is overheard praising Caspian: Well fought

Reese is overheard praising Jeffeth: well fought

Reigna is overheard praising Caspian: You fought well and bravely, I could not have asked for more!

Reigna is overheard praising Jeffeth: You are a terror with that hammer, well fought Sir!

Bashira is overheard praising Caspian: Well fought dear brother!

Lisebet is overheard praising Caspian: well fought

Lisebet is overheard praising Jeffeth: well fought

Alis is overheard praising Caspian: Well fought!

Alis is overheard praising Jeffeth: Well fought!

"Yes, very well fought indeed, to both Champions." Fairen notes, his eyes lingering on the blood on Jeffeth's hand. "Thank you both for standing in as our Champions." Then he looks more towards Caspian, giving him a sympathetic, soft smile. "You are certain you do not need the attention of a Healer?" Then as Reigna approaches him, he turns to face her, bowing his head at her politely. "Thank you, Countess Keaton."

Bashira has left the Commoner Stands.

Alis is overheard praising Reigna: The epitome and grace, and honor.

Kael is overheard praising Jeffeth: Well fought!

Kael is overheard praising Caspian: Well fought!

Flinging the hammer over his shoulder, the large man goes to bow deeply to Reigna, Fairen, and Kael. "My Lords. My Lady." Straightening up he watches Fairen expectantly before walking over to Caspain and throwing his free hand out to the man to help him up. "Well fought." The big man rumbles. Though he pauses, going to wipe the blood on his leathers. Then the hand is offered to Caspian once more. "You alright Caspian?"

Snow calls down, at the ring and calls down, "If you are feeling like you are needing help I am being a healer," The youth exclaims, and he pats the pouch on his belt, even while he glances around, then looks abashed.

Kael is overheard praising Reigna: Almost as graceful as she is lovely!

"I could use the healer if one wants to look at me, make sure Jeffeth didn't knock my nose crooked," Says Caspian with a weezy voice, because he's pinching his nose to slow the bleeding. Slowly he picks himself up, smiling to Bashira and beckons her over.

Jerome, a bodyguard leaves, following Isabeau.


Jamie doesn't cringe or flinch in the slightest as the winning blows land. His eyebrows go up, but his intense posture and composure never dissolves. He's resolute, silently chewing on the long grass he pulled from the grounds around him. When it's over and the bloodied fist is thrown into the air, he nods to himself, confirming something in his own head, before settling back, relaxing against the fence. When it's over, he takes a moment to scan up into the crowd, spotting family members and quietly taking note of them. His attention returns to the Keaton procession, afforded a much better view of everything on the field due to his proximity. He remains off on the sidelines though, apparently satisfied with the segregated bubble he has created for himself in his little spot on the jousting fence.

Ansel has left the Noble Seating.

Ravana the tawny eagle leaves, following Ansel.

Caspian Oh, Caspian uses Jeffeth's hand too, because teamwork!

The moment she is acknowledged and released from her curtsy, Reigna is moving quickly from the seating to the field, hands lifting her skirts just enough to ensure she does not trip as she rushes over to Caspian's side. She immediately sinks to the grass to start looking Caspian over. "Your nose is swollen, and... well, this may hurt a bit." She touches it with gentle fingers, seeking a break along the bridge.

Quenia has left the Noble Seating.

Alis has left the Noble Seating.

Sir Rhys, a Valardin Knight, Laurene, a military adjutant leave, following Alis.

Quenia rises from her seat, and makes her way from the proving grounds.

Arik watches the exchange between Reigna and Fairen and then shifts his attention back to Veronica with a low chuckle.

Lottie called after Bashira's departure, "OK!" Probably a bit louder than needed amidst all the congratulatory discussions and seeing to the wounded. Volume control, not her forte. She rose back up to her feet, still a bit frumpy over having utterly missed the whole thing. She climbed down only to notice Khanne and instead she redirected herself to wait at the base of the noble seating area.

Snow settles back down on the bench, settling as he notes that all is in hand his eyes sweeping over the crowds, then he gives a small hum before he looks like he's debating on departing.

Kael is, it seems, taking this all in stride. Enough so that when Khanne is sticking her tongue out to him, he is placing a hand on her shoulder and nudging her a bit. His wife is making her announcement however and he stands where he is, expression sobering. Thereafter though, he is starting to her side, and traveling with her toward Caspian so that she can tend to him.

Caspian checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 5 lower.

Cristoph has left the Noble Seating.

Bashira gives a smile to Caspian as he finally speaks and she heads over to her brother, "You did wonderfully." she tells him as she pulls a cloth from her pocket to wipe some of the blood from his face. Though she moves out of the way for the healer. Then there's a look to Reigna as she approaches and there's a dip of her head to her, "Countess Keaton, thank you for looking over Caspian." she tells her quietly.

Isabetta claps her hands together and gives Reese a little hug as if the princess should be happy about this. "I won, look at that." She tells Reese, who probably already knows. Someone is cheery. She whispers something too.

"Ow ow ow ow!" Whines Caspian as Reigna touches his nose. But he doesn't pull away at least. It seems like his nose ain't broken ether, just blooded! "Sorry I didn't win for you," he appologizes to Reigna with a smile. "Jeffeth is tougher then I remember." He looks over to Jeffeth, giving him a thumbs up.

Lottie has left the Commoner Stands.

Snow slips down the row of stands and makes his way from the commoner section, starting to adjust his Mantel on his shoulders, his hands tucked beneath as he nods to himself. He takes in the crowds, then slips in amongst the people leaving before he hsakes his head and makes his way off, quietly thoughtful, as he seems off to view more of the city.

Snow has left the Commoner Stands.

Amari applauds sedately from the stands and stays put in her seat, watching, not the Champions but Reigna and Fairen. She doesn't look from them until they're done speaking, then the seriousness in her expression melts away and she smiles to Margerie first, then to Veronica and finally Sabella. "And that was a thing that happened." She says in a neutral sort of way, not too cheery, not too displeased. Hearing Arik, she turns to peer at him over her shoulder, "You're stealing Veronica, Lord Arik? Be careful, she bites and kicks, and pulls hair. Basically, she's very hard to steal."

Reigna looks up to Bashira and offers a smile, "It is my fault he was hurt. Helping is the least I can do." Reigna looks to Caspian and shakes her head, "You did your best and that is all I can ask for. You are still my Champion and I am entirely grateful for your representation." Reigna looks the man over and then begins examining his chest, "Your ribs appear to be bruised. Find an oile of sunflower and clove to rub on your skin and wrap your ribs for at least three days. Rest as much as you can and take willowbark tea for the pain. Or haze. That will put you into a resting sleep. Dust is better, less long term effects."

Lottie glanced back over her shoulder as she waited, a smile and small nod given to Snow as he passed her to depart.

Reese looks pretty grumpy as she listens to Isabetta's words! She leans into her, hearing the whisper and sucking in a soft breath. She murmurs something back.

Snow gives a dip of his head to Lottie on his way off.

Bashira shakes her head when Caspian whines, "Oh my goodness you have lived through worse things." she laughs. But it's the truth. She gives a look to Jamie though, the quiet one who has been standing at the side of the dueling ring this whole time and offers him a wave before she returns to watching her brother and Reigna. There's a soft smile to the Countess, "I'll make a list and make sure we have it at the house." she tells her quietly.

With the duel concluded, and Gloria honored, Fairen turns back to Isabetta and Reese. Then he walks towards the pair, wrinkling his nose up at each of them. "Thank you for showing up." He offers, then looks over at Reese and gives her a playful wink. "Even if one of you weren't loyal to me." He's teasing, of course, and then he looks over at Isabetta. "So, what kind of 'blue' are you going to make her wear? Hopefully something absurd?"

"You are too kind," Caspian says with a bright smile back to Reigna. "Also, that's the first time someone's recommend illegal drugs for pain," he says with a wink her way. Looking over to Bashira he asks, "So, impressed by your big brother?"

Veronica narrows her eyes at Amari's explanation of her stealability. "Aren't you a lawyer? You are not supposed to misrepresent facts. I most certainly do /not/ pull hair... unless I am fighting a woman. So you have nothing to worry about, Lord Arik." The blondest Keaton deadpans to the mighty beard of Arik Halfshav.

The upbeat yet mostly rhythmless song that Arcadia is humming is cut short the second she rounds the corner from the Grayson Gate. She pauses at the unexpected crowd, and her head tilts with curiosity at the few familiar faces amongst it. "Huh," she chirps out to herself, lips popping together. She stares at Fairen, quizzical, and then squeezes and sidles through the crowd until she's by his side. "What is all this?"

"Good job, Sir Jeffeth and Master Caspian!" Sabella calls out from the stands, standing and giving waves to those around her as she makes her way down, which just happens to bring her past Jamie, "You could've had a seat you know," she says with a laugh, "Or would you just have been on the edge of it the whole time and decided not to bother?"

Sabella has left the Noble Seating.

Philippe has left the Noble Seating.

"It was well fought, Master Wild," says Kael, vaguely from his wife's side -- he's stepped back a couple of paces to give the small group room, you see. To Caspian's sister, he inclines his head, but thereafter he is scanning the stands to take note of his family as well as a few other people in particular. In the end however it's back to his wife that he looks. So rather typical of him, of course. Always back to his wife.

Ariella watches the aftermath for a while, then shakes her head and gets up to walk off, throwing up a wave to anyone who she may recognize, or at least who may recognize her since she doesn't actually look back.

Arik reaches up to stroke his formidable beard with one hand and look between Amari and Veronica with a mild narrowing of his eyes. He then observes, "I'm sure she'd simply stab me if it was unwanted. Should we wait until the Count and Countess finish with the champions or should we away?" and then he adds to Amari with a glance of frost grey eyes, "Since Cullen isn't coming, I don't think. You are welcome to my Lady."

"Less illegal and more... illicit. The fact of the matter is, when one is in pain, there are things that lessen it. If it works... it works. I prefer Dust for my patients, as the cravings after are less intense. Still." Reigna gets to her feet and stands, "You did a wonderful job. And I thank you." She looks to Bashira and smiles, "I have not yet had the pleasure, I am Reigna Keaton, Countess of Oakhaven." When Kael looks to her, she slips her arm around him and leans in. If she is sad about losing the duel it is not showing on her face.

Margerie chuckles at Amari's description. "She's usually the one that's hunting people down instead of being stolen, as well. At least you've given the Voice a fair warning, it seems." She nods to Veronica as the Sword perpares her exit, then to Lisebet as she rises from her seat. "It is a blessing to see so many learning diplomacy, and learning to pass on those lessons. I am grateful to all those who seek such wisdom."

"I will have to get used to these fights. As I'm not allowed to jump the barrier and smack Sir Jeffeth. That's the initial response from seeing your first fight. But you did very well and I can see why you like your daggers so much." Bashira admits to Caspian. Then there's a smile and a bow of her head to Kael, "Count Keaton, it's a pleasure to meet you, I'm Bashira Ru-Taul. Caspian's sister." she offers in greeting.

Reese looks over to Fairen and sucks in a soft breath. "We are discussing that right now. It is between blue cheap armor, a blue dress with my hair dyed blue and well something blue. I think those are my choices." She looks over to Isabetta to confirm. For some Reese doesn't state the third option. "I am worry that blue armor will make me slow if we get attacked, if its cheap armor and blue hair dye might not wash out very quick and well this is a diaster." Reese mrumurs. She then peeks over to Caspian, as if trying to make sure the Champion is alright.

"Well, well." Fairen replies, wrinkling his nose up at Cady as she arrives. His tone is teasingly accusing, as if she did something wrong. "You missed the duel, Lady Arcadia." Then he looks back at Isabetta and Reese, nodding to the latter. "I would recommend the blue dress with your hair dyed blue. That would be particularly entertaining."


"This was the best seat in the house." Jamie replies, his voice contrastingly soft with a bit of a rumble to it from an otherwise hard and sculpted exterior. He slides down from his perch on the jousting fence, grass still sticking out of the corner of his mouth as he brings his full attention to Sabella. With the duel over and the gathering slowly deterioriating, it seems as good a time as any for the Greenmarch son to do the same. Sabella's laughter seems a bit infectious and manages to coax a hint of the possibility of a smile, while also tethering him to the spot as he looks at her. "What did you think of the duel?" He turns then, his question pitched as his eyes turn back to the field.

Isabetta gives Reese an agreeable nod. "I think you could do blue hair without it lasting a long time Reese, just color it with blue chalk. It will wash right out and you will look positively ridiculous. That's fair right?" She looks from Fairen to Reese and then back again as if they were talking about something a little more normal.

2 Grayson House Guards have been dismissed.

Alejandra, a snowy white hound have been dismissed.

Planchet, an unrelenting valet have been dismissed.

2 Iron Guardsmen have been dismissed.

The big man starts to retreat from the duelling circle, eyes searching the crowd. Jeffeth's attention is torn briefly over to Bashira where he gives a light grimace. Then he gives a firm nod over to Fairen, lumbering over to the man to murmur to the man quietly.

Upon noticing the Count and Countess Keaton, Arcadia perks up, delivering to them a breezy mix of a bow and a curtsy, fingertips pinching up the ends of her cloak as she dips her head forward. "Count. Countess." After that brief pleasantry, her eyes flick back up to her older cousin's face, "Why are you calling me Arcadia?" she wonders with a suspicious squint, "Am I in trouble. And... Duel?" A long, lingering pause. She tries her best to stifle a laugh. "You?" Her eyes scan the Marquis' body, head to toe. "What did you do..? Throw books at them?" She bites at her lower lip.

Lisebet gives Cullen and Terese a quizzical look, and then she smiles. "Lord Cullen, if you've official business, I shall take my leave." There's a nod to Margerie, and she says, "I am hopeful to learn better how to sway a crowd and - oh, so many things from you, as you have time. And thank you for putting up with me." The blue hair discussion? That she doesn't comment on for a moment, and then she says, "It might become the height of fashion." And then as Cullen sends Arik on, she chuckles softly, still undecided as to her next steps.

"He has been warned." Amari smiles to Margerie, "But his hair is long and I'm certain you could get enough of a grip on his beard to make a mess of his face." Amari assures her blonder cousin as if she's quite serious. Despite that, she's still smiling even as she looks back to Arik, brows rising, "I'm not much of a replacement for Cullen, I'm afraid. You Swords go have fun. I wanted actually to introduce myself to your sister, properly." So that's why she's rising and trying to spy Khanne, "She hasn't left has she?"

"I count both men as friends, so I have to say that it was hard to watch," Sabella admits to Jamie with a shrug of one shoulder, leaning an elbow on the fence herself, "Though I have tried to embrace the spirit of the thing in that they both basically have volunteered and seem to greatly enjoy both swinging weapons and being hit by them. Maybe a little less of the latter. Are you a champion or intending to be?" She asks, then adds quickly, "Oh! Apologies, I am Princess Sabella Grayson. I say that phrase so often--oh, apologies--and then follow it up with an introduction that one might think it were planned that way but no, I just constantly forget my manners it seems."

Reese sucks in a soft breath and looks to Isabetta. "Alright. That sounds fair. I will come to a party in a blue dress and with blue hair. Sometime soonish." She says, sounding deeply troubled by this idea.

Arik says in Northlands shav, "Khanne oh Khanne. You have another admirer, you're so beloved... Enjoy your crowd."

"I'm glad you were entertained," Caspian says back to Bashira, leaning over to give her a one armed hug. He gives a nod to Reigna, "I'll give it a try then, my lady. Thank you for hiring me. It's been boring just working and not fighting. I haven't had this much fun in a while." He looks over to Reese, calling out, "I can't wait to see you in your Blue Debut!"

Khanne claps a hand on her brother's shoulder as she stands. "Welp, have fun, Brother Dear." She smiles at Veronica, Amari, and Cullen who all speak with him before something, or someone, catches her eye down below the noble seating. "Lottie! The icicles were a hit!" She calls out as she approaches.

Arik says something to Khanne who is only a row or so down from him his tone implying he's calling out to her and teasing her at the same time.

Reigna makes sure she takes a moment to look over Jeffeth as well, checking him for any injuries and ensuring he is in good shape before she steps away. She looks around then, searching for Khanne, trying to locate her friend and if she can find her, wave her over.