3 Last Watch Sentries arrives, following Donella.

A newcomer to the hart, Modi arrives with his hands behind his back and fresh snow decorating his shoulders and black locks of hair. An older sort, he may look broad but he's certainly not dressed to be competing this evening. Nonetheless he wears a warm smile, traveling through the arena. Clad in umbra and glittering gems, he appears almost as if he were a traveling piece of the night sky. The man sits himself down by the ringside's great table.

Modi has joined the ringside great table.

The large double doors to the Hart's massive arena open and in with a flutter of southern silk skirts and a bright and beautiful smile comes the little vixen at the side of the formidable rogue Theodoric. She smiles at the sight before her. Many beautiful peoples of Arx abound, drinks flowing freely and her staff rushing her and there to see that all her guests are well cared for. A happy smile finds her lips as she glances to Theodoric, "It is times like this I am humbled that so many wonderful people would come to my Hart in such weather. I am... so very touched," she offers with a little breath of emotion upon her face.

Donella has joined the ringside table.

Micana arrives, following Lucita.

1 Grayson House Guards, Peaches, a lovely white war filly with a peach saddle, Deliverance, an albino falcon, Stormy, a silvery gray hunting hound, Rascal, a hyper terrier, Rosalie, a lady in waiting, Lucita, Amorria arrive, following Reese.

Helena has joined the ringside table.

Merek has come to the sparring night with his black attire on and a cloak about his form, hood up. He seems to have come to watch and finds a seat to settle into, as he picks up whatever wine he can find upon the path.

Having missed the past few sip n spar events for the majority of the year, Alessia Mazetti has decided to partake once again, albiet sober this time. She has donned her white leather garb for the occasion, a plain steel glaive in it's sheathe on her back.

Nallah, a buff-looking tortie cat with green eyes have been dismissed.

2 House Mazetti Aspirants have been dismissed.

Sirra, a very quiet maid have been dismissed.

Donella has come again to the sip and spar, and takes a place at one of the ringside tables, drumming her fingertips against her chin attentively.

Ramona - A Farshaw House Guard, Bigsby arrive, following Lisebet.

Reese arrives at the spar while adorned in her rosy tunic and ivory leggings. She has pink ribbons in golden locks and lots of weapons. The girl looks over the area, trying to get a feel for things things. She is not far from Amorria. "So this is the Sip and Spar. Prince Valencia hosts them."

Alrec turns away from registering to watch Valencia and Theodoric make their entrance, clapping to the whole spectacaul of the thing. Wearing nothing but smooth leather, the admiral approaches Caspian and says, "I wish to fight."

Catching sight of Donella, Helena smiles and heads that way; the snow speckles the red cloak around her and her color is bright from the chill in the air, the pink hue making her blue eyes seem all the bluer. She sits down near Donella, offering her fellow Redrain a bright smile and a warm hello. She catches sight of Valencia's entrance and waves to the hosting princess, then takes a sip from the drink she's somehow found herself with.

"It is any wonder, the heat of sport warms the blood just as much as a comforting fire, not to mention all the fine spirits." Theodoric smirks, finding a chair for Valencia. "Though there is something appealing about watching the steam rise from blood spelled on the cold ground that reminds that you're not dead yet." he says to her. Theodoric grabs the back of a staff member roughly by his tunic as he tries to rush by, "Whiskey." he says in a gruff voice.

Lethe steps inside wearing a green gown. She looks to Valencia with a smile before going to find a seat.

Terese smiles and nods to Caspian, and informs Valencia as well, "I'd like to fight as well. Lets see how I do. I did tell you that I'd return and do my best to participate and so I have."

Amorria steps through the doors and lingers off to one side, eyes widening a bit at the amount of people and the sounds and chaos. She lingers as much out of the way as possible and looks around, looking for a place to sit or maybe a familiar face.

Spying Donella, Caspian gives the woman a bright smile and a cheerful wave, then turns to Valencia as he gives the woman a warm smile, "Hey there Princess. Long time no see," he greets her as he props an elbow upon the table. He makes sure his new sword and knife are showing so everyone can see how much of a bad ass he is.

Lisebet comes into the arena, arm in arm with her sister Elsbetta. "Come on, let's say hello to whoever is here, get a drink and see if anyone is sparring today." She heads over to offer a polite curtsey to Valencia. "Your Highness, have you met my sister Lady Elsbetta? Els, this is Princess Valencia."

Lucita walks in with Reese and Amorria. Her boots are a little damp but not dripping, snow having been stamped off already. She lets her cloak slide off her shoulders and drapes it over one arm. A cheerful smile is on her lips and she glances around noting who is there. "Told you would come if was able to, Princess Valencia. And here I am, at least for a little while. You have a good crowd already it seems."

Donella leans toward Helena, and offers her hands warmly, along with her greeting. "THERE you are, Helena. I was beginning to think we'd sent you fleeing back to Farhaven. Taran has missed attaching himself to you leg; such a naughty boy." She likewise inclines her head warmly toward Valencia who was for so long a fixture amongst the northerners. She raises an arm to fund a round of drinks for the fighters, and the competition minders, amongst them Caspian. There'll be a big, frothing tankard awaiting him when he settles in a place.

It's hard to say which exactly one might notice first, the insistently cheerful giggles that ring out of the little Alchemist, or how he so impossibly bounces around in a flurry of motions that might remind of a storm. Either way, that's exactly how Draven arrives, giggles brightly and bouncing his way into the Arena section of the Hart. For such a small man, there is certainly a large amount of energy radiating off of him, and he doesn't look like he will stop moving for even the faintest of a second.

Elsbetta smiles shyly and says "Very nice to meet you Your Highness, Princess Valencia." Curtsying prettily

Alrec stares at the knife for a moment, looking back up to Caspian, clearing his throat.

Calandra Whisper arrives, all smiles and ebon hair loose and flowing. She's doffed the thick fur cloak and it drapes over her arm, still speckled with bits of ivory snow. There are waves for a few, polite, musical greetings for those the Nightingale Whisper does not know.

Lore lifts a hand into a big wave and grins towards Helena, "Hello again! Glad to see you made it!"

Reese peeks over to Lucita, having a gentle smile for baroness that reaches her blue eyes. She continues further inside. "Oh, this is quite the turn out." She murmurs, sounding all pleased. She waves to Valencia.

"Anyone else fighting! I got three people who want a round in the ring!" Calls CAspian to the crowd. "Don't be shy! Go have some fun, alright?!"


"I've been around -- I was studying for the Scholar exam, though now I've passed, I need to study for the next one," says Helena with a smile toward Donella. "And I may run back in the summer when it's warm, but now there's no need to -- the spirit of the north is here among us," she says, brushing some snow off of her cloak. "I will be sure to play some games with Taran soon. I love him so." When Lore waves to her, Helena beams. "I did! It's so good to see you twice in the same day!" she tells the other woman.

Skapti takes a another quaff of his ale, and sort of just people watches as all the fancy folk enter and make their presence known. For his own part, he seems content to sit at his table and enjoy the show.

Skapti has joined the corner table.

"I'll fight." Alessia raises her voice to be heard.

Reese is welcomed with a bright smile and a little hug, the little vixen so very happy to see her friend once more. "I'm so happy to see you , highness," Valencia beams, "Please be welcome. You know my dearest Missere Theodoric, yes?" she asks looking between them Reese and Amorria as Alrec arrives. For him there is a brigth smile and a breath. But the crowd is growing and she loses sight of the man for now. Catching sight of Helena's welcoming wave, she returns it with another warm smile, happy to see another lovely and familiar face.

The little southern princess greets Caspian with the offer of a delicate hand. "Thank you for helping me this evening, sir" Valencia offers along with a smile to Terese. "I would be so very happy to have you show your talents on the sands, highness," she smiles to Terese. "Please be well welcome. I will introduce Missere Grandmaster Champion very soon, I promise.

Reese looks over to Valencia. She eagerly returns the Princess' hug. "Oh, I do know him, but it is a pleasure to see you again Master Theodoric." She says softly. She waves over to Caspian and then smiles when Alessia speaks of fighting.

"Unless there's someone else willing to engage in a brawl, I think I'm going to be sitting here with you Cas," Lore grins towards him and lifts her cup for a swallow.

Donella answers, "I will hold you to it. Or rather, he will. Like a barnacle, my son. Only more red." She calls over, "Ribbons! Am I to bet on you, tonight or what?"

Caspian gives Valencia a bright smile and a two fingered salute, "You know I'm always here to help you if you need it!"

Alrec frowns at the number of fighters, hearing Lore talk about lack of competitor, "I can brawl you. I'm a professional wrestler but," He says the last part to Caspian, "I also want to fight in the weapon fight."

Lisebet grins, inclining her head to the other folks near Valencia. "Princess Reese, it's good to see you as well." A nod to Theodoric, and then a glance over and a smile to Caspian, along with a small wave of greeting.

Sir Floppington, the soulful hound arrives, following Rowenova.

Merek stretches a bit as he pulls his cloak back to show all he wears, as he shifts his gaze to others, seeming thouhtful a moment. He waves over to Valencia, "Your Highness, nice to see you about, I don't come to these as often as I should!"

Calandra approaches Valencia and Theodoric with a bright, dimpling smile. There's a curtsey for the royal of the duo, and a murmured greeting. "Your Highness, lovely as always/

Grinning up at Alrec's offer, Lore gives a nod, "Alright then! This should be fun!"

Calandra approaches Valencia and Theodoric with a bright, dimpling smile. There's a curtsey for the royal of the duo, and a murmured greeting. "Your Highness, lovely as always." To Theodoric, the Whisper adds, playful, "Landlord."

"A charming barnacle. It's okay. He's just practicing to be a man," says Helena with a playful grin. She waves to Caspian as he helps to organize the event, having so recently seen him as well, along with Lore, earlier today.

"LEts get these fights on the way! Still looking for one more person to make it even! Otherwise, I'll have to get down there myself!" Caspian calls out to the crowd, pointing to the sands, "First up, Alessia verses Alrec! Terese still awaits a challenger!"

Reese looks over to Lisebet, having a smile for her. "Lady, Lisebet, it is nice to see you again." She says toward her.

a small twilit kingsnake, Talwyn arrive, following Macda.

Amorria smiles warmly to Valencia and seems to look to Reese from time to time as they exchange words before shaking her head and chuckling, "I am afraid I have not had the pleasure." Though she spots Alrec and smiles a bit, the waves of people making her lose sight of the man once again. Her large eyes roam on, looking for other familiar faces before she spots the bubbling energy coming from Draven, which seems to hold her attention for longer than most things might.

Lucita as always is given a warm hug and kiss upon the cheek, "Baroness, you bring me such delight to see you. I'm glad you are here, my dearest," Valencia nods warmly. "Thank you." Turning, she offers another smile as Draven arrives and then Elsbetta, "Good evening, my lady," she smiles, returning Elsbetta's curtsy with a warm and graceful incline of head. "Welcome to my Hart. Please, you will enjoy drinks tonight I hope?" she invites as she seeks to catch Calandra's eye and offer a warm smile her way and then another to Lisebet, her smile growing brighter by the moment.

Scout Nova and Sir Floppington show up, and the human bean of the two moving in a slide step toward wherever Draven has gotten himself to.

Donella raises her hand in greeting toward Rowenova and her arrival to the soiree, pointing out a convenient ringside seat with her other hand, should it be needed. To Helena, she remarks, "Did you find the Archscholar's exam very strenuous, by the by?"

Alrec bows politely to Lore, flashing her a grin, "Thank you. I trained under Dame Ida but have not wrestled for many years. Are you from a school in specific?"

Draven doesn't stop giggling, and he doesn't stop bouncing around as he beams his bright smile at anyone in it't path, completely indescriminate for who his cheerful expression might land on. He sees Amorria looking his way, which draws his smile towards her, and he waves at her wildly with excessive giggles. "Hello! Hi! Hey there! I don't know you!" He says, his words coming out of his mouth rapidly as he suddenly darts towards her.

Waldemai cheers the start of the fights. "Fight fight fight!" he chants. The bucket of ale is already showing signs of extinction.

Lethe has joined the ringside table.

Chuckling, Lore lifts a shrug, "Eurus? Does that count as a school? Dame Ida helped me round out a few more, um... 'proper' fighting techniques. But otherwise, my school is something a bit... different."

Lucita returns the kiss on the cheek and hug. "You have so many here, I'll wait till a quieter time and we can talk." She moves toward the side, letting others greet the Princess. On hearing a few familiar voices, she lifts a hand to wave.

Theodoric lifts his newly acquired whiskey to the various nods, welcomes, mysterious hand gestures, rude and non-rude looks, and finally to Calandra Whisper. "Nightingale" His attention divided by the combatants as they begin to file into the ring, looking bold and capable.



Gracefully clad in scarlet southern silks that embrace enticing curves, Valencia moves to the center of the Ring of Valor.

Offering a beautiful smile and a gracious incline of her head to the room, she calls out, "My lords and ladies, misseres and madams, dearest friends.... welcome to my Hart. Thank you for braving winter's worst to join us tonight."

"Tonight, we have a special guest who will be hosting the matches this evening," the little vixen calls out with a gentle smile. "It is my great honour to announce that tonight's Master of Tourney is none other than the renowned Grandmaster of the Champions Guild, Missere Caspian Wild," she offers with a respectful incline of head to Caspian.

"Thank you for gracing us so, Grandmaster Wild. I think will be a very exciting tournament with you at the helm," she says with a sparkle in her large dark eyes as she turns back to graciously address the crowd.

"And, thank you to you, my dearest friends, for making our Hart so full and so very happy," she continues warmly. "To our competitors, good luck. To one and all, bar is open for your pleasure. Please enjoy the festivities!"

"Missere Champion Caspian, if you would please take to the sands and begin tonight's matches," the little vixen invites warmly as she begins to step off the sands.

Alessia approaches Lucita with a grin. "Baroness, it's been so long. How have you been?"

Caspian has left the ringside great table.

Caspian has joined the ring of valor.

Amorria raises her brows and chuckles, the bright energy from Draven cracking her shy demeanor in two and bringing out a bright smile which seems to crease the corners of her eyes. "Hello! I dun know you either! I am Amorria Arterius. Then again I do not know many people." A giggle escapes before she chimes in wonder, "And you?"

Sir Floppington gently noses Draven then pads over to Donnella. Nova waves with a slight nod to her, too, but momentarily clasps Draven's shoulders within her calloused hands (the right one of which has a glimmering ring). She leans down then quietly whispers before she might move away. A wave is sent out to all who are currently known by the wolfy scout, like her patron and the hostess tonight and plenty more before she slowly moves toward that ringside table, doing so slowly enough that Draven can reply if he likes.

Theodoric has joined the ringside great table.

Helena also waves to Nova (and the dog) but shakes her head at Donella. "No, except I may have shocked poor Scholar Oswyn a little, with one of my answers. It didn't keep me from passing, at least." She quiets a moment when Valencia greets the guests and begins the tournament, her eyes bright as she turns to watch Caspian enter the ring to start the tournament. "The next on will be more difficult, I'm sure," she murmurs.

Lisebet inclines her head to Valencia. "This is quite a crush, congratulations." A glance over to Reese. "It is lovely to see you again. Have you met my sister Elsbetta?" she introduces. And a nod to Amorria as well, as she is in the area. "A pleasure to meet new faces, always. I am lady Lisebet Farshaw."

"I've been meaning to speak with you, Master Theodoric," Calandra asides to Theodoric with an easy smile. "Auda and I were hoping to have a winter party on the roof of the Commons apartments. Something completely inappropriate and rowdy. You don't mind, do you?" Her eyes track the combatants and some of the party-goers she recognizes.

Talwyn saunters in with Macda on his arm, though he does appear more dragged than escort in this particular instance. He offers a cheerful wave to Lucita as he notes her, and approaches the larger table, selecting seats well outside of bloodletting range before pulling a chair out for Macda.

Talwyn has joined the ringside great table.

Calandra has joined the ringside great table.

Caspian steps into the ring, turning to the crowd as he calls out, "Tonight, we have Lady Alessia, wielding a steel glaive, verses Alrec, who wields a scimitar. You two, get down here, and when you are ready, start the match!" He says to them, "We are still looking for one more competitor for a match against Princess Terese, and after that, we will have a special match of unarmed combat verses Lore and Alrec!"

Alrec has joined the ring of valor.

Standing beside Talwyn as he pulls out a chair, Macda looks for a tall, armour-clad Templar in the crowd. It doesn't take her much time, but it causes her to rise on her toes to be sure. She leaves Talwyn at the table with a 'moment' mention. Reaching Terese in strides, the Grayson princess greets her over the din of the crowded arena. "Are you fighting tonight?" She looks more than eager to find out.

Caspian has left the ring of valor.

Reese cheeks as the patch is announced. She has a gentle smile for Macda, waving to her cousin. She then goes to find a place, moving with her nimble grace.

Amorria smiles brightly to Lisebet and dips her head, "I am Amorria Arterius, It is lovely to meet you." Her offering comes small and a bit shy, but the warm smile I suppose is suppose to make up for the lack of flare that could be held otherwise.

Lethe has left the ringside table.

Lethe has joined the ringside great table.

Terese smiles warmly to Macda,"Ah, Macda! Lovely to see you. I hope you've been well.I shall be fighting tonight, if they find an opponent for me, yes."

Reese has joined the ringside great table.

If one were to speculate, the impression that Draven has to actually both physically and mentally stop himself from tackling poor Amorria with a hug might actually linger in the mind. He stops just short of her, giggling happily and bouncing his wrists off of his thighs as he bounces on the balls of his feet. "Hello! Hi again! You seem so much friendlier up close! I'm the Draven of Bruvir! It's okay! I don't mind not knowing you! I want to now though! I like you! You seem nice! Oh! Do you like Things! Or Stuff! Or both! I bet both! No! I bet just Things! But Stuff is okay! I bet! Watch!" Comes the spill of his words out of his mouth, just in time to reach down and pet at Sir Floppington as he arrives, and then leap at Nova as she steps up to him. He leaps a happy hug at her, expecting her to catch him and wrapping his arms aroudn her. "Hi Nova!"

Smiling more easily Elsbetta looks over to Reese. "Very nice to meet you." She says softly. "So many new faces since I am newly arrived at the city." she continues

Donella puts her hands out for Sir Floppington with an enraptured grin. "No doubt," she says. "But nothing worth doing is ever easy, so so they say." Her eyes narrow slightly as they fix on Alrec mounting to the ring, in recognition. She applauds for the pair of competitors, gamely.

Noticing the spar is about to begin, Alessia takes her leave, offering Lucita a quick wave before heading to the ring. Unsheathing her glaive when she arrives.

Macda lifts a hand to Reese as she goes by, "Cousin! Afternoon!" Her voice trying to reach.

Alessia wields a nondescript steel glaive.

Alessia has joined the ring of valor.

Alrec looks up when he hears his name, prompting him to shout and roar, hyping himself up for the fight as he walks across the hall and into the ring. He looks over to his opponent Alessia, nodding from a distance and then turning to the crowd to wave his Pravus flag before securing it and drawing his blade.

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

Just as Nova was about to turn away, Draven leaps at her, and she spins back and happily catches him into a giggling hug. She quietly whispers with him for another go with a slight nod, then she sets him down.

Viveka makes her way into the Golden Hart and it's impressive arena. Soft teal gaze moving over the crowd alreay there.

Amorria eeps lightly as the match is announced and starts to head for a spot to watch from, darting between a few people to get a good view.

Caspian has joined the ringside great table.

Lisebet shakes her head, briefly, and then tugs at Elsbetta. "Let's go to the bar, and get something to drink, shall we? I think we can watch the match from there."

Lucita says, "Good luck, Lady Alessia! She speaks softly and moves toward a seat to watch."

Lisebet has joined the bar.

Caspian has left the ringside great table.

Caspian has joined the corner table.

Sir Flop happily wags to Donella and Helena, looking up with soulful eyes toward either one. He even goes so far as to put his noggin under Donella's hand.

Lucita has joined the ringside great table.

Elsbetta has joined the bar.

Alessia grips her glaive tightly with both hands, one hand above, one hand below as she prepares for the fight to commence. She offers her opponent a nod and a smile.

Draven has joined the raised seating.

When Draven is set back down on the ground, he giggles again with his unyieldingly cheerful smile. Then he sees that Amorria has taken off to find a place to sit, and he darts through the crowd after her!

Amorria has joined the raised seating.

Donella tilts her head slightly, an readjusts in her chair to see the entrance better. Viveka's transient gaze is met, and acknowledged, and she gestures to an empty place at their seating. The more the merrier.

Macda has joined the ringside great table.

Alrec stretches, his gaze fixed on his opponent from across the ring. His blade swings from side to side for a moment before he joins Alessia at the ring. One foot goes in front of the other and while always moving, Alrec never tries to approach her.

Lisebte also gives Amorria a grin. "Nice to meet you - would you like a drink?"

Rowenova has joined the ringside table.

Nova waves goodbye to Draven and then waves to Lucita on her own way to a ringside table before finally seating herself near Donella and Helena.

Glancing up, Valencia waves to Master Waldemai, happy to see he has is ale already. "Will you be laying bets tonight, missere?" she inquires to the rafters above. There is a little smile as Alrec takes to the sands to face Alessia and Valencia touches her delicate fingers to full lips in amusement as the fight begins.

Turning back, Valencia offers the warmest of nods and smiles to Rowenova as she arrives and to the Wolfscouts beloved, Draven. Sir Floppington is given an affectionate look as he is laden with affection by the other guests. The crowd seems to grow louder as the combatants set to the match.

Valencia has joined the ringside great table.

Amorria finds a spot in the raised seating, not having noticed Draven tailing behind, settling down on a seat she grins when she spots Alrec in the ring, wiggling a bit in her seat in anticipation.

Dame Tommelisa Thistlefur, Wilhelm the Iron Messenger arrive, following Sparte.

Macda waves to Sparte as she sees him in the crowd.

Lucita watches as Draven and Amorria head up to some of the upper seats. She projects her voice toward them so it is not a shout at all, just makes her normal speaking voice reach a distance, one of the things one trained to sing or give speeches does. "Master Waldemai up there has a good seat to see everything goes on, and may know enough about the ones sparring to give some tips."

Sir Floppington sits down between Donella and Helena and soaks up affection with his soulful eyes half lidding.

Plopping down happily into a seat, and still moving at impossible rates, Draven giggles and waves his hand wildly over at Valencia. It's enough motion that the entire seating area might move along with him. Then he beams his smile over at Lucita, waving his hand wildly over at her too!

Alessia moves to strike with her blade, though misses her mark while taking a minor hit from Alrec. Grimacing, she takes a few steps back as she prepares for the next attack.

Alrec is very patient with his approach, sticking to her outer limits and only approaching when he could parry the long weapon away. His blade comes up to graze the inside of her arm but as quickly as he strikes, he pulls back to safety. Nodding and smiling playfully to Alessia.

Amorria waves an acknowledgement from her seat to lucita and flashes a grin from her seat, she looks as if she starts to call over to her but instead gives a second wave and looks at all the people directly near with uncertainty.

Berto ambles into the Hart at a slightly erratic waddle, looking around toward the spectators and the ring of valor with a wide, slightly inebreated grin on hia face He shuffles in the general direction of the ring, diverting only to get a tall cup of something brown and warming in a cup.

Sparte slips into the crowd with a lifted hand for Macda as she spots his approach, making his way to find a good spot to sit down and watcht he fight in progress.

Sparte has joined the ringside great table.

Donella is all about the scritches, particularly for the lonely spot between doggy ears.

Talwyn checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 92 higher.

Viveka nods politely to Donella as she catches the her gaze. Making her way toward the woman's table as a seat was offered to her. Noting a familiar face in Skapti as she does so. Giving nod of greeting his way. "Evening," she offers to the table as she takes a seat.

Viveka has joined the ringside table.

On her next strike, the glaivedancer takes a more aggressive approach and manages to get her target this time, although takes a hit for minor damage, having little time to focusing on dodging his attack. She prepares herself for another round with little pause.

Alrec grows a little bit cocky with his first attack and strikes more regularly at Alessia, hitting his mark but at the cost of his defense. A chuckle escapes him, "Odd choice of weapon, my lady." He says, snapping his arm to shake the tension in his body and blade.

Dark eyes fall upon the ring and the little raven-haired princess seems drawn into the fight on the sands. Berto's arrival is still noted and the man is offered a warm incline of head. Sparte's arrival is also warmly regarded, the little vixen practically beaming with open delight, "My Missere Sparte, truly it is good to see you. Please join us, yes?" Valencia invites, turning to call for more bottles to be brought before turning her attention to the battle in the sands below. "They are beautiful, yes? Such skills...," she whispers with awe.

Berto has joined the ringside great table.

Alessia chuckles at his comment as neither of their strikes have much of an impact. "If I had a silver for every time I've herd that." She readjusts her grip on the weapon. "It's fairly standard to me now though." She says, nodding to the steel in her hand as she readies herself once again.

Sparte grins at Valencia as he takes a seat, dipping his head to. "Princess Valencia, it would be my pleasure. I'm glad to have enough time to come tonight." Sparte lifts his hand to Reese as well as he settles into a seat near her. "I hope you'll be showing us all how it is done tonight."

Amorria seems to grow a bit flustered by all the chaos in the area, but more so because her attention can only be in so many places at once. Her attention continues to shift between Draven and the Ring, and a number of places around her, but never much longer than a few seconds.

Terese remains close to Macda, standing at her side, while observing the fight in the arena.

Alrec moves into her strike, using his studded bracer to keep the weapon at bay. Spinning into her center, he tries to strike but fails and is forced to step back to safety. His blade raising to match her aggression. "Very well."

Lisebet waves at Terese and at Talwyn as she spies them, settled at the bar for now, along with Elsbetta. Sparte too gets a wave and a smile.

Nova back pats Flop and then is pointing up toward the the raised seating while merrily speaking with Donnella and Helena before then going back to back pats for the soulful hound who is being lavished in pets from all three women.

Skapti gives a simple nod and a wave to Viveka from where he was sat at his table with Caspian, returning the woman's greeting.

Lethe has left the ringside great table.

Alessia's blade makes no contact and she winces at Alrec's counter attack, taking a few steps back once again to recover herself from the hit.

Lucita is overheard praising Juliana.

There is pattern to his strikes; he pulls back and then hits, like a snakebite. He pushes for an attack when Alessia misses, flicking the weapon away with a swing of his scimitar and striking at her chest with the flat of his feet and using that to dance back and challenge her next strike.

Talwyn acknowledges Lisebet's wave with a flourish of one wooden drumstick, smiling back in her direction.

3 Tyde Houseguard leaves, following Lethe.

Alessia makes an attempt to strike the man's arm, though is unable to make contact. She does manage to dodge his counterstrike, taking a few steps back for distance yet again.

Still shaking on land, Alrec stumbles for a bit. His strikes unable to get past her defenses. "The blade of death." He remarks with a chuckle.

Caspian raises his voice, "Again, we're looking for one more fighter. Anyone want to take the opportunity?

Merek says, "Sure!"

"More a lover than a fighter, in true, but no doubt there's plenty of fine folk who'd stand and be counted!" Berto calls out toward Caspian with a grin. "I'd say that I was sorry of it, but that'd make me a liar!"

Sparte lifts his hands to clap for Merek when he volunteers. "Sir Merek! Huzzah!"

Terese offers a friendly wave to Lisebet and Elsbetta

Elsbetta waves back - happy to see a familiar face.

Reese cheers when the fight comes to an end. "Well fought!" She calls out. She then has a smile for them both.

Donella pours with her own hands drinks for her ringside table, half an eye on the

Alessia attempts another strike, aiming for his chest this time. Missing, she doesn't manage to block his attack in time, his blade sending her reeling backwards.

There is a dance between the two that Alrec maintains. Chipping and chipping away that eventually, he breaks through and sidesteps what attack comes his way, turning and bringing his blade up and across with one wrist, the other flailing in front of him to keep the glaive away.

Valencia nearly rises in her seat as the fight continues, her eyes to the sands bright and wide as the combatants skills are presented full force. "Bravo!" she cheers along side of Reese. "Bravo!"

Alessia, now at a disadvantage attempts one more strike, slightly more guarded this time.

A growl leaves Alrec as he slides away from the glaive, taking a slash. His feet shift in place but he doesn't strike, "Do we continue this?" He says to Alessia.

Caspian is overheard praising Golden hart: Sip 'n Spar is always a fun event!

Rowenova shouts from nearby, "FIGHT LIKE THE PIRATE AND THE SPY!"

Caspian is overheard praising Valencia: A great hostess!

Alessia straightens at his hesitation, grip loosening as she takes a few steps back. "I know how this will end. But I don't like leaving things unfinished." She chuckles lightly.

Lore has left the ringside great table.

3 Tyde Houseguard arrives, following Lethe.

Lore has joined the corner table.

Lisebet is overheard praising Golden hart.

Berto is overheard praising Golden hart.

Berto is overheard praising Valencia.

Suddenly bouncing up to his feet, Draven darts towards the door, waving his happy, wild wave over at Nova, Lucita and Valencia as he goes!

Draven has left the raised seating.

Lisebet is overheard praising Valencia.

Elsbetta is overheard praising Valencia.

Alrec shakes his head to Alessia, "No, you do not. Let's give them a show." Alrec remarks to her, charging her front with his attack.

Donella is overheard praising Caspian: A winning game master!

Lethe has joined the ringside table.

Elsbetta is overheard praising Golden hart.

Perking up when Draven waves goodbye, Nova waves goodbye with much energy then settles back with her drink in hand to chat to those at the ringside table.

Alessia checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 40, rolling 16 higher.

Alessia remains capable of fighting.

Valencia is overheard praising Caspian: A fine Sergeant at Arms and Master of the Sands. I thank him.

Alrec is overheard praising Valencia.

Amorria sits up a bit straighter to get a better view of the ring, looking over a few people just slightly in the way and spreading back into a broader grin at the fight.

Valencia is overheard praising Alrec: A demon with a blade and a fine first match. I knew he was clever and his tongue was quick, but I did not know how talented he was. I am excited to see more of his skills on sand.

Alessia checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 65, rolling 8 lower.

Alessia checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 32, rolling 36 higher.

Alessia remains alive, but close to death.

Alessia is incapacitated and falls unconscious.

Valencia is overheard praising Alessia: Beautiful and so talented with glaive. I should wish to be so skilled and accomplished. An excellent first match.

Lisebet is overheard praising Alessia: Well fought!

Alrec slips in and out of Alessia's reach, striking once or twice with his blade and body, bodychecking her with a hard ram and stepping back to reassume his stance.

Lisebet is overheard praising Alrec: well fought!

Elsbetta is overheard praising Alessia.

Marius, 1 House Corvini Guard arrive, following Giulio.

Elsbetta is overheard praising Alrec.

Caspian rises to his feet, clapping, calling out, "Good show! Good show! Next fight is Princess Terese, wielding a steel sword, verses Sir Merek, wielding a diamondplate sword. Good luck you two!" He calls out to them.

Amorria is overheard praising Alessia: This is a woman who fights well and simply refuses to go down. I can admire that.

Alrec has left the ring of valor.

Amorria is overheard praising Alrec: Well fought, and a good match to watch. He put on a very good show.

Alessia, growing more and more worn out by Alrec's attacks, decides to make one final attempt with her blade. Unsuccesful, her opponent's blade sends her falling backwards, struggling to rise from the impact of the blow. "Well fought, goodman." She manages to say, trying to catch her breath.

Valencia's cheeks turn pink at Sparte's praise and she lowers her eyes, though she seems very flattered. "You are far to kind, missere," she smiles shyly as the crowd erupts into cheers for the combatants. The little vixen looks up and smiles, her cheers joining the crowds, "Well fought! Bravo!"

Macda claps loudly as Caspian announces Terese. She offers the princess, "I'd lend the hammer if you could use it. Don't get too dented up."

Alrec bows profoundly to Alessia, "Thank you. It has been a long time since I have dueled. I appreciate you letting me fight you." Saying as he grabs something to drink by the arena. His eyes look away to the patrons, grinning and nodding approvingly. "We drew a good crowd."

Lisebet cheers for the combatants, not picking sides, though when she hears the next match, she calls, "Good luck, Princess Terese!" Hey, she knows Terese, but not Merek.

Lucita cheers for both opponants. Well fought!

Valencia has left the ringside great table.

Theodoric has left the ringside great table.

Carmichael Ulbran leaves, following Theodoric.

Lizette, a pretty buxom barmaid, 1 Ulbran Thug, Theodoric leave, following Valencia.

Amorria jumps up and cheers along with the rest of the people on either side, excitedly clapping.

Merek applauds as he watches the others, seeming to wait for the time being while he does.

Carmichael Ulbran arrives, following Theodoric.

Lizette, a pretty buxom barmaid, 1 Ulbran Thug, Theodoric arrive, following Valencia.

Valencia has joined the ringside great table.

Berto sits at the Great Ringside Table, bringing together his hands in rapid applause for the fighting that just ended.

Terese proceeds to the sands, with a smile to Macda and Talwyn as she leaves them. Once upon the sands, she draws her blade from its scabbard, with a greeting to Merek. She smiles up to Lisebet and Elsbetta as well from the sands, waving with one hand.

Elsbetta is overheard praising Terese.

Alrec undoes the fighting shorts he is using as his banner and waves it for all the fans.

Alessia steadily rises, placing her glaive in it's sheathe and removing her barbute. "No, thank you." She smiles at the man before waving to the crowd, leaving the ring so the next combatants can take their place.

The slender figure of the Corvini count makes his way into the Arena space, trailed, as always, by his manservant Marius. One corner of his mouth twists in a faint smile and he inclines his head towards those he knows. There is a flit of his fingers, towards the bar and Marius meanders off in that direction, acquiring his lord some brandy. He claps, hands coming together, offering a tilt of his head towards Alessia. "Cousin," he says, grinning, before making his way towards the ringside great table.

Giulio has joined the ringside great table.

Terese wields Dragon's Dawn, a steel longsword.

Terese has joined the ring of valor.

Lucita has left the ringside great table.

Talwyn: claps his hands with aplomb for both initial combatants, then heartily cheers for his sister Terese as she gains the ring.

Reese smiles over to Alrec. "You did very well. I am glad I saw you fight." She say stoward him. She then waves to Merek. "Oh, Merek, hi, ince to see you again." She greets.

Alessia has left the ring of valor.

Lucita gives a little wave to friends and acquaintences before she steps out.

Micana leaves, following Lucita.

Merek waves a bit towards Reese as he smiles.

Alessia has joined the ringside great table.

Alrec smiles, presenting Reese with a playful grin and bow of his head, "Thank you, your highness, and I am glad I could entertain." He reaches for some wine and gulps down his cup.

Alessia seems well on her way to the bar until her cousin's entrance catches her attention. "Giulio." She smiles, approaching him in the ringside table. "I didn't know you'd be here. Do you usually go to these?"

Alrec looks up to the seating, catching Amorria up there alone. He waves to her and motions to the bar at the ringside great table.

"Periodically," Giulio says, his tone vaguely sardonic. As he answers, Marius returns to hand Giulio a glass. Lore has it tilted her way, before he gestures to one of the other, unclaimed seats at the table, one leg crossing over the other in the process.

Lore lifts her own glass in Giulio's direction before turning back to her table companions with a smile.

A messenger arrives and whispers in Elsbetta's ear. With a smile to her sister she rises and don's her cloak. She looks to the arena wishing Princess Terese good luck with a wave and heads to the door.

Elsbetta has left the bar.

Amorria looks down toward Alrec and raises her brows, taking a moment before she actually finds herself rising from her seat and trotting down toward the bar. She moves past and inbetween the crowds and tripping over someones foot and then knocking into someone else and offering an apologetic smile before awkwardly backing up the rest of the way.

Lisebet smiles and waves to Elsbetta as she takes her leave. Lisebet then sips her drink lazily. She moves over closer to the railing so she can better watch the sparring.

Amorria has left the raised seating.

Amorria has joined the bar.

Alrec has joined the bar.

Alrec walks over to the bar, joining Amorria and ordering the sponsors' whiskey.

Alrec looks around, "Where's the bookie?!" He shouts, "I want to gamble my silver."

Lore turns and points up towards the rafters, "He's up there with a pail of ale!"

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

Reese smiles to all gathered here and then quietly slips out.

Reese has left the ringside great table.

1 Grayson House Guards, Peaches, a lovely white war filly with a peach saddle, Deliverance, an albino falcon, Stormy, a silvery gray hunting hound, Rascal, a hyper terrier, Rosalie, a lady in waiting leave, following Reese.

Merek walks to the ring while he shifts his cloak about him with hood up, and draws out his weapon as he places some material upon it so it doesn't hit as rough while he does. He settles a bit into a stance.

Waldemai calls down, "Who much, on who? Fast...The fight's about to start." His bucket isn't quite empty yet.

Alrec says, "2000 on Merek!"

Waldemai calls, "You're on!" A losing bet is better than no bet at all!

Macda says in Nox'alfar, "2000 on Terese then! Even it up!"

Macda says "2000 on Terese then! Even it up!"

Calandra gets heart of sapphire silver necklace from a wooden jewelry box covered in tooled leather.

Calandra gets pink opal calla-lily drop earrings from a wooden jewelry box covered in tooled leather.

Calandra gets emerald tipped golden chain from a wooden jewelry box covered in tooled leather.

Merek wields Torean Nightsong.

The little vixen smiles gently to Alrec and then up to Waldemai as the bets are made. The smile blossoms even more as Waldemai enthusiastically accepts and then Macda cheerfully adds to the wagering. "I think this might be a rather rich wager," Valencai nods playfully. "Will you accept both, Admiral?" she queries with a little cant of her head.

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

Alrec points to Waldemai, smiling at the accepted bet. He smiles to Macda, dipping his head politely and approaches her, whispering with a drink in his hand.

Merek lifts up his sword, and shifts forward to swing it towards Terese with a shift of his foot with his stance. It seems like an exchange of hits for the most part.

Calandra rises from the table gracefully, smiling to all present, delivering a curtsey that is low and respectful. "Good evening, all, and thank you, Princess Valencia, for all your good work here. I'll be in touch soon about an event?" To Theodoric, the Whisper adds, "And you, Master Landlord, about the party." There's a dimpled grin that is not altogether innocent before the Nightingale slips away.

Calandra has left the ringside great table.

Serenade, a lovely nightingale leaves, following Calandra.

Terese charges down merek, the blades clash and both take a good hit, pushing each other back and Terese circles about Merek looking for an opening.

Donella wears a secret sort of smile upon her face, and looks at that moment, almost contented.

Merek leans back as he finds a swing come to him, then it glances from his armor, even as his also does the same with Terese's armor. He twirls about the weapon as he shifts his stance.

Alrec has left the bar.

Valencia bids Calandra a fond farewell and settles once more to watch the matches, her large dark eyes gleaming in the firelit arena as the room hums and bustles with activity. A little look to the rafters makes her smile and for a moment she looks to the ladder as if considering climbing up to the rafters to enjoy the view of the ring from some of the best seats in the house.

Terese resumes her stance, her attention upon Merek, readying herself for the next pass.

Merek shifts up his weapon then moves forward, while he striks at Terese. It hits but the woman's armor takes that. He also takes a glancing hit which causes him to shift back a bit as he nods.

Lethe has left the ringside table.

3 Tyde Houseguard leaves, following Lethe.

Terese nods to Merek, shifting slightly as she attacks him again, pressing on what she views to be her advantage

Merek shifts so that he can use the advantage of the woman's forward move to strike. It would seem that taking that advantage means he is able to dodge with the weapon coming around as he twirls the sword.

Terese frowns slightly, as Merek strikes her, throwing her attack off line and causing her to miss. She resets her stance and makes another pass.

Taking a small swallow of his brandy, Giulio looks from Merek to Terese, before grinning to Alessia. "Well, there is that," he says, regarding the fight. There's a glance towards Alrec and a nod to where he sits with Alessia. "Messire Magaldi, would you do me the honor of joining us?" There's a single lofted brow, as if in question.

Alrec smiles to Macda, bowing politely, "If you will excuse me, your highness, I will see you at the end of this fight. Good luck." He smiles and walks away, joining Giulio at the bar, "Count! How are you?"

Alrec has joined the bar.

Alrec has left the bar.

Merek shifts forward so that he can bring his sword about and manages to hit glancing upon Terese. She comes back with hers, though it does quite little in the way of managing to strike him true, as his armor takes a lot of the hit.

Alrec has joined the ringside great table.

Donella is overheard praising Valencia: The consummate hostess.

Giulio is overheard praising Alrec: Well fought!

Donella has left the ringside table.

3 Last Watch Sentries leaves, following Donella.

Macda nods to Alrec as he offers his good wishes, smiling as he finds the Count seated nearby.

Lisebet is overheard praising Terese.

Lisebet is overheard praising Merek.

Terese accepts the scratch that Merek deals in order to score one of her own. It looks like Merek may have the better of the exchange, but not by much.

Giulio is overheard praising Alessia: Ah, my honored cousin! Always such a pleasure to see her dance.

Alrec motions for Amorria to join them at the big table as he moves between the bar and the table to get his whiskey.

Merek trades up with another exchange, and neither seem to manage to get through the other's armor. The male shifts so he can take a position and relaxes his stance a bit.

"I think I'm going to turn in," says Caspian after a moment, leaning in to plant a kiss upon Lore's lips. "It was nice to meet you, Skapti," he greets the man with a two fingered salute.

Terese resets, the two fighters having missed their strikes. Terese readies for another attack, bringing her blade in front of her once more

Skapti gives a nod to Caspian as the man arose from their table. "And you, Caspian. Have a nice walk home, aye?"

Merek exchanges just like the previous hit, as he takes a moment to position and walk around Terese as he does, the sword lifted up while he draws forth his shield to place his weapon towards the place above it.

Amorria smiles apologetically to Isebet before moving closer to the table, grabbing a shot and downing it on the way over by Alrec.

Amorria has left the bar.

Amorria has joined the ringside great table.

Lisebet inclines her head to Amorria, and then gets another drink before getting to her feet, to watch the match more closely.

The little princess nods her thanks to Caspian as he suddenly declares his departure. "Thank you for helping to lead the fights, Missere Grandmaster. It was lovely to be able to see you work," Valencia nods warmly to both Caspian and then Lore. "A sweet night to you, yes?" she offers with a warm nod.

Lisebet has left the bar.

Ramona - A Farshaw House Guard, Bigsby leave, following Lisebet.

Returning the kiss, Lore smiles up at Caspian, "I'll see you at home."

Helena has left the ringside table.

Ramona - A Farshaw House Guard, Bigsby arrive, following Lisebet.

Terese makes another strike, aiming high, and the two fighters exchange inconsequential blows.

"I am most well," Giulio replies, one corner of his lips rising in a faint smile. "And yourself? I do apologize if my response was, alas, less useful. But, there is a great deal of work on several projects I am looking into for Iasu -- so, matters are more complicated." As Caspian moves to depart, he slowly inclines his head in the man's direction. "Grandmaster," he says, in acknowledgement, glass raised in his direction.

Viveka has left the ringside table.

Caspian has left the corner table.

Anya, the cool as an ice cube Champion apprentice, Renn, the mousy, scholarly brunette leave, following Caspian.

Helena heads for the exit, giving a quick wave to Valencia as she passes the princess-hostess, and a nod and smile for Caspian. "Not robes," she says with smirk before slipping out of the doors.

2 Redrain Guards leaves, following Helena.

Viveka leaves the ringside table, and heads toward where Skapti was sitting. Taking a seat at his table.

Viveka has joined the corner table.

Rowenova has left the ringside table.

Rowenova has joined the upper rafters.

Nova hops up and with Sir Flop, they head up into those rafters above there and peek in on Waldemai with a slight grin. Well, the human being does so while the Sir Flop hangs out where he can.

Talwyn is overheard praising Terese: For an excellent martial display.

Merek and Terese seem to exchange hits back and forth, some hitting armors while others seem to stike wild. It seems though that Merek does manage an actual hit as he shifts his stance.

Terese launches a flurry of blows, none of which find a good mark, the same can be said of her opponent, who makes a scoring strike in the last moment. Terese seems unmoved by the damage inflicted though, and prepares another set of attacks

Merek leans back from the strikes, then he moves forward to work his way into Terese's guarding, and manags to hit her with a strike that grazes her. He then shifts his shield up while he lifts his weapon, and places off the defensive to the side so he has his sword he can focus with. He lifts that up in a martial style while he watches.

Lore has left the corner table.

Wilhelm slips in to speak into Sparte's ear, prompting him to rise up and say some farewells before the duo turn to leave with urgent steps.

Sparte has left the ringside great table.

Dame Tommelisa Thistlefur, Wilhelm the Iron Messenger leave, following Sparte.

Merek checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 30, rolling 24 higher.

Merek remains capable of fighting.

Macda cheers for Terese, "That's it! Blood in the sand!"

Berto has left the ringside great table.

With more exchange, it would seem that Merek doesn't have his advantage, but he stands while he keeps on fighting with Terese. His blade seems to dance with him while he moves.

Terese seems to weather out the better for the moment, as the exchances continue and her military training and conditioning serves her well.

Alrec says, "Bullshit! If he can stand, he can fight!"

Merek checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 32, rolling 28 higher.

Merek remains capable of fighting.

Lisebet winces when she spies that blow that hits Terese, but she continues to watch with a neutral and calm expression on her face. Her gaze goes over towards Alrec at his shout out, a thoughtful look crossing her face briefly before she turns her attention back to the ring and the sparring match.

Valenica returns her attention to the ring, starting slighlty as Alrec calls out. Another smile finds her face as the crowd cheers wildly and becomes more raucous still. She winces a Merek is nearly felled by Terese's blow and gasps, sitting up a little straighter still.

Macda stands as the fight continues and Merek keeps his feet. She shouts over the noise but not to Alrec directly. "Until he can't! Kicks his legs from under him!" The brawler seems sure that's the way to go for a lady in full plate.

Talwyn pounds his fist into the table and shouts an encouraging cheer, voice alight with pride, then claps Macda on the shoulder jovially. After a moment, he leans back and minutely adjusts the fall of his hair, clearing his throat and restoring his temporarily forfeited equanimity.

Merek checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 35, rolling 85 higher.

Merek remains capable of fighting.

Alrec laughs and shouts to the fighter he bet, "Weave, weave, weave!"

Merek keeps on taking hits but somehow keeps standing also. He lifts up his sword, as he focuses. He then shifts that forward so that he can move towards Terese. Knowing that he can not take as many hits, he changes to the complete offensive as he comes around with his flurry.

Merek checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 43, rolling 53 higher.

Merek remains capable of fighting.

Terese checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 69, rolling 13 lower.

Terese has rolled a critical success!
Terese checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 35, rolling 150 higher.

Terese remains alive, but close to death.

Terese is incapacitated and falls unconscious.

Alrec says, "YES!"

Lisebet's gaze goes to Talwyn and Macda at their cheering as well, amusement flaring briefly on her face. But she turns to watch the rest of the fight.

Alrec climbs on a table, roaring and cheering!

Giulio is overheard praising Terese: 4,Well fought, a true examplar of Valardin will.

Valencia is overheard praising Merek: Tenacious and remarkable. Well fought!

Alrec glances over to Macda, shaking his head in disbelief, "What a fight?!"

Giulio is overheard praising Merek: Well fought, sir Knight.

Waldemai sends down a reasonably heavy pouch of silver. "Can't win them all," he says. "But you can't lose them all, too. 'Night, all!" He climbs down from the rafters and heads out into the cold that he's lit up too well to notice.

Waldemai has left the upper rafters.

Rowenova has left the upper rafters.

Macda pats Talwyn on the shoulder in return of the gesture. As she stands, her attention is cast down the table to Alrec. "She nearly had him. I'm happy with it. Good show!" She then raises a silver flask to Alrec with a nod.

Valencia is overheard praising Terese: Beautiful with a blade! Bravo!

Merek is overheard praising Terese: Well fought!

Merek is overheard praising Valencia: Great Host!

Merek is overheard praising Caspian: Great Host!

Talwyn is overheard praising Valencia.

Merek is overheard praising Golden hart: Great Charity!

Merril, an Assistant Page, 3 Bisland pride guards arrive, following Lailah.

Talwyn is overheard praising Merek: Snatching victory from the jaws of defeat!

Alrec steps down, bowing his head to Macda as he takes the silver flask, sipping from her whiskey, "Nearly is not enough." He hands her the silver flask back, savoring the taste and sending silver back to the fighter.

Rowenova has joined the ringside great table.

"Well fought," Giulio calls out, raising his glass in the direction of the fighters, before setting it aside. His hands come together in a sharp little clap. "Well fought indeed," he says, nodding to Merek and Terese.

The crowd goes wild as Sir Merek manages to rise up again and again. Without warning, the tides turn and the formidable princess falters. As Alrec jumps upon the table, the entire crowd rises to their feet and cheers wildly for both the combatants. Valencia forgets herself and rises, too, nearly joining Alrec on the table, her voice carrying clear and loud with a cheer so very undignified it makes her blush.

Talwyn agrees, "Aye, me as well, a thrilling conclusion all told."

Alessia stands, raising her glass at the fighters. "Well fought!" She shouts before draining the glass and sitting back down to refill.

Merek sheaths back his sword, and walks over to Terese to offer a hand, while he sighs, "Well fought, thank you for the match," he offers, with a smile as he tries to relax from the combat. He checks up the silver and ponders, also taking up some wine to drink as he watches from under his hood also.

Lailah had meant to come earlier, but the weather was a problem. Nonetheless, she's come. Call it fashionably late. "Looks like I missed the excitement."

Berto is overheard praising Ilinca.

Berto is overheard praising Giulio.

Merek says, "l"

Dahlia, a confident red and white corgi puppy, Winter, a juvenile Oakhaven bloodhound arrive, following Skye.

Terese nods to Merek, "Well fought." She gathers herself up from the arena, to allow the next fighters to start, she grins ruefully to Macda as she approaches the other princess, "Sorry about the loss. Quite a close match."

Terese has left the ring of valor.

Lisebet cheers for both combatants, and then she finishes her drink, setting it on a tray. "Well fought," she calls out, before she offers a curtsey towards various and sundry royalty. "With that, I must take my leave. Thank you for the hospitality, Princess Valencia." She waves next, a friendly smile and then she slips off towards the exit.

Rising, Alessia lifts her glaive and takes her bottle before looking around the table. "Well met, all of you." Her gaze settles on Alrec. "I thank you again for a tough fight." Offering Valencia a curtsy, she smiles at Giulio. "Hopefully I'll see you during the week, cousin." And with that she takes her leave.

Alrec nods and raises his drink, "Thank you."

Macda checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 14 higher.

Skye arrives late to the party, taking a moment to step in and get her bearings to see what event is happening in the arena. Then she'll look around to see if there is anyone there that she recognizes. She gives a shy smile to Lisebet and Alessia as they pases her while they exit.

"I thank you for coming, my darling and to you as well, my lady," Valencia smiles to Lisebet and Alessia as they prepare to depart. "I will see you again soon I hope," she invites with a warm smile. The crowd simmers and the sands clear once more. The little vixen looks thoughtful. "Would anyone be willing to join me in a little contest?" she asks with an impish smile.

Macda smiles widely to Terese. "Oh it was wonderful. You almost got up again that last time. Sparring all night in the courtyard isn't for nothing. Excuse me a moment." She turns then and tosses a coin purse at Alrec. "You owe me a drink, and I won't forget."

Alessia has left the ringside great table.

Alrec raises his hand, "Me." He says, standing up from the table and slamming back his whiskey.

Ramona - A Farshaw House Guard, Bigsby leave, following Lisebet.

Taking note of Skye, Giulio tilts his head in the Baroness's direction. "Baroness Blackwater. I do hope you are well tonight?" There's a smile and a bow of his head in the direction of his departing cousin. "Be well," he offers, before glancing towards Valencia. "It would depend on the nature of the contest -- and the reward, of course." Mercenary? Giulio? Never.

Valencia has left the ringside great table.

Carmichael Ulbran leaves, following Theodoric.

Lizette, a pretty buxom barmaid, 1 Ulbran Thug, Theodoric leave, following Valencia.

Alrec takes the silver, bowing and whispering his respects to the princess.

Carmichael Ulbran arrives, following Theodoric.

Lizette, a pretty buxom barmaid, 1 Ulbran Thug, Theodoric arrive, following Valencia.

Valencia offers a smile Alrec and Giulio's way. "I am no match in battle, my lords, but perhaps I might offer some little challenge in the skill of throwing blades? If you would have me in your company, sirs?" she invites with a little smile that dances in her eyes. "Would you join me upon sands?"

All those S-named folk are beckoned over toward the great, ringside table. "Baroness Skye. Hey you up at the Corner table!" Nova motions over this way!

Alrec excuses himself from Macda, "Excuse me." And turns to follow Valencia into the sands.

Alrec has left the ringside great table.

Alrec has joined the ring of valor.

Modi stands up slowly. "It's been a pleasant evening and a pleasant first experience with the Hart. Good evening." With that, the prodigal turns to leave.

Valencia has joined the ring of valor.

Modi has left the ringside great table.

Skye gives a sweet smile to Giulio as he greets her, "Oh yes, I am well enough Count Giulio." She makes a motion to the center ring, "What game or contest are they putting on next?" Since she's just arrived and is getting her bearings, "I'm afraid my duties kept me away until now." She then gets another wave of encouragement from Nova and starts to make her way to the ringside great table to find a seat.

Skye has joined the ringside great table.

Macda gazing up at Terese and Talwyn with a chuckle as the man leaves to go fight. "So, Thistleton will mend the suit by morning, just leave it with him. And I'm nearly on my last drop before I drop. You lot staying a bit longer?"

"Mmm, I shall pass, your Highness. My talents with the blade... are well less than laughable," Giulio replies to Valencia, lips pursing in amusement, before nodding to Skye as she joins. Then, he glances to Terese. "Well fought, in the by and by. The trainers and talents of the Knights of the Oathlands are most excellent."

Berto has joined the ringside great table.

Rowenova has left the ringside great table.

Sir Floppington, the soulful hound have been dismissed.

Sir Floppington, the soulful hound have been dismissed.

Sir Floppington, the soulful hound have been dismissed.

Rowenova has joined the ringside great table.

The sands are cleared and a fine mesh netting is lifted about the ring as Alrec and Valencia (and any others who wish to join the contest are invited onto the sands. Valencia offers Alrec a slight smile and a respectful curtsy, "I wish you luck, sir. I shall be gentle with you," she teases playfully as she turns to eye the target. Would you care to go first?"

Macda nods to Giulio in agreement, pulling back on her coat to button up.

"I ought not, the night does wane." Talwyn answers Macda, after waving a polite greeting to Skye as she finds a seat. "Besides, the privilege of watching Terese in such stirring contest makes for a fitting conclusion."

Alrec laughs, grabbing his knives and setting up for the throw, "Please."

Alrec checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 20 higher.

Valenciaoffers a polite incline of head only to blush madly at something said. The little vixen coughs gently and stands back as Alrec takes aim.

Alrec checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 21 higher.

Alrec checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 31 higher.

Lailah walks towards the knife throwing lines and considers, "I'll take part so long as people promise to steer clear when I try my throws." She announces.

Valencia has rolled a critical success!
Valencia checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 67 higher.

Valencia checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 18 higher.

Valencia checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 23 higher.

Lailah checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 1 higher.

Lailah checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 2 lower.

Lailah checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 1 lower.

Talwyn stands from the table and bows a general goodbye, along with a stylish flourish of one arm, the other remaining primly pressed behind his back. "A fine and animated evening, alas I must rest, be well, all."

Rowenova suddenly flees, "Be back soon!" she calls out with a wave goodbye!

Rowenova has left the ringside great table.

Sir Floppington, the soulful hound leaves, following Rowenova.

Alrec drops behind cover, hiding from the rogue knives.

Talwyn is overheard praising Valencia: Thank you for hosting!

Macda nods after a long distraction of knife throwing to Talwyn. "Alright then, I'll escort you wimps back to the ward." To the table she excuses herself, "Good rest of the afternoon to you all."

Macda has left the ringside great table.

a small twilit kingsnake, Terese leave, following Macda.

Alrec is watched carefully, the rogue's talents with blades well known already. She holds her breath as he meets his mark. The little vixen nods warmly to Lailah as she takes up the contest as well. She stands beside her as she makes the first throw. Upon the second, the little princess steps politely back, though she cheers encouragingly. The third throw is given a blink, but receives another cheer.

Talwyn has left the ringside great table.

Amorria blinks a bit at the throws, shifting a bit from one foot to the other as she watches, attention half paid.

Alrec checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 20, rolling 34 higher.

Alrec has rolled a critical success!
Alrec checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 20, rolling 70 higher.

Alrec checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 20, rolling 30 higher.

Lailah takes careful aim and throws the knives with neither grace nor skill. Still, she manages to hit the board once. So that is sure something better than nothing.

Lailah checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 20, rolling 9 lower.

Lailah has rolled a critical success!
Lailah checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 20, rolling 2 higher.

Lailah checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 20, rolling 6 lower.

Alrec raises a brow at Valencia's masterful throws but when it is his turn to step up and throw, he raises from behind the wall and throws his three knives.

Alrec is masterful as always, Lailah's throws are still a little wild. Valencia gives the target a long look and takes aim.

Valencia checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 20, rolling 5 higher.

Valencia checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 20, rolling 23 higher.

Valencia checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 20, rolling 23 higher.

Skapti has left the corner table.

Viveka has left the corner table.

Alrec checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 17 higher.

Alrec checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 37 higher.

Alrec has rolled a critical success!
Alrec checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 21 higher.

At some point during the knife throwing exhibition, Skapti would stand from his table and head out, giving the room a wave!

Lailah checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 17 lower.

Lailah checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 6 lower.

Lailah checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 15 lower.

Lailah clearly has trouble as the difficulty of the throws gets ramped up, and by now her throws aren't even reach the board, she sighs and steps back. "That went better than I expected." She comments, clearly not disappointed.

Sir Floppington, the soulful hound arrives, following Rowenova.

Rowenova has joined the ringside great table.

Scout Rowenova and Sir Floppington bound back into the general area then to the great table by the fighting ring where they were before. "Back!"

Alrec applauds Lailah's effort, her second throw hitting the mark with grace, even when her other two miss their mark. He smirks to Valencia, throwing his knives to with panache, always very competitive. "It is all in the wrist, my lady. Like that one throw you had." He steps up again and makes his best effort, focused on winning.

Valencia nods in agreement. "It is simply a matter of practice and luck," the little vixen smiles to Lailah. "Mostly luck for me, though at this rate, ill luck at present," she notes as Alrec. There is a little pause and a wicked gleam find the little princess' features. "All in your wrist?" she asks innocently. "Ah, that explains things," she smiles cheerfully as she moves to try to keep the Admiral from winning too easily. Tucking a tendril of dark hair behind her ear, the little princess is all business now.

Valencia checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 1 higher.

Valencia checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 10 higher.

Valencia checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 1 higher.

Skye chats with those at her table as the knife throwing contest goes on. It's clear by her cheers when Valencia scores well that she's cheering for her. At first it looks like she's going to win but then Alrec takes the lead. She wrinkles her nose that her favorite lost but then claps for Alrec's win to show sportsmenship.

Amorria lets out a loud cheer as Alrec wins, shifting her attention from the conversation at the table to excitedly clap for the man.

Amongst the snow that sieges the city, Ajax's large form crosses the thresh hold to the arena proper his eyes moving to glance at the knife competition his head and shoulders seeming a bit wet perhaps from the snow removed as he entering the gaming hall proper.

Sir Floppington wags over to Ajax and looks up with those soulful eyes!

Merek checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 10 higher.

Merek checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 20 higher.

Merek checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 16 higher.

Merek checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 20, rolling 15 higher.

Merek checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 20, rolling 25 higher.

Merek checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 20, rolling 13 higher.

Merek checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 6 higher.

Merek checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 8 lower.

Merek checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 1 lower.

Merek walks up to the content and participates as well, seeming to be pretty nice at it, though he probably will not beat the others who are winning it seems. He is satisfied to participate in any case.

After having sat down, it is not long before Nova springs up but not because the wolf scout might leave again. No, this time she does so to nab ahold of a passing drink! "Thanks!" says she to the serving staff before drinking down a good swig and then piping up, "Thank you! Sorry I ran off for a moment there!"

Clapping, Giulio grins to Lailah, Valencia and Alrec. "Well thrown, all," he says, nodding to each in turn, before looking towards Rowenova. There's a brief smirk and a tilt of his head in her direction, one eyelid shivering in a wink. Casually, he leans in to whisper something to the woman, before he returns to his conversation with those at the table.

"Ah, hello, Flop." Ajax offers towards the dog, as he starts his trudge over in their general direction, his large form moving slow as it shakes the cold from his bones, an easy going smile formed on his features.

Valencia gives Alec a smile. "Congratulations, Admirial. You seem to be winning the day," she laughs playfully. "I bow to your prowess and am very much humbled, sir," she offers with a gracious curtsy to the winner of the match before turning to offer a gracious and grateful smile to Skye for the cheers of confidence, looking only mildly unhappy to disappoint the lady.

Rowenova briefly whispers to Guilio back with a slight shake of her noggin before looking to Amorria with a smile, "It does get pretty busy!" Then to the Baroness Skye, "Good to see you, and thank you for coming over!" She waves!

Alrec laughs, bowing politely to the princess, "Thank you, your highness, for hosting and giving me an opportunity in your arena." He turns to the others, "Thank you. Great night."

Gilroy wanders in from the snow, hands in his pockets, expression only mildly irritated with the weather. He looks around as do many who are at the Hart for their first time and when he sees the bar he heads that way, though he slows when he sees that there is a contest of some sort happening. "Huh. What /are/ we doing?"

Sir Floppington follows along as if he were herding Ajax toward the group.

Rowenova says, "Farewell, Admiral!"

Skye gets up from her table and then makes her way out of the event, taking her time since sudden movements do wear her out. She gives one last wave to the host and then her companions before heading out.

Skye has left the ringside great table.

Dahlia, a confident red and white corgi puppy, Winter, a juvenile Oakhaven bloodhound leave, following Skye.

Alrec waves to the scout, "Ah, Scout Rowenova. Did you see the fight?"

Rowenova says, "I saw you do a couple fights! I was the one yelling about your book from above."

"I hope we will see you again soon, Admiral. We have a great deal to catch up on, sir," Valencia smiles as she pauses to allow Lady Lailah and Sir Merek to depart the sands first. She nods to the Admiral allowing him right of way and then follows. A bright smile is offered to Ajax as he arrives and another to Gilroy, "Welcome to my Hart, gentlemen! I'm so very glad you are here . Would you care for drink or to test skill upon sands tonight? Please join us," the little vixen invites as she rejoins the table with a thankful nod to Giulio and a little hug offered to Rowenova. "My sweetest Wolf Scout, apologies for not greeting you properly sooner," she smiles.

Alrec smiles, chuckling, "Ah, sorry, I get wrapped up in the fight sometimes."

As Ajax draws to the actual group his fingers move to scratch behind Sir Flop's ears, his head dipping as he looks around the group gathered, "I could do either or I suppose. I was just glad to make the event proper." he gives the Princess a warm smile as his fingers move to scratch the back of Flops neck.

Alrec has left the ring of valor.

Alrec has joined the ringside great table.

Nova happily hugs Valencia, "Aww, we waved at one another! Sorry it took me a good while before I got into hugging range, tho!" She wolfy snugs the vixen before letting go. Sir Floppington sits down like the Bestest Good Boy Ever, leaning back into those neck scratches and half lidding his soulful eyes.

"I think, I will bid good eve." The Count moves to rise, gesturing for Marius to follow. Those dark eyes flit towards Valencia. "As always, well done. Your little gatherings are are, without doubt, some of the most entertaining in the city." He nods to Amorria and Alrec. "Well met. Perhaps we shall speak again." Berto gets a grin and a wink.

Carmichael Ulbran leaves, following Theodoric.

Gilroy clucks his tongue and shakes his head. "I thought I saw people engaging in a throwing contest. My apologies. I think I'll have to restrict myself to watching and drinking. Two of my favorite pastimes!"

Alrec nods to the man, "I am sure we will, Count Giulio. Thank you for the support."

Giulio has left the ringside great table.

Lailah heads out of the center and approachees a random person, in this case Gilroy. "Technically I was engaged in one. I don't think I offered much in the way of competition."

Brother Chester arrives, following Jeffeth.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Rowenova before departing.

"Well, that's fine, my lady. Fighting in the sand isn't really my cup of tea, though. Nor, if I am being honest, are cups of tea." Gilroy makes his way over to the bar and orders up something brown and alcoholic and so pleasantly warming on such a chilly evening.

The little vixen settles down once more at the table. Checking to see that everyone's cups are full, she finally takes a moment to pour her own glass. A happy sip is taken and she sighs, "Thank you for such a beautiful night. I must say I cannot say how wonderful it is to have my Hart full with so many that I adore so much," she nods happily. Another smile is offered Gilroy's way, "Then please join us here and tell us about yourself, missere. I do not believe I have had the pleasure of meeting you before."

A hulking figure enters the arena, and glances about at those still gathered. Jeffeth looks to the empty sands and gives a light frown. When he speaks he raises his deep rumbling voice so that he can be heard over the din. "I would like to have an opportunity to try some more recent techniques I have been working on. I will not be using a weapon, but I would encourage anyone who would like to face me to use one, if anyone would be so willing to indulge me. I would be obliged." The Knight Commander gives a deep bow to the room, fist pressed to his chest before he wanders over towards the sands and... waits.

As Valencia speaks towards Gilroy, Ajax moves to get himself a glass his attention mostly onto the man in question as he regards him with a curious raise of his thick brows.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Rowenova before departing.

Alrec looks up to Jeffeth from his drink and stands up, "I will fight you."

As Jeffeth enters the center of the ring however Ajax's attention utterly shifts, setting his drink down his hand moving to his belt resting on the hilt of his own sword as he makes his way towards the center of the ring, "Eh, all the days to not bring my helmet."

Rowenova suddenly receives a couple messages. "I better get home, I say!" Then, she waves goodbye to all those here. "Flop, come on!" The soulful hound is instantly awake and following along after Nova. She waves goodbye to Jeffeth, though, on her way by. "Bye all!"

Ajax has joined the ring of valor.

Rowenova has left the ringside great table.

Sir Floppington, the soulful hound leaves, following Rowenova.

Ajax wields a polished steel long sword.

The large man looks to both Ajax and Alrec rising to the challenge. Jeffeth just gives a nod to both of them. "Very good. Both of you will be fine. If nothing else everyone will get a good show of you two beating me down." The big man smiles broadly as he goes to join the sands.

Valencia blinks to Jeffeth's call to arms and she turns to look to Alrec as he accepts the challenge. "New technique," the little princess echoes with a little furrow of brow. "What technique is this, Sir Jeffeth?" she asks now intrigued by such notions.

Alrec gives Ajax a side glance, nodding to the man, "If the Knight Commanded wants to get beat up, who are we to deny him?" He asks Ajax.

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

Amorria smirks a bit and simply watches as Alrec rises, she starts to make a comment but apparently decides against it as her lips press back together and an amused expression crosses her features.

Jeffeth has joined the ring of valor.

Alrec has left the ringside great table.

Alrec has joined the ring of valor.

"If what people say about em is true. Let's watch out for his everything." Ajax offers to the other man, "Ajax." he offers raising his blade up as he paces to the side of the knight commander.

Alrec nods, "Not sure what they say but I will take your lead." He responds, swinging his blade free and tracing the outer limits of Jeffeth's reach. "Alrec." He says, introducing himself.

Three men enter the ring and the crowd cheers louder than ever. Valencia offers a little smile and leans aside do speak with Amorria, her large dark eyes upon the ring.

Slowly taking his coat, and then the shirt after it. The Knight Commander is a wall of muscle, and draws no weapons against Alrec and Ajax facing off against him. Instead he draws up his fists and swallows hard. "May Gloria be honored." Jeffeth rumbles to the pair of them.

Gilroy offers the princess a half bow. "Gilroy Grayhope. Of the Lenosia Grayhopes. It is a delight to meet you. Is this your establishment?" He watches as Jeffeth and others head into the ring. "Gods. The man just can't stop showing off, can he? It's almost admirable!"

Alrec nods his head to Jeffeth, "As you said." Saying in respect before pouncing on the man.

Lailah heads to to bar herself and takes a seat next to Gilroy, despite the looks her guards give the man upon hearing his name. "Lady Lailah Bisland." She introduces herself to the man, and glances towards Jeffeth. "Should I pity the men who took him up on his challenge?"

Lailah has joined the bar.

Valencia nods to Gilroy with a warm incline of head and the offer of a delicate hand. "I am most pleased to meet you as well, Missere Grayhope," she replies brightly. "I am more of the keeper of my Hart I think, missere. This really is the Hart of Arx. I like to think in many ways it belongs to all of us, yes?" she offers back with a little smile Alrec's way. "He is rather incorrigible, yes. But if he and Missere Ajax can best Sir Jeffeth, they will both have every right to be so. He is a formidable knight to be true, yes?" she nods to Lailah for confirmation.

Valencia has left the ring of valor.

Valencia has joined the ringside great table.

Amorria mentions to Valencia and Gilroy with her eyes locked on the ring, "The way things are going it seems like they may get the best of him.."

Amongst the fierce exchange of blows between the two armed men, and the knight Commander, Ajax's movements slow slightly wincing from the blows sustained, as he keeps his sword raised fingers wrapped tightly around the hilt as he paces around the giant Commander. His brown eyes hyper focused with a wariness on the Commanders form.

Alrec bounces off Ajax attacks, coming against Jeffeth with quick cobra-like sword strikes that enter his defense as he focuses on Ajax. Alrec slashes with his blade, bringing to cut and bruise Jeffeth inside his arms.

"I am impressed," the little vixen nods to Amorria, her voice soft as she watches. "No easy task. OH!" she winces as blades flash and parry with lightning speed. "Oh, would I be so pleased if I were so formidable. "

"Maybe, maybe not. He has a fearsome reputation, though I did luck my way into a victory over the man at darts a week or so gone." Gilroy gives a quick grin and finishes his drink in one go. "Every time I see him, though, he is running shirtless through a blizzard or picking up benches filled with people or doing pull ups with entire orphanages worth of children clinging to his legs. But I suppose we all must cater to our talents."

He did ask for it after all.

The Knight Commander engages with two men, unarmed, and well about the way one would expect. While Jeffeth can land his strikes on either man at will, he is still attacking with just flesh. And he has a very hard time hurting either one of them through the armor. While he does manage to land a few solid blows on Ajax, his strikes land continuously on Alrec with little effect. And while Ajax keeps Jeffeth at bay, Alrec cuts to him, hard. Putting Jeffeth on his back foot more than once. Reeling Jeffeth brings his fists up and blinks rapidly. Remembering quickly /why/ people use weapons and not their stupid fists. "Continue." Jeffeth grunts.

Jeffeth has rolled a critical success!
Jeffeth checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 10, rolling 221 higher.

Jeffeth remains capable of fighting.

Jeffeth checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 24, rolling 79 higher.

Jeffeth remains capable of fighting.

Lailah is starting to get a little worried about the outcome of this fight, and reaches for satchel full of medical supplies. Just in case. "It seems even he has limits, though he's doing quite well considering the limits he put upon himself."

There is a pause and the little vixen looks Gilroy's way and nods gently before taking a sip of her drink. "I think perhaps if I were so strong I might do those things as well," she admits with a little smile. "Well, perhaps not all those things," she blushes as she notes some of the activities mentioned by Gilroy. "And so what are your talents and passions, sir?"

Jeffeth checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 28, rolling 63 higher.

Jeffeth remains capable of fighting.

Jeffeth checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 42, rolling 27 higher.

Jeffeth remains capable of fighting.

Jeffeth checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 68, rolling 58 higher.

Jeffeth remains capable of fighting.

Jeffeth checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 78, rolling 6 lower.

Jeffeth checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 42, rolling 37 higher.

Jeffeth remains alive, but close to death.

Jeffeth is incapacitated and falls unconscious.

Alrec steps back, shaking his head. "Wow." He stretches his arms, the muscle sore from all the hacking and slashing.

"What is he made outta." Ajax pants his hand moving to clutch his side, his eyes moving towards the knocked out Jeffeth, his gaze goes to Alrec, "Just think if he was usin' that freakin' maul he's got."

Alrec nods slowly, peering at the man like he was some sort of alien. "That sounds like a crazy good fight though."

Ajax's fist extends towards Alrec, "Good show, ser." he says, over heavy panting the man showing signs of fatigue, "Think we should holler for a healer for em?"

The large man seems determined to get through Alrec's armor, but doesn't seem to be able to do so. Each strike hitting into the leather as the man bares his teeth and swings his fists. But eventually the pair of them beat him back and continue to beat him back. Jeffeth does not go down easy but after a while they are able to wear him down, hit after hit, Jeffeth is driven back until eventually he is driven to his knees, and one hand raises up to yield. He's not breathing heavy, but the bare chested behemoth has a score of welts for his efforts. "Thank you. Both of you." Jeffeth rumbles, slowly pushing himself to his feet.

The crowd rises and cheers. Valencia gracefully rises as well offering her applause and cheers along with the other, her breath nearly stolen by the fighters in the ring. "Bravo! Well done, gentlemen! BRAVO!!!"

Alrec smiles to Ajax, nodding in approval, "Very good yourself, ser. Alrec of House Pravus if you are ever in Setarco, look for my ilk, they're hard to miss and know where the fun in the city is." He turns to Jeffeth, bowing his head, "No thank you."

Lailah is already coming over, getting out her kit and glancing to Ajex. "You're second." She tells him brusquely, then kneeling over to Jeffeth so she can take a look at his injuries. "You're a reckless fool, sir Bayweather." She says in the tone of a healer who knows that criticism will fall on deaf ears.

"Ah, I am a man of a singular drive, talents honed toward that end." Gilroy winces as Jeffeth hits the dirt and glances sidelong at Lailah to see if the apparent medic is going to go running. And then there she goes! But then Jeffeth is getting to his feet and Gilroy just says, "He certainly takes defeat with grace. I'm not sure if that's good of him, or just another sort of showing off." He considers, then adds, "I've seen that Grayson general to duels wearing only her underthings. Perhaps the two of them should date."

The big man raises one hand to the pair of them. Moving over to the edge of the ring. "Would you two care to go again?" Jeffeth then goes to slowly retrieve the warhammer leaning against the ring. Looking over to Lailah he cants his head, frowning lightly. "I am sorry if I have offended you, My Lady. My intention is not to show recklessness. Always to push myself to the limits." He glances over to Ajax and Alrec, hefting his hammer with one arm. "So. Again?"

Amorria chuckles a bit before leaning back aside to murmur to Valencia, eyes shifting to Alrec a moment.

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

"Ajax, just a simple sell-sword at yer service." Ajax dips his head towards Alrec, "An' i'll keep that in mind my friend." he shoots a look to the moving Lailah, "Of course." he nods, before looking at Jeffeth, "Of course."

With a huge grin, Alrec nods to Jeffeth, "Now you are talking."

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

Lailah takes a step back when they go again, her frown making it clear that she beliefs this to be the height of recklessness, but she doesn't stop them either, heading back for the bar and picking her drink back up.

The Hart's mercies seem happy for the help as Lady Lailah arrives with clipped precision. Valencia smiles her thanks as the woman sees to Jeffeth and Ajax. A little look offered to Gilroy and the vixen smiles again, "There are many who feel armour an encumbrance," she notes with a little nod. Eyebrows lift as Jeffeth offers invitation again. She glances to Lailah for a moment and back, settling back into her seat once more with a slight frown.

It is a go between, Ajax and Alrec as they fight Jeffeth. Alrec dances with the man with the large hammer, teasing his reach and landing a few hits until his confidence gets the best of him and Jeffeth grazes Alrec with the hammer, "Woah." He exclaims with a chuckle.

Amongst the second fight Ajax bobs and weaves trying to land a single blow on the hulking knight commander only to be in awed of his speed, and parrying ability, his brow furrowing as he breaks off a bit his hand moving to rub his left shoulder before closing into engage once more.

With a weapon in hand the match is a very different thing. Still shaking off the welts and sores delivered to him in the first match, Jeffeth moves fluidly and far quicker than he has any business doing as a man so large. The hammer is twirled and swung effortlessly to parry and swing back as the man keeps on his heels to keep both Ajax and Alrec in front of him at all times. Tagging Alrec in the shoulder, the big man gives a light nod and a smile before taking a few steps back, he's being careful, and not being too aggressive.

Valenciawatches silently now, her large dark eyes upon the ring. A quiet hush happens over the massive hall, even the rowdier guest in the rafters are silent as the match continues below.

As the clashes intensifies Ajax grows more aggressive despite the hulking Knight Commander's focus now on him, his lips even while bloodied as curled into a smile letting out a roar as a set of blows are exchanged at the break away of combat the mercenary seems much worse for wear he tilts his head to the ground spitting out a bit of blood, "Boyo, if I go down, you better finish this." the large mercenary gives a secondary roar perhaps to just amp up the crowd as he rushes back in to engage with the knight Commander.

The fight grows expanationally with every round. The playfulness from before has been overtaken by a desire to win and engaged in an aggressive bout of sword versus hammer, Alrec finds himself inside Jeffeth's reach more often than not, awarding him some gnarly bruises as he stings the knight commander feverishly with strikes of his sword. He turns to Ajax, "You won't go down. We got him." Alrec says between a snarl.

There's a loud cry let out from the huge knight as the fight starts to intensify, blows are being landed at and by all three parties. Jeffeth's brow is furrowed deeply as he goes from target to target. Briefly chasing Alrec before returning to swing the haft of his hammer at Ajax. And then back again. Jeffeth is not afraid to use his size, frequently ramming his shoulders into either man to send them off guard for a follow up strike.

Ajax checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 5, rolling 40 higher.

Ajax remains capable of fighting.

Ajax checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 56, rolling 5 lower.

Ajax checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 25, rolling 34 higher.

Ajax remains alive, but close to death.

Ajax is incapacitated and falls unconscious.

Throughout the second large exchange of fighting the good Knight commander lands a serious enough blow to bring Ajax to his knees, the man drags himself to the edge of the ring to give the two remaining combatants room to battle.

Alrec side-steps Ajax, using his fall to press harder into Jeffeth, trying to cut the man down before his hammer causes too much harm.

The fight continues to swell. Ajax does not let up in his aggression and is eventually punished for it. Sending the haft of his hammer to Ajax's gut, Jeffeth then sends his elbow to send him to his knees before quickly stepping to the side to face Alrec. Ajax gets a distracted nod in parting before Jeffeth is continuing on with Alrec. The fight is cautious both men, being careful in their strikes. Jeffeth keeps pressing in with his shoulder occasionally even letting go of his hammer to give little shoves, keeping his opponent off balance.

The crowd lets out a collective gasp as Ajax takes the brunt of Jeffeth's hammer. Valencia rises from her seat as the man is felled to his knees sending the Hart's mercies scrambling to the side to see to him. Lady Lailah is offered due respect with the lead mercy conferring with the healer in hushed tones as Alrec and jeffeth continue.

Alrec checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 11, rolling 49 higher.

Alrec remains capable of fighting.

The crushing of waves is nothing new to Alrec. If he can survive the sinking of a ship, he can survive the avalanche that is Jeffeth's hammer. He continues to press, being more careful of his strikes as fatigue begins to roll on through.

"You got this, Alrec!" Ajax calls over towards the man dancing still with the knight Commander, despite the fact he's beaten up fairly badly in his punishment for his aggressive his bare fist slams against the ground of the arena in a repeated knocking gesture as the downed mercenary gives everything he has in a cheer.

As the fight nears its end, Jeffeth starts to push his advantage. A series of lighter attacks broken up by a few very heavy body shaking blows from the haft of his hammer. He never swings the hammers head though, as to avoid permanent injury and /all that/. Though as Jeffeth starts going in on Alrec, he in turn is punished himself. Alrec unleashes a nasty blow that sends a surprised Jeffeth reeling. There's a grunt as the big man watches Alrec, starting to tire. Jeffeth hasn't seem to become short of breath just yet, so he goes on his back foot, bringing his hammer up carefully.

Alrec checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 28, rolling 39 higher.

Alrec remains capable of fighting.

Alrec checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 37, rolling 16 higher.

Alrec remains capable of fighting.

Alrec checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 56, rolling 2 lower.

Alrec checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 25, rolling 37 higher.

Alrec remains alive, but close to death.

Alrec is incapacitated and falls unconscious.

As the mercies finish with Ajax, the large man raises to his feet lumbering his way to Jeffeth as he lowers himself in a bow to the man, "Well fought, knight-commander. I only regret I wasn't able to give ya a proper challenge."

And eventually the fight comes to an end. With a sweeping swing of the haft of his hammer, Jeffeth lets out a loud grunt, when Alrec goes down. His hammer is immediately swung upwards and the hammer head swung down into the sand. The big man goes into a deep bow to the pair of them. "My thanks, to both of you." Jeffeth rumbles lowly before slowly standing. "Helps me know where to improve and where I stand. I appreciate both of your efforts." Jeffeth gives another albeit sore bow to Ajax. "It was certainly a challenge, friend. Don't worry about that."

Alrec gathers himself up, trying to catch some air. He nods in agreement to Ajax, looking to the Knight Commander, "Yeah, yeah." The admiral, a bit of a sore loser takes a seat at the closest bench, grabbing himself a drink frist.

There is dead silence as Alrec is dealt a crushing blow and then a roar of approval for all in the ring, the arena echoing with thunderous applause and the stopping of booted feet. Valencia remains standing a moment and then takes her leave from the table with a little nod, moving with a soft rustle of silks to the area as the mercies move to see to the men. "Well fought," she offers softly. "You are all alright?" she asks looking from Ajax to Jeffeth and back to Alrec with a little wince.

"Aye, nothin' a bit of whiskey can't cure." Ajax offers, a wince coming from the man as he raises his body back up, "Or a lot of whiskey."

Alrec raises his glass, "Very true." He says, slamming another glass and forcing the poor server to stand next to him for a minute as he goes down couple shots in seconds before releasing the server.

"It's to my immense satisfaction and security that I say there's very little in Aion that a good deal of whiskey cannot mend," Berto calls out from his spot at the table. He lifts his empty glass to the fighters. "Well fought!"

"In fact. Let's just drink all the whiskey." Ajax offers in an aside to Alrec, his fingers moving to pick up a glass from the server bringing it to his lips in a long drink.

Valencia smiles to Berto and then steps back to allow Lailah and the mercies to check the men over, returning to her seat once more. "An impressive fight, to be true," she nods gently letting out a long breath and reaching for her glass once more. A little nod sends more servers to ringside to see to the fighters' needs, whiskey and whatever they need offered with sweet smiles and little curtsies from the Hart's serving girls.

Eventually, placing his hammer down, Jeffeth gets himself dressed once more and giving a polite smile to both Ajax and Alrec, limps his way over to an empty table.

Jeffeth has left the ring of valor.

Jeffeth has joined the corner table.

Alrec has left the ring of valor.

Alrec has joined the ringside great table.

Ajax has left the ring of valor.

Ajax has joined the ringside great table.

"Sir Jeffeth, if it pleases, would you care to join us?" Valencia offers, a little wince finding her features as she rises to aid the man in coming to the table. "Or if you prefer to rest, we can certain come to keep company with you, as it pleases," she smiles gently.

Raising one hand in a forestalling gesture Jeffeth summons up a warm smile. "I'm alright. I thank you, though. Just going to think, for a minute."

As Ajax approaches the table with people he keeps his fingers wrapped around his glass taking a long drink he gives Berto an easy going smile, "Wisdom, my friend. A pleasure." he dips his head to the man.

The drink was exhausting Alrec and it did not help that his whole body was sore from today's event. He raises from the table with a groan and says, "I think this is when I retreat back to my ship." His gaze falls on those at the table, ending on Valencia with a smile, "Thank you for hosting such a great time. I will try to come more often to the club. It was a great experience."

The little dark eyed vixen offers a nod To Jeffeth and gracefully takes her seat once more, her gaze falling up Alrec. She offers him a gentle but warm nod and a delicate hand, "Thank you, Admiral. You have most certainly made mark on tonight's event. I hope you will return to my Hart soon," she smiles up at him once more. "You have been sorely missed, sir. You will have to come find me very soon, yes?"

Valencia claims this

"Whiskey, combat. A properly wonderful event. Gratitude, Princess." Ajax dips his head towards the woman giving her a genuine smile as he finishes off his glass of whiskey.

Merek makes his way on!

Merek also waves to the others a bit.

The little southern princess offers a warm incline of head and a gentle smile. "The pleasure is mine, truly. Thank you for gracing my Hart with your talents, sir. It was so very impressive to see," Valencia nods earnestly to Ajax, pausing to wave a fond farewell to Merek as he sets off into the storm. "I cannot wait to see what our next event brings. I truly am awed this evening," she says with a little flush of cheek. "Thank you for this."

Merek pulls on his cloak with hood up for the weather!